The Commonwealth PhD Scholarship 2026 offers full overseas tuition, a living stipend, return travel, and extra funding for research and fieldwork—ensuring you can focus fully on your studies without financial worry. Eligible candidates can earn support that covers all major expenses while gaining world-class research experience.
Research Themes:
These scholarships are awarded under six broad themes aligned with global development priorities:
- Science and Technology for Development – Innovate solutions to global challenges.
- Strengthening Health Systems and Capacity – Improve healthcare access and delivery.
- Promoting Global Prosperity – Enhance economic growth and opportunities.
- Strengthening Global Peace, Security, and Governance – Build safer and more stable communities.
- Strengthening Resilience and Response to Crises – Tackle climate change, disasters, and conflicts.
- Access, Inclusion, and Opportunity – Promote equality in education, work, and social systems.
Eligibility Criteria:
To apply, you must:
- Be a citizen or hold refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country and a permanent resident there.
- Eligible countries include Bangladesh, Cameroon, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, The Gambia, Togo, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Zambia.
- Be available to start studies in the UK in September/October 2026.
- Hold at least an upper second-class (2:1) degree or a second-class degree with a relevant Master’s by October 2026.
- Not be registered for a PhD or MPhil leading to a PhD at a UK university before September 2026.
- Demonstrate financial need and the inability to study in the UK without the scholarship.
Application Timeline:
- Application Opens: 2 September 2025
- Deadline: 15 October 2025, 16:00 GMT
- Where to Apply: Through the CSC online system and your country’s nominating agency
Tip: Apply for a PhD place at the University of Sussex in advance. Having a supervisor ready and all documents prepared, including CV, transcripts, statement of interest, referees, IELTS certificate, and a Development Impact Statement, will strengthen your application.
Apply: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/fees-funding/phd-funding/view/1862-Commonwealth-PhD-Scholarships.
Preparing a Competitive Application:
- Secure a Supervisor: Contact potential PhD supervisors early to discuss your research proposal.
- Write a Strong Statement of Interest: Clearly explain your research goals and alignment with the scholarship themes.
- Create a Development Impact Statement: Demonstrate how your work addresses real-world development challenges.
- Gather Referees: Choose referees who can highlight your research potential and leadership skills.
- Highlight Your Unique Contribution: Show why your research matters and how it will make a difference globally.
Scholarship Benefits:
- Full Tuition Fees: Covers all PhD tuition at the UK university.
- Living Stipend: Enough to cover daily expenses throughout your studies.
- Return Travel: Travel to and from the UK for the duration of the PhD.
- Research Training Support Grant: Extra funding for academic development and fieldwork.
Check Also: Sino German Scholarship For Intelligent Numerical Mathematics
Conclusion:
The Commonwealth PhD Scholarship 2026 is more than just financial support—it’s a chance to advance your career, make a global impact, and pursue research without financial constraints. Start preparing early, align your proposal with development priorities, and take advantage of guidance from your supervisors and referees to maximize your chances.
Visit daadscholarship.com for More Fully-funded Scholarships 2026 News.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does the scholarship cover?
It covers full overseas tuition, a living stipend, return travel to the UK, and additional funding for research training and fieldwork.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be citizens or refugees from eligible Commonwealth countries and permanent residents there. You must meet academic requirements (2:1 degree or equivalent) and demonstrate financial need.
Which countries are eligible?
Eligible countries include Bangladesh, Cameroon, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, The Gambia, Togo, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Zambia.
