Commonwealth Split-site (PhD) Scholarships 2024/2025 for Study in the United Kingdom (Fully Funded) is open.
Overview
The Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships target candidates from low and middle-income countries within the Commonwealth, offering them the opportunity to conduct research at a UK university for 12 months. Administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC), this scholarship is aligned with international development goals and is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO). It operates within the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), showcasing the UK’s commitment to the Commonwealth.
Purpose
The primary goal is to broaden access to UK resources and expertise for high-quality doctoral candidates from Commonwealth countries. By fostering collaboration and partnerships, the scholarship aims to contribute to higher education and research in both the UK and the Commonwealth. The ultimate focus is on nurturing individuals who, upon their return home, can emerge as influential leaders, educators, or researchers.
Beneficiaries
This scholarship caters to graduates from Least Developed and middle-income countries, including those in fragile and conflict-affected states. The target candidates, unable to afford UK education otherwise, possess the potential to make substantial contributions to their home countries. Their proposed research should center on developmental and leadership themes.
Award Duration
The scholarship spans 12 months, allowing flexibility for candidates to undertake it either as a single 12-month period or two six-month periods.
Application Process
- Deadline: The deadline for applications for the 2024/25 academic year is 16:00 GMT on 5 December 2023.
- How to Apply: Applications are directly accepted from candidates through the CSC’s online application system.
- Early Submission Advised: Due to expected high volumes, applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well in advance of the deadline.
- University Selection: Candidates must apply to a UK university with a part-funding agreement with the CSC.
Supporting Documentation
Applicants must include the following with their application:
- Proof of Eligibility: Valid passport or national ID card confirming citizenship or refugee status.
- Educational Qualifications: Complete transcripts for higher education qualifications, including ongoing courses.
- References: Two references in PDF format from referees, including home and proposed UK supervisors.
- Supporting Statements: Statements in PDF format from proposed UK and home supervisors, confirming institutional links.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must:
- Be citizens or refugees of eligible Commonwealth countries.
- Be permanent residents of eligible Commonwealth countries.
- Be registered for a PhD at a home university in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Ensure an institutional or departmental link between the home and proposed UK university.
- Be available to start academic study in the UK in September 2024.
- Hold a first degree of at least upper second-class honours standard or equivalent.
- Demonstrate financial need for studying in the UK.
Eligible Countries
Please note that only applicants from the following eligible countries can apply for Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships in 2024/25:
- Bangladesh
- Belize
- Botswana
- Cameroon
- Dominica
- Eswatini
- Fiji
- Gabon
- Ghana
- Grenada
- Guyana
- India
- Jamaica
- Kenya
- Kiribati
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Mauritius
- Montserrat
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Nauru
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Papua New Guinea
- Rwanda
- Saint Helena
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Samoa
- Sierra Leone
- Solomon Islands
- South Africa
- Sri Lanka
- Tanzania
- The Gambia
- Togo
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- Uganda
- Vanuatu
- Zambia
Application Checklist and Advice
Applicants should carefully follow the detailed application checklist, which includes providing a development impact statement and a plan of study. Additional advice for choosing a university and course is available, guiding applicants through the process.
Financial Assistance
Each scholarship includes:
- Approved airfare to and from the UK.
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Warm clothing allowance.
- Study travel grant.
- Child allowance for eligible candidates.
- Disability support upon assessment.
General Conditions
Various conditions, including scholarship coverage, due diligence checks, and adherence to UK immigration regulations, apply. Scholars are expected to reside in the UK during their award, with no concurrent paid employment. The scholarship does not support a study period at the home country university.
For detailed information, applicants are encouraged to consult the current Handbook for Commonwealth Scholars and check for any updates or changes.
FAQs and Enquiries
For answers to common questions and additional information, please refer to the FAQs page. Specific queries not covered on the website can be directed using the contact us form. The CSC is committed to ensuring a fair, transparent, and supportive scholarship experience for all applicants.
Apply now for the Commonwealth Split-site Scholarship and embark on a transformative research journey in the UK!
