The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships for 2025-2026 provide fully funded opportunities for students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to earn a Master’s degree from a UK university without the need to relocate.
These scholarships allow recipients to study remotely through part-time programs while gaining access to world-class education and resources from the UK. Funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), this program is part of the wider Commonwealth Scholarship scheme.
Its goal is to help equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills that they can immediately apply in their home countries. With a clear focus on inclusion, sustainable development, and global cooperation, this scholarship is a gateway for learners to gain international exposure while continuing their professional or personal commitments locally.
Why the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships Matter
For many talented students, studying abroad isn’t feasible due to family responsibilities, financial limitations, or job commitments. The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2025-2026 remove those barriers. By offering fully funded, part-time Master’s programs online, these scholarships make high-quality education from top UK universities accessible from anywhere in the world.
They also help build capacity in key sectors such as health, education, technology, governance, and economic development by targeting areas critical to national progress. The scholarships are therefore not only beneficial to individual recipients but also to the broader development of their communities and countries.
Who Funds and Administers the Scholarship?
The scholarship is supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC). It operates in partnership with selected UK universities that offer distance learning programs aligned with the scheme’s objectives.
Benefits of the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship
Recipients of the 2025-2026 award receive:
- Full tuition coverage for a UK Master’s degree through distance learning
- Flexible learning from home, allowing students to balance work, family, and study
- Access to top-tier UK academic resources, mentorship, and global networks
- Support for additional study-related costs, depending on the university and course
- An internationally recognized qualification from a UK institution
- The chance to develop leadership and technical skills relevant to development goals
This makes it one of the most inclusive and practical fully funded scholarships for aspiring postgraduates.
Available Fields of Study
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships are aligned with six core development 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
- Access, Inclusion, and Opportunity
Applicants must choose a Master’s course that directly supports one or more of these themes. Most programs focus on practical knowledge with real-world applications to help graduates drive change in their communities.
Eligible Countries
You must be a citizen of one of the following Commonwealth countries to apply:
- Africa: Cameroon, Eswatini, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, The Gambia, Uganda, Zambia
- Asia: Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
- Caribbean and Americas: Guyana
- Pacific: Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Applicants must also reside in their country of citizenship throughout the study period.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2025-2026, you must:
- Be a citizen of, or hold refugee status in, an eligible Commonwealth country
- Be permanently resident in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country
- Hold a first degree with at least an upper second-class (2:1) standard
- In exceptional cases, applicants with a lower qualification and relevant professional experience may be considered
- Not be enrolled in any other Master’s program funded by the UK government
- Be unable to afford to study in the UK without the scholarship
Required Documents
You’ll need to upload the following documents during your scholarship application:
- Completed CSC online application form
- Copy of valid passport or national ID
- Academic transcripts and Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Proof of English proficiency (varies by university)
- Two reference letters
- Personal statement or motivation letter outlining your goals
- Proof of application or admission to a relevant UK university’s Master’s course
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process
Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet all academic, residency, and citizenship requirements.
Select a Course and University: Visit the official Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) website to see the list of participating UK universities and eligible Master’s programs.
Apply to the university: Apply for admission to your chosen course directly through the UK university’s website. Each university has its application procedure and deadlines.
Apply for the Scholarship: Once your course application is submitted, complete the CSC online application form with the link below.
Submit All Documents: Upload all required materials, including references, academic history, and a personal statement.
Deadline: Submit your scholarship application by 20 May 2025, 23:59 GMT.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application link
https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-distance-learning-scholarships-candidates/
Selection Process
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Academic merit
- Relevance of the course to the applicant’s background and goals
- Potential impact on the development of their home country
- Strength of the supporting statements and references
Shortlisted candidates will be notified by email. Final award offers typically follow in the months after the application deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to travel to the UK for this scholarship?
No. The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships are 100% online and part-time, allowing you to study from your home country.
Can I apply if I already have a Master’s degree?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements and can show how this second Master’s will help your country’s development.
What if I don’t have a 2:1 degree?
You may still be considered if you have substantial relevant work experience in a related field.
Can I apply for more than one course or university?
Yes, but you must submit a separate application for each course and scholarship.
What are the reference requirements?
You need two references. They should come from academic or professional contacts familiar with your capabilities.
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