If you’re an international student looking for a fully-funded scholarship, the Commonwealth Scholarships might be your ticket to postgraduate studies in the UK. Commonwealth Scholarship 2023 deadline is on the 17th of October and if you want to know how to apply for the scholarship, this article is for you.
Every year, the UK invests in the Commonwealth by supporting over 800 students to study at UK universities. You could be among them if you’re from a Commonwealth country and ready to make a mark on the world.
It’s a maze our there and you may not have all the information you need to know how to apply for the Commonwealth scholarship 2023/2024. Read through this article to get all the information you need about eligibility and how to apply.
What is the Commonwealth Scholarship 2023?
If you’re eyeing the Commonwealth Scholarship for 2023, here’s what you need to know. The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK is your gateway to studying in the UK if you’re from a low or middle-income Commonwealth country like Bangladesh, Belize, Botswana, Cameroon, Dominica, Eswatini, Fiji, Gabon, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Saint Helena, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, The Gambia, Togo, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Zambia.
The scholarship is all about nurturing leaders and innovators who will return to their home countries to make a difference, all through the lens of sustainable development and international collaboration.
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) is a key player in the UK’s scholarship scheme, driven by international development goals. It’s part of the broader Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, showcasing the UK’s commitment to its Commonwealth partners. The CSC focuses on nurturing individuals with exceptional talent from diverse backgrounds, helping them become leaders and innovators when they return to their home countries.
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. It is designed to empower talented and motivated individuals from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries. These scholarships provide the necessary knowledge and skills for sustainable development and are specifically for those who otherwise wouldn’t have the financial means to study in the UK.
What is the Difference between Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarship?
Although both are UK-based, there are major differences between the Chevening and Commonwealth scholarship. The Commonwealth is tailored for students from member countries, focusing on their specific developmental needs. Chevening casts a wider net globally. Funding-wise, the UK government backs the Commonwealth through its Commission, while the Foreign and Commonwealth Office funds Chevening.
The Commonwealth is more flexible in study levels. The Commonwealth scholarship offers Master’s, Ph.D., and split-site programs (where a portion of the program is undertaken in the home country), whereas Chevening focuses on one-year Master’s degrees in any field of study.
When you apply, the Commonwealth uses the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s online system while Chevening scholarship has its unique portal. Each has its own set of requirements and deadlines, so pay close attention. Post-study, Commonwealth scholars are expected to return home to aid in development, similar to Chevening scholars, who must also spend at least two years back home.
Your choice between the two should hinge on where you’re from, your desired study level, and your career ambitions. Take time and research their criteria, perks, and commitments to see which fits your future plans. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from scholarship experts or past recipients for insider insights.
Is the Commonwealth Scholarship 2023/2024 Fully Funded?
Yes, the Commonwealth Scholarship is fully funded. Before applying for any scholarship, you need to know what the scholarship covers.
The scholarship covers the cost of your airfare to and from the UK. However, keep in mind that this does not extend to family members or any travel prior to the confirmation of your award.
When it comes to tuition, the full tuition fees are settled directly with the UK university, so you won’t have to worry about these costs. In addition, you’ll receive a monthly stipend to support your living expenses, which is set at £1,347 or £1,652 if you’re studying in universities around the London metropolitan area, reflecting the higher cost of living there.
The scholarship also considers the need for warm clothing, which is particularly useful if you’re not used to the British weather. Plus, there’s a study travel grant available to support any travel that’s related to your studies, whether it’s within the UK or overseas.
For those with children, the scholarship is sensitive to your needs as well. If you’re a single parent, a widowed or divorced scholar, you’ll receive a monthly child allowance to help with the costs of raising your children in the UK. This allowance is £576.61 for the first child and £143 for the second and third child under the age of 16, provided they live with you at the same address in the UK.
Lastly, if you have a disability, the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) is prepared to assess your needs thoroughly and provide additional financial support where eligible.
Who is Eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship?
To be eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship 2023, you must meet several criteria. Firstly, you need to be a citizen, a refugee from an eligible Commonwealth country, or a British Protected Person. It’s essential that you’re also a permanent resident in one of the eligible Commonwealth countries. You should be ready to begin your academic studies in the UK by September 2024, which is when the UK academic year kicks off.
Your academic background is also crucial. By September 2024, you should hold a first degree with at least upper second-class (2:1) honours, or if you have a lower second-class degree, you should also have a relevant postgraduate qualification, typically a Master’s degree. However, the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) generally does not fund a second Master’s degree unless you can justify the need for further study in your application.
Financial need is a key consideration; you must demonstrate that you cannot afford to study in the UK without this scholarship. Additionally, all supporting documentation must be provided in the specified format.
There’s also a provision for disabled applicants. The Commonwealth scholarship understands that you may have faced significant challenges that impacted your educational journey, possibly affecting your ability to meet the academic requirements. If you don’t have a 2:1 undergraduate degree but can show your potential to contribute to international development, you may be considered for a nomination through the Commonwealth Disabled People’s Forum (CDPF). For more details, you should contact the CDPF directly.
Remember, the Commonwealth scholarship 2023 deadline is on the 17th of October, so make sure you have all your documents and justifications ready if you’re planning to apply, especially if you’re considering a second Master’s degree or if you’re applying through the CDPF.
How to Apply for Commonwealth Scholarship
You have to check your desired university before starting an application. Get to know the essential details like application timelines, admission criteria, and specific application instructions. Remember, you’re not limited to one university or course; feel free to apply to multiple options.
When you’re ready to apply, visit the CSC’s official online application portal. Here, you’ll need to pick your country of residence, which will lead you to the registration page. Create your account using your email and a secure password.
Keep in mind, the CSC’s system is the only way to apply. They won’t consider anything that’s not submitted through their portal. So, make sure you have all your documents in digital format, each file not exceeding 5 MB. Acceptable formats include PDF, .doc, .docx, .odt, .jpg, and .jpeg. Do not use zip files, as they’re not accepted.
You’ll need at least one reference, an offer letter from a university, and your academic transcripts ready to upload. Each document must be submitted through the online system; otherwise, the CSC won’t review them.
Mark your calendar for the application deadline: 17 October 2023, at 17:00 BST (16:00 GMT). This is for Master’s scholarships starting in September/October 2024 in the UK.
Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. The closer you get to the deadline, the busier the system will be, which could make the process more stressful.
In addition to applying through the CSC, you must also apply to a nominating agency. There are two types: national nominating agencies, which are the primary route, and selected non-governmental organizations and charitable bodies. These agencies will recommend candidates to the CSC, as direct applications for scholarships are not accepted by the CSC itself.
FAQs
Who is Eligible for Commonwealth Scholarship 2023?
To be eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship in the UK for 2023, you must be a citizen or a permanent resident of a Commonwealth country. This opportunity is also open to British protected persons and refugees.
How to Apply for Commonwealth Scholarship 2023?
If you’re looking to apply, you’ll need to submit your application through a nominating agency, which plays a crucial role in the selection process for the Commonwealth committee.
When can I Apply for the Commonwealth Scholarship?
For those aiming for the 2023 academic year, the application window opens on the 5th of September 2023. Don’t miss your chance; the final date to submit your application is the 17th of October 2023. Remember, this deadline is not just a formality; it’s the last opportunity to secure your place for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships for the upcoming academic session.
What is the Last Date to Apply for the Commonwealth Scholarship?
The last date to apply for Commonwealth Scholarship 2023 is 17 October 2023. This is your chance to be part of an esteemed group of scholars under the Commonwealth Scholarship scheme. With the deadline fast approaching, it’s time to gather your documents, prepare your application, and reach out to the nominating agency. Don’t let this opportunity slip away; start your application process today.