The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships are available to students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries who wish to pursue a part-time Master’s degree through distance learning. These scholarships are designed to support students who lack the financial means to study in the UK.
| Host Country | Online studies (UK) |
| Host Institute | Various institutes |
| Level | Masters |
| Eligible Nationality | Commonwealth countries |
| Fellowship Type | Tuition Fees |
| Duration | 1-2 years |
| Opening Date | February, 2025 |
What are the benefits of the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships?
Recipients of the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships receive several key benefits, including:
- Full Tuition Coverage: The scholarship covers the complete tuition fees for the part-time Master’s program, which can extend up to five years.
- Study Grants: Where applicable, additional study grants may be provided to help cover extra costs associated with distance learning.
- Access to Quality Education: Scholars gain access to postgraduate education from UK universities without the need to relocate, allowing them to acquire skills and knowledge not readily available in their home countries.
- Professional Growth: The program enables scholars to apply newly acquired knowledge directly in their workplaces, enhancing their skills and contributing to organizational improvements.
- Networking Opportunities: Through CSC training modules, newsletters, and the CSC Alumni Association, scholars can build professional connections that support their career development.
- Flexibility: The distance learning format allows students to balance academic and professional commitments effectively.
- Long-Term Career Impact: Many graduates experience career advancements, with some securing leadership roles in NGOs and other development-focused sectors.
By providing financial and academic support, these scholarships empower scholars with the knowledge and expertise needed for leadership and innovation in their respective fields.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships?
To qualify for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Candidates must be citizens of, or hold refugee status from, an eligible Commonwealth country, or be recognized as a British Protected Person.
- Residency: Applicants must be permanent residents of an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Educational Background: A first degree with at least upper second-class honors (2:1) or an equivalent qualification is typically required.
- Study Mode: Candidates must intend to pursue a part-time, taught Master’s degree via distance learning while residing in their home country.
These scholarships aim to assist individuals from low and middle-income Commonwealth nations who require financial support to access higher education opportunities that are otherwise unavailable to them.
Eligible Countries
The CSC promotes hiring from countries that are underrepresented in UK higher education and works to guarantee that these grants are distributed geographically.
The following countries are eligible for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships:
Belize, Bangladesh, Botswana, Cameroon, The Dominican Republic, Eswatini, Gabon, Fiji, The Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia, The Maldives, The island of Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New, Guinea, Rwanda, Saint Lucia and Saint Helena, Grenadines and Saint Vincent, The Samoan, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania Togo, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia
Eligible Universities
The following universities participate in the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship program:
- Bangor University
- Leeds Beckett University
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)
- Loughborough University
- Open University
- School of Advanced Study, University of London
- University of Birmingham
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Lancaster
- University of Liverpool
- University of Oxford
- University of St Andrews
- University of Strathclyde
- University of Sussex
Application Procedure
To apply for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship, follow these steps:
- Select a Program: Choose an eligible distance learning Master’s program from a participating UK university that aligns with your academic and career aspirations.
- Secure Admission: Apply to your chosen university and obtain an offer of admission before the deadline (March 28, 2025, for the 2025/26 academic year).
- Complete the Online Application: Submit an application through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s (CSC) online portal for Distance Learning Scholarships by the deadline of March 28, 2025, at 16:00 (GMT).
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather and upload all necessary documents, including:
- A scanned copy of your passport
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificate
- Two references (which must be uploaded by the applicant)
- Submit Supporting Documents: Ensure all required documents are uploaded to the CSC online system before the deadline.
- Follow-up: After submission, monitor your application status and reach out to the university or CSC for any inquiries.
For the latest updates and specific program requirements, applicants should refer to the official Commonwealth Scholarships website.
To apply for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships, visit the official website.
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