Commonwealth Shared Scholarships

Applications for 2026 entry are now open.

Postgraduate scholarships for applicants from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are jointly funded by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK and participating UK universities.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are intended for high-quality postgraduate students who:

  • are from a Least Developed and/or middle-income Commonwealth country
  • have not already studied for a year or more in a high-income country
  • would not otherwise afford to study in the UK
    • and
  • have the potential to enhance development of their home countries with the knowledge and skills they gain.

The CSC attracts individuals with outstanding talent and identifiable potential from all backgrounds. It supports them to become leaders and innovators when they return to their home countries. This work combines sustainable development with the UK national interest. It provides opportunities for international partnerships and collaboration.

Eligibility

There are six awards available for the 2026/27 academic year. They are available for Commonwealth Shared candidates who have applied for an eligible one-year taught postgraduate programme at the University of Bristol: 

For full eligibility requirements, visit the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships website. 

How to apply

You must apply using the Commonwealth Commission's online application system. The application will ask you how your inclusion will benefit your home country.

You will also need to apply for a place on one of the programmes before you apply for the scholarship. We can only consider scholarship applications from candidates who have:

  • applied for an eligible programme
    • and
  • have a valid University of Bristol student ID.

Deadline

The deadline to apply for September 2026 entry is 4 pm (UK time) on Tuesday 9 December 2025.

Assessment process

We will inform nominated and reserve candidates in Spring 2026.

Further details

Financial assistance

Commonwealth Shared Scholarships cover:

  • approved tuition fees
  • maintenance/living cost stipend (living allowance)
  • approved airfare from the scholar's home country to the UK and return at the end of the award
  • thesis grant
  • study travel grant (if applicable)
  • warm clothing allowance
  • a contribution towards the cost of a mandatory tuberculosis (TB) test, where required for visa application
  • family allowances (if applicable).

More information

Visit the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships website to find out more about:

  • the financial help provided
  • applicant eligibility
  • selection process
  • completing the application form
  • the terms and conditions.