The Commonwealth Distance Learning Master's Scholarships offer a unique opportunity for talented individuals from eligible low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue part-time Master's degrees at UK universities while remaining in their home countries. These scholarships are funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and aim to equip candidates with the skills needed for sustainable development.

Key Information:

• Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens of, or have refugee status in, eligible Commonwealth countries. They should be permanently residing in a developing Commonwealth country and hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) standard.

• How to Apply: Applications must be submitted through the CSC's online application system. Candidates need to secure admission to an approved Master's course at a participating UK university while applying for the scholarship.

• Deadline: The application deadline for the 2025/26 academic year is 16:00 GMT on Tuesday, 20 May 2025.

• Supporting Documents: Applicants must provide proof of citizenship, academic transcripts, and references from at least two individuals.

This is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to enhance their education and contribute to development in their home countries.

How to apply

Applications for Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships for the 2025/26 academic year are now open. The deadline for submitting an application is 16:00 GMT on Tuesday 20 May 2025. The scholarships are for study beginning in September/October 2025.

Applications to the CSC must be made using the CSC’s online application system. 

The CSC is unable to accept any applications or documentation not submitted via the online application system. 

Applicants must apply and secure admission to study an approved Master’s course at a participating UK university in addition to applying for a Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship via the CSC’s online application system. 

• View full list of approved courses and participating UK universities 

Applicants can apply for more than one course and to more than one university, but they may only accept one offer of a Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship. Please note that Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships are only for Master’s courses and not for undergraduate or PhD study.  

Please check with the chosen university for their specific advice on when to apply, admission requirements, and rules for applying. 

Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship applications will be shared with UK universities, who will nominate their chosen candidates to receive a Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship in June 2025. The CSC then checks that the candidates nominated meet the CSC’s eligibility criteria. Universities inform candidates if they have successfully been awarded a Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship by August 2025.