Deadline
2025-05-20
Value of Scholarship
Full Scholarship , £18,000 per year, Travel & Visa Costs
Country Tenable
United Kingdom
Renewable
No
Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025 – Study a UK Master’s from Home
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship offers international students the opportunity to pursue part-time, taught Master’s degrees from UK universities, while continuing to live and work in their home countries.
This prestigious program is designed to support individuals with exceptional talent and potential, empowering them to become leaders, innovators, and agents of change in their communities upon graduation.
About the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship
The scholarship supports students in gaining advanced knowledge and skills needed for sustainable development, in alignment with the UK’s commitment to global partnership and progress.
Scholarships are awarded under six key 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
This is a unique chance to earn a respected UK qualification while making a real difference in your country. Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of the eligibility criteria or application process next!
Eligibility Criteria for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025
To apply for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of, or have been granted refugee status by, an eligible Commonwealth country, or be a British Protected Person
- Be permanently residing in a developing Commonwealth country
- Hold a first degree with at least an upper second-class (2:1) standard. In some cases, a lower qualification may be accepted if accompanied by relevant professional experience
- Demonstrate that they would be unable to afford to study the program without this scholarship
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) seeks to support individuals with the potential to drive meaningful change in their communities. The CSC is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination, and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities.
For more information on disability support, refer to the CSC Disability Support Statement.
Benefits of the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) provides funding of up to £18,000 per scholarship. If the total cost of the program exceeds this amount, universities may contribute additional support from approved sources.
The scholarship is designed to fully cover all essential aspects of the program, including:
Full tuition fees
- Grant to support study-related expenses
- Partnership development costs
- UK residential program costs (if applicable)
- If a UK residential component is included in the course, the university is expected to provide the following additional support:
- Round-trip travel from the scholar’s home country to the UK
- UK visa costs
- A maintenance stipend of:
- £1,133/month (outside London)
- £1,390/month (within London)
These rates are set by the UK government and may be adjusted annually.
Required Documents for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship
As part of your application, you will be required to:
- List all undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications
- List up to 10 publications or awards
- Provide a detailed employment history and explain its relevance to the intended study program
- Write a personal statement on how your background and goals align with the scholarship
- Submit a Development Impact Statement structured in four parts
- Provide the names and contact details of two referees, one of whom should be your current employer (if applicable)
Supporting Documents to Upload:
- A valid passport or national ID showing citizenship or refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country (including photo, date of birth, and nationality)
- Academic transcripts for all higher education qualifications (and in-progress studies), with certified English translations if necessary
- Two letters of reference on official institutional letterhead, or sent from a verifiable institutional email address
How to Apply for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Applications for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships for the 2025/26 academic year are now open. Interested and eligible candidates should follow the steps below to apply:
Application Deadline:
Thursday, 20 May 2025 at 16:00 (GMT)
Step-by-Step Application Process:
Apply for Admission
Choose an approved Master’s course at a participating UK university and apply for admission directly through the university’s website.
Apply for the Scholarship
Submit a separate application for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship via the CSC’s online application system.
Explore Options
You may apply to multiple universities and courses, but can only accept one scholarship offer if selected.
Important Note
- This scholarship is available only for Master’s level study
- It does not cover undergraduate or PhD programs
- Each university may have its own admission deadlines and requirements—ensure you check with your chosen university for full details
Scholarships are not only for the smart students. Anyone can get scholarships
Have a Question about this Scholarship?