The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026-2027 are fully funded scholarships for students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries. These scholarships enable recipients to pursue part-time distance master's degrees at UK universities. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, these scholarships aim to build global skills and contribute to sustainable development across regions.
These prestigious scholarships focus on six key development areas: science and technology, health systems, education, economic growth, and crisis response. Selected students gain the opportunity to pursue a high-quality British education without having to relocate. With a strong emphasis on inclusivity and impact, these scholarships enable students to apply their knowledge directly in their home countries.
British universities work closely with the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission to offer a wide range of online Masters programs under this scheme. These scholarships remove barriers to education and support students who cannot afford to study abroad. Stay updated on the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission's official website for information on courses and universities offering distance learning scholarships.
Details of the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2026-2027:
- Host country : United Kingdom
- Funded by : UK Department for International Development (DFID)
- Level of study : Master's degree (distance learning)
- Eligibility requirements : International students from eligible Commonwealth countries
Benefits of the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2026-2027:
- Full tuition fees for a Master's degree at a UK university
- Study from your home country (via distance learning system)
- Access to top-tier British educational resources
- Additional costs (if applicable, depending on the course/university) will be covered.
- An opportunity to obtain an internationally recognized qualification
- Flexible part-time study while working
Available fields of study:
Commonwealth scholarships are offered for distance learning in key development-related fields, including:
- Science and technology for development
- Strengthening health systems and capacities
- Promoting global prosperity
- Promoting peace, security, and global governance
- Enhancing resilience and crisis response
- Access, inclusion, and opportunities
Countries eligible for Commonwealth scholarships for distance learning:
Students from the following Commonwealth countries are eligible to apply:
Bangladesh, Cameroon, Eswatini, Ghana, Guyana, India, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Gambia, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia.
Eligibility criteria for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2026-2027:
- He must be a citizen or refugee of an eligible Commonwealth country.
- He must be a permanent resident of one of the developing Commonwealth countries.
- He must have a first university degree at a level not less than upper second degree (2:1).
- In some cases, candidates with lower qualifications and relevant experience may be considered.
Required documents:
- Completed application form via the CSC online portal
- Proof of nationality/residence (such as passport or national identity card)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proficiency in English (if required by the university)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement/motivation letter
- Letter of acceptance or proof of application to a qualified British university
Delivery date:
The deadline for applications for Commonwealth Distance Learning Grants is March 31, 2026.
How to apply for Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026-2027?
To apply for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship, follow these steps:
- Eligibility check : Make sure you meet the criteria mentioned above.
- Choose a course : Visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) website and select eligible UK universities and distance learning programs.
- University application : Applying for admission to the chosen Master's program.
- Applying for the scholarship : Fill out the CSC online scholarship application form, including academic history, references and personal statement.
- Application deadline : Complete and submit the scholarship application by May 20, 2025.
- Wait for the results : The Civil Service Commission will notify the selected candidates and the candidates who were selected.