The Commonwealth Distance Learning program is now open for application, which is one of three Master’s programs offered by the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission.
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) provides the UK government scholarship scheme led by international development objectives. It operates within the framework of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) and offers a vivid demonstration of the UK’s enduring commitment to the Commonwealth. By attracting individuals with outstanding talent and identifiable potential from all backgrounds and supporting them to become leaders and innovators upon returning to their home countries, the CSC’s work combines sustainable development with the UK national interest and provides opportunities for international partnerships and collaboration.
Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships enable talented and motivated individuals to access training and skills required for sustainable development not available in their home countries.
Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships are for candidates from eligible low and middle-income Commonwealth countries, to undertake part-time taught Master’s study with UK universities while remaining in their home countries.
These scholarships are offered under six CSC Development themes.
Commonwealth Scholarships are offered in any area of science or technology (including, for example, agriculture, veterinary science, or forestry), to develop knowledge and/or skills that are directly related to the specific needs of a low or middle-income country. Where possible, applications should cite expressed national or local priorities.
In order to improve health provision or outcomes for disadvantaged groups in low and middle-income countries, Commonwealth Scholarships support the development of knowledge and/or skills across a range of approaches. These approaches include training staff to fill critical shortage areas; establishing better systems, processes, or management; health promotion and improving understanding of non-take up; and developing new treatments.
Commonwealth Scholarships help to support economic prosperity in low and middle-income countries. The knowledge and/or skills gained could lead to, for example, enhanced trade capacity; improved economic understanding or decision-making by business or government; new products and services; or long-term capacity building, for example through the development of entrepreneurial skills.
Commonwealth Scholarships develop knowledge and/or skills that will strengthen peace and security at national, regional, or international levels. Multiple approaches are studied and implemented by our Scholars, such as strengthening open and transparent governance; improving mutual understanding within and between societies; or building systems that reduce the potential for conflict or encourage its resolution.
Commonwealth Scholarships are awarded in subjects that address a broad range of threats, including natural and physical disasters; long-term threats such as climate change; interruptions to the supply of key resources; and sudden economic or technological disruption and developing new treatments.
Commonwealth Scholarships help to promote opportunity amongst historically disadvantaged groups in low and middle-income countries. Our Commonwealth Scholars expand educational opportunities; conduct community outreach; enhance access to decision-making; and increase understanding of the barriers faced. A range of disadvantages is addressed through our Commonwealth Scholars’ work – including social, economic, gender, ethnic, regional, and political.
Benefits
- Tuition fees will be covered by the scholarship.
- Study grants will be provided by the scholarship (If required).
Eligibilities
- Be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country (A list of eligible countries is available on the official website), or be a British Protected Person.
- Be permanently resident in a developing Commonwealth country.
- Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) standard. A lower qualification and sufficient relevant experience may be considered in certain cases.
- Be unable to afford to study in the program without this scholarship.
Application Process
- Applying for Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship must be made via the CSC’s online application system available at the apply link.
- Applicants will have to create an account in the system and log in to it.
- After login, applicants will have to make the application.
- Candidates must apply and secure admission to study an approved Master’s course at a participating UK university.
- Applications must include supporting documentation to be eligible (The list is available on the official website).
Note:
- Candidates can apply for more than one course and to more than one university but may only accept one offer of a Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship.
Application Deadline: March 28, 2023
Application ClosedOfficial link
