Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships support students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue full-time doctoral study at a university in the United Kingdom. Funded by the UK Department for Internationa…
Awarded by Commonwealth PhD.
About this Scholarship
The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships support students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue full-time doctoral study at a university in the United Kingdom. Funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID), these scholarships aim to develop skills and knowledge for sustainable development. Scholarships are awarded under six themes: Science and technology for development; Strengthening health systems and capacity; Promoting global prosperity; Strengthening global peace, security and governance; Strengthening resilience and response to crises; and Access, inclusion and opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be citizens of, or have been granted refugee status by, an eligible Commonwealth country. They should hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) honours standard, or a second class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification. Applicants must also be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
There are no age restrictions.
How to Apply
Apply online through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s online application system before the published deadline. Register, fill in the application form, upload required documents such as academic transcripts, references, and proof of citizenship or refugee status. Ensure your chosen UK university supports your proposed research before applying.
Applications are considered by national nominating agencies in eligible countries.
Scholarship at a Glance
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships?
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The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships offers Full tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and other allowances, awarded by Commonwealth PhD.
Who is eligible for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships?
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To apply you need to meet these conditions: Applicants must be citizens of, or have been granted refugee status by, an eligible Commonwealth country. They should hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) honours standard, or a second class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification. Applicants must also be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship. There are no age restrictions.
What is the last date to apply for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships?
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Applications close on 1 December 2026. Apply before this date — late submissions are not considered.
How do I apply for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships?
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Apply in 1 steps: Apply online through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s online application system before the published deadline. Register, fill in the application form, upload required documents such as academic transcripts, references, and proof of citizenship or refugee status. Ensure your chosen UK university supports your proposed research before applying. Applications are considered by national nominating agencies in eligible countries..
Which students can apply for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships?
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This scholarship is open to all students and is run by Commonwealth PhD.
Compare with Similar Scholarships
Other scholarships of the same type, and what each one awards.
- Award
- Full Funding (tuition + living)
- Deadline
- 15 Jul 2026
- Level
- Postgraduate
- Deadline
- 1 Mar 2023
- Level
- All
- Level
- Postgraduate
- Deadline
- 15 May 2023
- Level
- All
| Scholarship | Award | Deadline | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fulbright Scholarship | Full Funding (tuition + living) | 15 Jul 2026 | Postgraduate |
| Orange Tulip Scholarship ( India ) – OTS Scholarship Scheme 2026-2027 | — | 1 Mar 2023 | All |
| Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2027-2028 | — | — | Postgraduate |
| Japanese Government MEXT Scholarships 2027 (Research Students) | — | 15 May 2023 | All |
A dash means that scholarship has not published the detail.
