Commonwealth PhD Scholarships are for candidates from the least developed countries and vulnerable states in the Commonwealth, put forward by various nominating agencies, for full-time doctoral study at a UK university.  Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Commonwealth PhD Scholarships enable high-quality graduates to undertake world-class research that will impact sustainable development and education, and are aimed at those who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK. The Scholarships are offered under six themes:

• Science and technology for development 
• Strengthening health systems and capacity
• Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship
• Strengthening global peace, security and governance
• Strengthening resilience and response to crises
• Access, inclusion and opportunity

Entry requirements

Full information is available here: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-phd-scholarships-for-least-developed-countries-and-vulnerable-states/ including lists of eligible countries and nominating agencies.

Prospective applicants should check the eligibility requirements of the relevant nominating agency as well as those for the scholarship and their chosen university PhD. The scholarship selection process is based on academic merit, the quality of the research proposal and potential development impact. 

How to apply

All applications must be made through one of the listed nominating agencies. Contact the relevant agency first for their specific advice and rules for applying, as well as their own closing date for applications.

You must make your application, using the CSC’s online application system, by 16:00 hours BST (15:00 GMT) on 15 October 2024, in addition to any other application that you are required to complete by your nominating agency.

You should also take steps to secure a PhD programme offer/supporting letter from your preferred universities well in advance of your scholarship application.

The University of Exeter's Postgraduate Research pages are here

Summary