The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026–27 offer an exceptional opportunity for talented postgraduate students who wish to pursue professional development while remaining in their home countries. These fully funded scholarships are specifically designed for individuals who demonstrate strong potential but cannot access quality training locally due to financial or structural barriers.
The programme enables scholars to enhance their professional expertise, gain globally competitive skills, and study under the supervision of leading academics from top-ranked UK universities — all through flexible distance learning.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host Universities: UK Universities (Approved Participating Institutions)
- Funded By: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
- Administered By: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC)
- Degree Level: Master’s Degree (Distance Learning)
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: Eligible Commonwealth Countries
- Reward: Full Tuition Fees | Study Grants (where applicable)
- Deadline: March 31, 2026 (16:00 BST)
Scholarship Details
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Master’s Scholarships are structured around six key development themes aligned with global sustainable development priorities. These themes include:
- Science and technology for development
- Strengthening health systems and capacity
- Promoting global prosperity
- Strengthening global peace, security, and governance
- Additional development-focused priority areas
The scholarship programme aims to invest in future leaders and development professionals who can contribute meaningfully to their countries. Sponsored by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the initiative supports the UK’s development objectives while promoting educational excellence, merit-based selection, inclusion, diversity, and equity across Commonwealth nations.
Through this opportunity, scholars join a global network of professionals dedicated to achieving sustainable development goals.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026–27, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of, or have refugee status in, an eligible Commonwealth country, or be a British Protected Person
- Be permanently resident in a developing Commonwealth country
- Hold a first degree with at least an upper second-class (2:1) standard by September 2026 (lower qualifications may be considered with relevant experience)
- Demonstrate inability to afford the programme without the scholarship
- Provide three referees (one must be a current employer, if applicable)
- Apply for and secure admission to an approved master’s course at a participating UK university
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Study grants where required
- Access to world-class academic mentorship
- Opportunity to gain internationally recognized qualifications while remaining in their home country
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Details of three referees (including current employer, if applicable)
- Supporting documents as specified by the CSC
- Proof of admission to an approved master’s programme
How to Apply
To apply for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026–27, follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Apply to a UK University
- Select an approved distance learning master’s course
- Apply directly to the participating UK university
- Meet all admission and English language requirements
- Secure admission before proceeding
Step 2: Apply via the CSC Online Portal
- Register on the CSC Central online system
- Complete two-factor authentication (2FA) during registration
- Receive and safely store your Application Reference Number and passcode
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Provide:
- Academic qualifications
- Employment history
- Three referees’ details
- Development Impact statement
- Study plan and career goals
- Personal statement
- Leadership and voluntary experience
Ensure you save regularly while completing the form.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
- Upload all required documents in the specified format
- Review thoroughly before submission
- Note that applications cannot be edited after submission
Step 5: Submit Before Deadline
- Submit your application before 16:00 BST on March 31, 2026
- Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues
- Log back into the system to confirm submission
Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin preparations early to ensure successful submission before the deadline.
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