Commonwealth PhD Scholarships Applications Are Open Now

Commonwealth Scholarships are awarded to exceptional candidates who have the ability to make a strong impact on the global stage. The Commonwealth scholarships were first introduced in 1959. Since then, a significant number of students have been receiving the scholarships every year. By enticing individuals from all backgrounds with exceptional talent and potential and assisting them in realizing their potential as leaders and innovators when they return to their countries. The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) of the United Kingdom administers the UK government's scholarship program, which is governed according to the international development goals.

The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships are for eligible candidates who are from regions that are less developed and have limited resources. The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships provide an edge for students to do their PhD at a credible university in the United Kingdom. High-caliber graduates with the ability to conduct top-notch developmental research and evolve into significant leaders, instructors, or researchers in their homeland are suitable for Commonwealth PhD scholarships. Scholarships are only available for 36 months of full-time study at any recognized UK university or higher education institution with which the CSC has a financing partnership agreement for a particular research program.

How To Apply

The applications for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships for the session 2022–23 are now open. The last date to apply for the scholarship is October 18, 2022. Students are required to submit all the required documents before the last date. The candidates are required to submit their applications through the online application system of the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission.

Students are notified that the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission does not accept direct applications which is why students are required to apply from the following nominating agencies.

• National nominating agencies – the main route of application

• Selected universities/university bodies – which can nominate their own academic staff

• Selected non-governmental organizations and charitable bodies

Each mentioned organization oversees its own selection criteria and can have further eligibility requirements for candidates. Candidates should consult the nominating agency for information on their specific application guidelines and assistance. The deadline for applications may be determined by nominating organizations independently.

It is mandatory for candidates to submit the CSC’s online applications in addition to any other application required by the organizations. Any applications that have not been submitted through the online application system will not be accepted by the CSC.

Candidates are advised to complete and submit their application process at the earliest possible to avoid any inconvenience. By December 2022, agencies will propose candidates to the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission.

Required Documents

The following documents are required to apply for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarship:

• A CNIC copy or passport will prove that the individual is a citizen of a Commonwealth eligible country.

• All the previous academic documents, including certifications.

• The documents must be translated if they are not in English.

• Two references are required on the official letter head.

• A letter of support, on the letterhead of the institution, from the proposed supervisor in the UK, from at least one of the organizations listed on the application form.

• Up to 10 publications

• Provide the previous work history

Candidates are required to provide all the documents before the last date. Incomplete applications will not be entertained. Participants are informed to stay aware that the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission does not charge any application fee for the scholarships or fellowships. Furthermore, the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission does not charge the organizations to recommend candidates.

Selecting A University

There are a number of universities and courses that you might find it difficult to select. The following are the best sites to hunt for the best-suited university and course. These sites will provide you with deep insight and complete knowledge regarding all the courses and universities for the commonwealth PhD scholarships.

• UCAS Postgraduate

• Unistats

• UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs)

Eligibility Criteria For Commonwealth Scholarship 

To apply for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships candidates must have fall in the following eligibility criteria.

• Candidate must be citizen of an eligible commonwealth country

• Candidate must ensure their availability on the start of the academic calendar in September 2023

• Candidate must possess a masters or a relevant postgraduate degree by September 2023

• Candidate must not be registered in any of PhD degree or an MPHIL leading PhD in any of the UK University or in home town before September 2023

• Be in need of this scholarship and not be able to afford to study in the UK otherwise

• Provide all the required documentation

Eligible Countries For Commonwealth PhD Scholarships

The candidates from the following countries are eligible to apply for the commonwealth PhD Scholarships for the session 2023/24.

• Bangladesh

• Cameroon

• Kenya

• Kiribati

• Lesotho

• Malawi

• Mozambique

• Nigeria

• Pakistan

• Rwanda

• Sierra Leone

• Solomon Islands

• Tanzania

• The Gambia

• Tuvalu

• Uganda

• Zambia

Selection Criteria For Commonwealth Scholarship 

The selection criteria for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships is based on the following.

• Previous academic merit of the candidate

• Plan of study

• Potential effects on the development of the candidate’s country

Financial Assistance

Every scholarship includes the following assistance.

• Airfare from homeland to UK and return ticket upon the completion of the scholarship program

• Approved full tuition fee of the candidate

• Living allowance will be provided of around 335,788 PKR per month and 411,856 PKR for universities in metropolitan areas of London.

• Allowance for Warm Clothes if required

• Any travel related to studies within the premises of the United Kingdom or abroad

• Paid midterm visit to home country

• Family allowances (Depending upon the circumstances whether you have a spouse or spouse with children)

For the detailed information, students are advised to visit the Handbook for Commonwealth Scholars and Fellows.