The Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships are for candidates from low and middle-income countries, as classified by the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC), in the Commonwealth. These scholarships facilitate up to 12 months of research in the UK as part of their doctoral studies in their home country. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), this scholarship is part of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), showcasing the UK’s strong commitment to supporting the Commonwealth. Approved UK universities or institutions with part-funding agreements offer the Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships for 12-month research programs.
The Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships target talented graduates from low and middle-income countries, including fragile states, who cannot afford to study in the UK. It seeks individuals with the potential to become influential leaders, educators, or researchers whose research focuses on development and leadership. The grant gives all the conceivable needed monetary help to the PhD candidates during their visit and study in the UK. Accordingly, this remarkable chance for doctoral applicants empowers skilled researchers to affect the networks. The application deadline typically falls in December 2024, and 16 December 2024.
University/Institutions
Numerous UK universities recognized for their excellence offer these scholarships.
- Name: UK universities with part funding agreement (Visit)
- Place: Across the UK
- Ranking: Varies by institution; many rank in the Top 100 globally
- Programs: Doctoral research programs across diverse disciplines
- Program Duration: 3 Year
- Scholarship Duration: Up to 12 months of research in the UK, as part of the home PhD program
Study Areas
The CSC awards scholarships in critical development-focused fields, including:
- Health and Medicine
- Engineering and Technology
- Environmental Sustainability
- Social Sciences
- Education
- Humanities
For Choosing a University Course: Visit
Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships Benefits
Recipients enjoy a wide range of benefits:
- The CSC and UK universities cover full tuition fees through their agreement.
- Stipend (living allowance) at the rate of £1,378 per month, or £1,690 per month for those at universities in the London metropolitan area (rates quoted at current levels).
- Return airfare from the home country to the UK
- Warm clothing allowance, where applicable.
- Research grants for approved study-related expenses
- If a scholar is widowed, divorced, or a single parent, they can receive a child allowance:
- £590 per month for the first child.
- £146 per month each for the second and third child (under 16 years old).
- If a scholar has a disability, the CSC will assess their needs and provide additional financial support if eligible.
Benefits Not Included
- Additional non-academic expenses
Eligibilities of Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a citizen or refugee of an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be permanently living in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be registered for a PhD at a university in an eligible Commonwealth country by September 2025.
- Have a formal link between your home university and the UK university, not just individual collaboration. Both supervisors must provide supporting statements.
- Be ready to start studies in the UK in September 2025.
- Have a first degree with at least an upper second-class (2:1) honors, or a lower second-class degree with a relevant Master’s degree by September 2025.
- Be unable to afford studying in the UK without this scholarship.
- Submit all required supporting documents in the correct format.
- There is no age limit for CSC applications
- Missing or incomplete transcripts will make the application ineligible.
Eligible Countries:
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 and Zambia
Required Documents
- A copy of a valid passport (or national ID card) showing a photograph, date of birth, and country of citizenship).
- Full transcripts of all higher education qualifications, including transcripts for current courses, with certified translations if they are not in English.
- References from at least two individuals, in PDF format,
- A supporting statement, in PDF format, signed and on institutional letterhead or from an email showing the sender’s details, from a proposed UK supervisor at the institution listed on the application form.
- A supporting statement, in PDF format, signed and on institutional letterhead or from an email showing the sender’s details, from the current supervisor at the home university.
Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships Application Process
- Apply to both the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) and your chosen UK university.
- Applications to the CSC must be made using the application system, CSC Central.
- Submit applications via the CSC online portal before the deadline.
- Provide all required documents and secure support letters.
- Await the results of the competitive selection process.
Selection process and criteria
Applications will be considered according to the following selection criteria:
- Academic merit of the candidate
- Quality of the research proposal
- Potential impact on the development of the applicant’s home country
Tips for a Successful Application
- Tailor your research proposal to address pressing global issues.
- Highlight your academic achievements and leadership skills.
- Establish strong communication with your UK supervisor early.
- Proofread your application to ensure clarity and professionalism.
- Submit all documents well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
Living Expenses for Commonwealth Split-site Scholars
As a Commonwealth Split-site scholar, you will receive a living stipend to cover your monthly expenses, which is £1,347–£1,652 depending on your location in the UK. While this amount should cover essentials like accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities, keep in mind:
- Accommodation: Average cost is £500–£800 per month, higher in cities like London.
- Food: Typically costs £150–£250 per month.
- Transportation: Monthly public transport expenses can range from £50–£150 depending on the city.
For additional expenses, such as entertainment or personal purchases, budgeting is key, especially if living in a more expensive area.
Why Choose This Scholarship?
This scholarship offers an incredible chance to:
- Expand your academic network in the UK.
- Conduct high-quality research in world-class facilities.
- Boost your career prospects by gaining international exposure.
- Address critical development challenges and contribute meaningfully to your field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I bring dependents with me during the scholarship period?
A: The scholarship does not cover dependent expenses.
Q2: Can I apply if I am in the first year of my PhD?
A: Yes, as long as your UK research aligns with your ongoing PhD.
Q3: Are there age restrictions for applicants?
A: No, but candidates must be actively enrolled in a PhD program.
Q4: How competitive is this scholarship?
A: It is highly competitive; strong academic and research credentials are crucial.
Q5: Can I choose any UK university for my research?
A: Only if the university and a supervisor agree to support your application.
Official Link for More Details and Application
Visit the Official CSC Website for updated information and application instructions.