The Commonwealth Fellowship, offered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK, is a prestigious programme that offers individuals from Commonwealth countries the opportunity to pursue advanced studies, professional development, and research projects in various fields. Established in 1960 with the arrival of the initial group of 175 Scholars in the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth Scholarship has been granted to more than 27,000 individuals.
The Commonwealth Scholarships are funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Department (FCDO) and are offered under the following development themes:
- Science and Technology for Development
- Strengthening Health Systems & Capacity
- Promoting Global Prosperity
- Strengthening Global Peace, Security & Governance
- Strengthening Resilience & Response to Crises
- Access, Inclusion & Opportunity
Types of Commonwealth Scholarships
The following scholarships are offered to eligible candidates:
- Commonwealth Master's Scholarships
- Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
- Commonwealth Distance learning
- Commonwealth PhD Scholarship
- Commonwealth Split-site PhD Scholarships
- Commonwealth Professional Fellowships
- Gender and Sexuality Fellowships
What does the Commonwealth Fellowship cover?
The Commonwealth Fellowship provides financial support to cover various costs associated with the fellowship. The exact amount offered by the Commonwealth Fellowship can vary depending on the specific fellowship and the host institution; however, here are some common benefits of the grant:
- Pre-approved airfare from home country to the UK and a return ticket after the completion of the course.
- Full tuition fees at the approved University.
- A living allowance at the rate of £1,236 per month, or £1,516 per month for those at universities in London.
- If travelling with children and the applicant is a single parent, he or she will receive a child allowance based on the age and number of children.
- An allowance for warm clothes when needed.
Commonwealth Master's Scholarships
Master's are generally shorter in duration compared to PhD programmes, ranging from one to two years. In order to be eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship, students must meet the following criteria over and above the common ones listed above. Applicants are also expected to have a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification.
Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
PhD programmes typically have a longer duration compared to master's, ranging from three to five or more years. In order to be eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship, students must meet the following criteria over and above the common ones listed above, as well as having a master’s degree or be in the final year of the programme, and not be registered for a PhD or an MPhil leading to a PhD, at a UK university or in the home country.
Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships are designed for candidates from Commonwealth countries who wish to pursue part-time taught Master's study with UK universities while residing in their home countries. Distance learning provides flexibility, allowing candidates to study while managing personal and professional commitments. The duration of the scholarship varies depending on the programme and university, but it typically covers the full duration of the chosen course.
In order to be eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:
- Applicants should have an undergraduate degree; however, a lower qualification with sufficient relevant work experience may be considered in certain cases.
Commonwealth Split-site PhD Scholarships
The Commonwealth Split-site PhD Scholarships are aimed at candidates from Commonwealth countries who wish to pursue a doctoral degree (PhD) and allow candidates to spend a portion of their research time in the UK while being primarily based at their home university or institution. The split-site study allows candidates to benefit from the expertise and resources available at both the UK and home institutions.
In order to be eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:
- Applicants should have a master's degree in a relevant field of study and meet the academic requirements set by the UK university they are applying to.
- Be able to establish an institutional or departmental connection between the home university and the UK university chosen. It is required that both supervisors provide a supporting statement that provides additional information about this connection.
Commonwealth Fellowship Eligibility and Requirements
While each of the scholarships has its specific eligibilities and requirements, here are some common ones across them:
- Be a citizen of any Commonwealth Country
- Be below 40 years
- Not able to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship
- Able to provide all supporting documentation in the required format
Selection Process
To be considered for Commonwealth Scholarships, applicants must submit their applications through a National Nominating agency, which varies for each participating Commonwealth country and has its own set of rules, eligibility criteria, and deadlines. The applications undergo evaluation based on the following selection criteria:
- Academic merit of the candidate
- Quality of the Plan of Study
- Impact the student potentially might have on home country
Documents Needed
While the specific documents required for each program may vary, here are some commonly requested documents for scholarship applications:
- Copy of passport as proof of identity.
- Admission letter from a UK university confirming acceptance into a program.
- List of all undergraduate and postgraduate university qualifications obtained.
- List up to 10 publications and prizes to highlight achievements and contributions in the chosen field.
- Detailed employment history along with the relevance to the program selected in the UK.
- List of three referees who can comment on the applicant's capacity to benefit from the scholarship and the ability to deliver development impact afterwards. One of the referees should be a current employer (if applicable).
- A statement outlining the expected development impact through the scholarship.
- A personal statement summarising how the applicant’s personal background has motivated them to make a positive impact in their home country.
- PhD applicants are also required to submit a comprehensive research proposal that outlines the research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
The Commonwealth Fellowship provides an excellent opportunity for individuals from Commonwealth countries to pursue advanced studies, professional development, and research projects. Also, as the specific requirements for scholarship applications are subject to change, it is advisable to refer to the official website or guidelines of the scholarship or university for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Commonwealth Fellowship FAQ
Q. Who is eligible for Commonwealth Fellowship?
The eligibility criteria for Commonwealth Fellowships may differ according to the specific fellowship. Specific fellowship programmes may have additional requirements related to work experience, academic achievements, and the chosen field of study. Generally, citizens or permanent residents of Commonwealth countries who have completed the required degree or equivalent qualification as per the eligibility of the particular programme are awarded this fellowship.
Q. Who is eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship 2023?
The eligibility criteria for the Commonwealth Scholarship 2023 are similar to the Commonwealth Fellowships. Applicants have to be either citizens or permanent residents of the Commonwealth countries, and they must have completed the required degree or equivalent qualification. Additional requirements may vary depending on the specific scholarship and the chosen field of study.
Q. How much is the stipend for PhD in Commonwealth Scholarship?
The stipend for a PhD under the Commonwealth Scholarship depends on the host country and the specific scholarship. Usually, the scholarship provides financial support to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs. For example, other than tuition fees and other expenses, one receives a living allowance at the rate of £1,236 per month or £1,516 per month for those at universities in London.
Q. What does the Commonwealth Scholarship cover?
The Commonwealth Scholarship typically covers various expenses related to the recipient's study and stay abroad. This includes tuition fees, a living allowance or stipend, airfare to and from the host country, research-related travel costs, and an arrival allowance. The scholarship may also include additional benefits such as thesis grants, fieldwork support, and support for family members accompanying the recipient.
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