Accepting applications Fully Funded

Commonwealth PhD Scholarships 2027-28 in the UK | Fully Funded

Last updated Aug 8, 2026

Deadline

2026-10-20

Country

United Kingdom

Level

phd

Organization

Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC)

Field

Science and Technology for Development, Health Systems and Capacity, Global Prosperity, International Peace, Security and Governance, Resilience and Response to Crises, Access, Inclusion and Opportunity

Funding

fully funded

Overview

The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships 2027-28 are fully funded awards provided by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for doctoral research at UK universities. The program aims to support high-quality research that contributes to the development of Commonwealth nations.

Coverage

The scholarship is fully funded, covering: - Approved airfare from the home country to the UK and back. - Full tuition fees. - A monthly stipend of £1,712 or £2,000. - Warm clothing allowance (if required). - Study travel grants. - Family allowances for spouses and children under specific conditions. - Additional support for candidates with disabilities.

Eligibility

Applicants must be citizens or refugees of an eligible Commonwealth country (including Ethiopia if listed in the specific program category) or a British Protected Person. Candidates must be permanent residents of an eligible country and be available to start studies in the UK by September 2027.

Requirements

- Hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honours standard, or a lower second-class (2:2) degree plus a relevant Master’s degree. - Must not be registered for a PhD at a UK university or in the home country before September/October 2026. - Must provide evidence of financial need. - No age limit.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted through the CSC’s online application system. Applicants must also apply through a designated nominator (national nominating agency, selected universities, or NGOs). Check the official website for specific nominating agency deadlines.

Notes

Selection is based on academic merit, the quality of the study plan, and the potential developmental impact on the home country. A nomination does not guarantee selection.

Source & Verification

Host organization: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC)

Original source: ScholarshipsCorner

Official application page: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-phd-scholarships-for-least-developed-countries-and-vulnerable-states/

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.