Fully Funded Commonwealth Ph.D. Scholarships 2024 in the UK for Underdeveloped Countries Applicants
The Commonwealth Ph.D. Scholarships offer a remarkable opportunity for applicants from the world’s least-developed countries and fragile States, as designated by the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) within the Commonwealth.
These scholarships support full-time doctoral studies at prestigious UK universities, paving the way for academic excellence and global impact.
Commitment to International Development
Administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC), these scholarships are part of the UK government’s scholarship scheme dedicated to international development goals.
Operating within the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), the program reflects the UK’s unwavering commitment to the Commonwealth.
By attracting exceptional individuals with immense potential from diverse backgrounds, the CSC nurtures future leaders and innovators who will drive change in their home countries.
Scholarships with a Developmental Focus
Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), these Commonwealth PhD scholarships are instrumental in addressing the development needs of Commonwealth nations.
They support research endeavors with a clear developmental impact while enhancing individual teaching and research capabilities, thereby bolstering institutional capacity in Commonwealth countries.
These scholarships also contribute to the advancement of UK higher education and research, fostering international collaboration.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants must be citizens of or hold refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country, or be British Protected Persons.
Permanent residency in an eligible Commonwealth country is a prerequisite.
Applicants must intend to commence academic studies in the UK by September 2024, possess a first-degree qualification meeting specific standards, and not be already registered for a Ph.D. or MPhil leading to a Ph.D. in the UK or their home country by September/October 2024. Financial need is another crucial criterion.
Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination
The CSC promotes equal opportunity and non-discrimination. Disabled applicants who demonstrate potential for international development but do not meet the usual academic requirements may be considered through the Commonwealth Disabled People’s Forum (CDPF) nominator.
Selection Criteria
The selection process for these prestigious scholarships evaluates applicants based on academic merit, the quality of their research proposal, the potential developmental impact of their work in their home country, and financial need.
What Do the Scholarships Cover?
Each scholarship provides comprehensive support, including airfare from the Scholar’s home country to the UK and return, tuition fees, a stipend for living expenses, a warm clothing allowance, study travel grants, funding for overseas fieldwork, a mid-term visit to the Scholar’s home country, and family allowances where applicable.