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
- $250
- Deadline
- 10 Mar 2018
- Level
- All
- Deadline
- 29 Jan 2021
- Level
- All
- Award
- Up to £10,000
- Deadline
- 30 Jun 2026
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Award
- Full tuition, monthly allowance, books and instructional materials, medical insurance, and travel ex
- Level
- All
| Scholarship | Award | Deadline | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 Auto Transport Annual Scholarship | $250 | 10 Mar 2018 | All |
| AberDoc Scholarship For Research Postgraduates-Aberystwyth University | — | 29 Jan 2021 | All |
| Aberystwyth University Scholarships | Up to £10,000 | 30 Jun 2026 | Undergraduate |
| The Asian Development Bank (ADB) – Japan Scholarship Program (JSP) | Full tuition, monthly allowance, books and instructional materials, medical insurance, and travel ex | — | All |
A dash means that scholarship has not published the detail.
