Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries & Vulnerable States)

The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships support outstanding students from least developed countries and vulnerable states to pursue full-time doctoral study at UK universities. The programme is funded by the UK government and focuses on building research capacity and long-term development impact in scholars’ home countries.

What’s Offered

• Full coverage of tuition fees at a UK university

• A monthly living allowance sufficient for living costs in the UK

• Return airfare between the scholar’s home country and the UK

• An allowance for research-related expenses

• Support for approved fieldwork and study travel where required

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to citizens of eligible least developed countries and vulnerable states within the Commonwealth

• Applicants must hold at least an upper second-class undergraduate degree (or equivalent) and typically a relevant master’s qualification

• Must demonstrate academic excellence and clear development impact aligned with their home country’s needs

• Candidates must not be registered for a PhD or already studying in a high-income country

Process & Structure

• Applicants apply through national nominating agencies or approved organisations in their home country

• Shortlisted candidates are assessed on academic merit, research quality, leadership potential, and development relevance

• Successful scholars begin their PhD at a participating UK institution for up to three to four years

Focus Areas
Priority is given to research aligned with key development themes, including health systems, education, climate resilience, technology, governance, and economic development.

Deadline
Application timelines vary by nominating agency and country, but typically fall between September and November each year.