The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Programme is a prestigious initiative offered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), which operates under the UK government’s scholarship scheme with a focus on international development objectives. As part of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), this programme exemplifies the UK’s unwavering commitment to the Commonwealth.
The primary aim of the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Programme is to address the development needs of Commonwealth countries by providing training opportunities to skilled and qualified professionals from diverse backgrounds. By attracting individuals with exceptional talent and potential, the CSC aims to nurture future leaders and innovators who will contribute to the sustainable development of their home countries.
This programme specifically targets high-quality postgraduate students from Least Developed and middle-income countries, including those affected by fragility and conflict. Eligible candidates should not have previously studied for a year or more in a high-income country and should demonstrate the potential to enhance their home countries’ development through the knowledge and leadership skills they acquire.
Applicants for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Programme should be citizens of or have refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country. They must also be permanent residents of an eligible Commonwealth country and be available to commence their academic studies in the UK by September 2024. Furthermore, applicants should hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honours standard, or a lower second-class degree with a relevant postgraduate qualification.
The application process involves UK universities bidding for scholarships for specific courses that have demonstrable development impact. Successful universities then facilitate the initial selection of candidates, who are subsequently approved by the CSC. It is important to note that the living cost component of the scholarships is funded by the participating universities.
The CSC is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination, encouraging applications from a diverse range of candidates. There is no age limit for applying to the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Programme, although applicants are advised to consult their employers regarding any age restrictions on leave entitlement.
To learn more about this scholarship opportunity, including the eligible countries and the application deadline of 14th December 2023, please visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s official website.