Commonwealth PhD Scholarships 2025/26: Apply for Fully Funded Doctoral Study in the UK

The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships provide fully funded doctoral study opportunities at UK universities for graduates from eligible Commonwealth countries. The program supports high-potential researchers to undertake full-time PhD studies and conduct impactful research aligned with development priorities. Scholarships cover tuition, airfare, stipend, and related allowances, with selection through nominated channels.

Full tuition coverage, airfare to the UK and return, a monthly stipend, travel and study allowances, and family allowances where applicable.

Applicants must be citizens of, or have refugee status in, an eligible Commonwealth country (or be a British Protected Person), be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country, be available to start a UK PhD by September 2025, hold a first degree of at least upper second-class honours (2:1) or a lower second with relevant postgraduate qualification, not already be registered for a PhD/MPhil leading to a PhD, and demonstrate financial need.

Applications must be submitted through the CSC online application system via designated nominators (national agencies, selected universities or NGOs). Shortlisted candidates are forwarded to the CSC by December 2024.