The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) offer a fully funded opportunity for students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue a two-year Master’s degree in another Commonwealth nation. These scholarships aim to foster cultural exchange, academic collaboration, and community impact, empowering scholars to drive positive change both locally and globally.
Aimed at individuals dedicated to community impact, the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships program promotes cultural exchange, global networking, and academic collaboration. With two application cycles each year (November/December and March/April), QECS empowers scholars to experience new cultures, tackle global challenges, and contribute to shaping the future of the Commonwealth.Applications are open on 16 April 2025 and will close on 4 June 2025 at 15:00 UTC.
Programs Details
Host Organization: The Associations of Commonwealth Universities
Host Country: Fiji, Mauritius, Papua New Guinea, South Africa, Sri Lanka
Programs: LLM, MSc in Development/Political Science, Theology, Religion
c. University of the Free State
Programs: Master’s in Health, Human Rights, Public Health, Geo-informatics, Physiotherapy, etc.
d. University of Venda
Programs: Master’s in Nursing, Psychology, Public Health, Nutrition
5. Sri Lanka
a. University of Colombo
Programs: MSc in Cellular/Molecular Immunology, Life Sciences
b. University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Program: Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships Benefit
Fully-funded tuition fees
Monthly living allowance (stipend)
Return economy flights to the host country
One-time arrival allowance
Research support grant (available on request and subject to approval)
Benefits Not Included
While QECS covers many expenses, it does not include:
Visa application fees
Health insurance
Eligibility Criteria for Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
1. Fiji – University of the South Pacific (USP)
Entry Requirement: A relevant undergraduate degree with a GPA of 4.0/4.5.
2. Mauritius – University of Mauritius
General Entry Requirements:
Must have completed an undergraduate degree with:
At least 50% marks or Second Class, or
Minimum GPA of 2.5 out of 4, or equivalent.
Qualifications must be from a recognized higher education institution.
Alternative qualifications may be accepted by the University of Mauritius.
Specific Entry Requirements (for Public Health & similar programs):
Medically qualified applicants:
MBBS, MBChB, or equivalent.
Non-medically qualified applicants:
Upper Second Class degree or equivalent, or
BDS degree plus 2 years of experience in:
Public health, health promotion, health administration
Occupational/environmental health
Clinical research or related health fields
Applicants should have:
A strong academic record
Quantitative skills
Background in medicine, health sciences, biological, or environmental sciences
3. Papua New Guinea – University of Technology (PNGUoT)
Entry Requirement:
A merit degree or postgraduate diploma from a recognised tertiary institution.
Or a bachelor’s degree with honours standard (GPA 3 out of 5) from a recognised tertiary institution.
Or a relevant first degree with industry experience of more than two years.
4. South Africa
a. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
Entry Requirement: Refer to individual program pages
b. University of Pretoria
General Entry Requirements
A relevant Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma, or
A relevant Bachelor’s degree at NQF Level 8 (must get SAQA certificate if obtained outside South Africa)
Program-Specific Requirements
Master’s by Dissertation:
Acceptance of a full dissertation or equivalent research outputs (e.g. technical reports, performances, or published articles)
Master’s by Coursework & Mini-dissertation:
Research project worth minimum 60 credits at NQF Level 9, ending with a mini-dissertation or similar
For International Students
Apply to SAQA (www.saqa.org.za) for evaluation of non-South African qualifications
Secure a supervisor before applying (check with faculty if this is required)
Email the department administrator for specific queries
Gather detailed info about your intended program before applying
c. University of the Free State
Entry Requirement: The general requirement for master’s programmes is a relevant honours degree or equivalent on an exit level NQF level 8, with an average of at least 65%.
d. University of Venda
Entry Requirement: An average examination mark of 65% in all honours exam modules or fourth level in a professional bachelor’s degree.
5. Sri Lanka
a. University of Colombo
Entry Requirement: Degree in biological/medical/chemical/agricultural sciences
b. University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Entry requirements :
A recognized bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, commerce, or management with at least a second-class pass.
OR a bachelor’s degree in any field + 1 year of relevant managerial or teaching/research experience.
OR a recognized professional qualification equivalent to a degree + 2 years of relevant experience.
OR substantial senior managerial experience accepted by the university.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following:
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
Two reference letters
Proof of citizenship or residency
Personal statement outlining study plan, development impact, and post-study outreach
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships Application Process
Check the list of eligible countries, universities, and courses
Visit the university website to learn more about your chosen course
Click “Apply Now” on the QECS website and log in or create a myACU account
Complete and submit your QECS scholarship application
Separately, apply for admission to the course at your chosen university
Tips for a Successful Application
Start early to gather all necessary documents
Tailor your personal statement to reflect your commitment to community development
Ensure clarity and coherence in your study plan
Seek feedback on your application from mentors or peers
Double-check all information for accuracy before submission
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (Approximate)
South Africa: $500–$700 USD
Sri Lanka: $300–$500 USD
Mauritius: $600–$800 USD
Fiji: $500–$700 USD
Papua New Guinea: $400–$600 USD
These estimates include accommodation, food, local transport, and personal costs. Actual expenses may vary based on lifestyle and city.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
QECS offers a unique chance to:
Gain a high-quality education in a different cultural context
Develop a global network of peers and professionals
Enhance your skills and knowledge to contribute to your home country’s development
Experience personal growth through international exposure
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply if I already have a Master’s degree? → Yes, as long as you meet the other eligibility criteria, you’re welcome to apply.
Do I need to apply separately to the university? → No, QECS applicants only apply through the QECS portal. Universities will process your admission if selected.
Is there an age limit to apply? → No specific age limit is stated, but you must hold a bachelor’s degree and meet admission requirements.
Can I apply to more than one university or program? → No, each applicant may only apply for one course at one university per application cycle.
Will the scholarship cover my family or dependents? → No, QECS only covers expenses for the awardee. Family costs are not included.
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