2027 Commonwealth PhD Scholarships For Developing Countries | Fully Funded

Applications are now open for the 2027 Commonwealth PhD Scholarships, offering fully funded doctoral study opportunities at universities across the United Kingdom.

The scholarship is designed for talented candidates from eligible Commonwealth countries, particularly applicants from least developed countries and vulnerable states, who want to undertake research that can contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.

2027 Commonwealth PhD Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: United Kingdom
• Study Level: PhD
• Eligible Countries: Eligible Commonwealth countries
• Funding: Fully Funded
• Monthly Stipend: Up to £2,000
• Benefits: Tuition fees, airfare, study grants and allowances
• Deadline: October 20, 2026

About the Commonwealth PhD Scholarship

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), in partnership with UK universities, provides these scholarships to support high-quality doctoral research with a strong developmental impact.

Successful scholars will receive financial support throughout their studies, allowing them to focus on their research while gaining access to a world-class UK university education.

Scholarship Benefits

The 2027 Commonwealth PhD Scholarship provides several benefits, including:

• Full tuition fee coverage.
• Approved return airfare between the scholar’s home country and the UK.
• Monthly living allowance of £1,712, or £2,000 for scholars studying in London.
• Study travel and fieldwork grants where applicable.
• Support for eligible family and child allowances.
• Additional support for scholars with disabilities based on assessed needs.
• Warm clothing allowance where applicable.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered, applicants must generally:

• Be a citizen or eligible resident of a qualifying Commonwealth country.
• Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Be available to begin their studies in the UK in September 2027.
• Hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) standard, or a lower second-class degree together with a relevant postgraduate qualification.
• Not already be registered for a PhD at the relevant time.
• Demonstrate that they cannot afford to study in the UK without the scholarship.
• Provide all required supporting documents in the specified format.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare documents such as proof of citizenship, complete academic transcripts, references and a supporting statement from a proposed UK supervisor. Applicants will also need an eligible university offer according to the scholarship requirements.

How to Apply for the 2027 Commonwealth PhD Scholarship

Interested applicants must complete the application through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s online application system. Applicants are also required to apply through an approved nominating agency, university or eligible organisation.

Because the application process involves multiple documents and a nomination route, candidates are encouraged to begin preparing their applications early.

Deadline: October 20, 2026

APPLY HERE