Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026–2027 (Fully Funded UK Online Master’s Degrees)

The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026–2027 are funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC). These scholarships enable students from eligible developing Commonwealth countries to pursue part-time postgraduate degrees online at UK universities while remaining in their home countries.

The program aims to support professionals and graduates who want to gain advanced knowledge and contribute to sustainable development in their communities.

Program Overview

• Host Country: United Kingdom (study delivered online)
• Funding Body: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC)
• Study Mode: Distance learning / online Master’s programs
• Duration: Depends on the course (often up to 3–5 years part-time)
• Start Period: Typically September/October intake

Financial Benefits

The scholarship generally includes:

• Full tuition fee coverage for the approved Master’s course
• Study support or learning grants where required
• Access to academic resources and program materials

Because the program is online, students usually remain in their home country during their studies.

Eligible Fields

Scholarships are offered for selected online Master’s programs at participating UK universities. Fields vary annually but often include:

• Public Health and Medicine
• Education and Online Learning
• Development Studies
• Human Rights and Social Policy
• Science, technology, and sustainability-related disciplines

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants typically must:

• Be citizens or refugees of an eligible Commonwealth country
• Be permanently resident in a developing Commonwealth country
• Hold a first degree equivalent to at least upper second-class (2:1)
• Demonstrate inability to afford the program without the scholarship
• Secure admission to an approved distance-learning Master’s course

These conditions are set by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

Required Documents

Applicants usually prepare:

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Passport or ID proof
• References (normally at least one or two)
• Admission offer from the chosen university
• Completed CSC online application

Application Process

1. Apply to an eligible UK distance-learning Master’s program.
2. Submit the Commonwealth Scholarship application online via CSC.
3. Upload supporting documents and references.
4. Wait for university nomination and CSC selection results.

Deadline

Deadlines vary each year and by course, but many programs close around May for autumn intake (exact dates must be confirmed with the university and CSC portal).