Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) – 2026/2027

Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) – 2026/2027: Overview

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) has launched a new Master’s Scholarship stream for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). This initiative offers citizens of eligible small island nations the opportunity to pursue fully funded Master’s degrees in the UK, starting from the 2026/2027 academic year.

The program aims to strengthen resilience, prosperity, and sustainable development across the Commonwealth’s small islands.

Eligibility

Applicants must be citizens of one of the following SIDS countries:

• Caribbean & Americas: Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

• Pacific: Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu

• Indian Ocean: Maldives, Mauritius

Applicants must also:

• Apply through their national nominating agency.

• Meet all academic and eligibility requirements set by the CSC and their nominating agency.

• Be available to begin study in the UK in September/October 2026.

Benefits

• 20 fully-funded Master’s scholarships per year (for two years).

• Coverage includes:

  • Full tuition fees

  • Living allowance

  • Airfare to and from the UK

  • Additional allowances (books, thesis, warm clothing, etc.)

• Access to global Commonwealth networks and professional development opportunities.

Fellowship/Program Components

The scholarship contributes to the Commonwealth’s four resilience goals:

1. Strengthening democratic institutions and human rights.

2. Combating climate change through environmental resilience.

3. Building prosperous economies for recovery and growth.

4. Empowering societies for peaceful and productive lives.

Application Requirements

Applicants must:

• Submit applications through both their national nominating agency and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s portal.

• Provide all required academic transcripts, references, and a personal statement.

• Demonstrate a commitment to social impact and sustainable development.

• Attend an interview (if requested).

Selection Criteria

Selection will be based on:

• Academic merit.

• Potential impact of the applicant’s work in supporting development and resilience in their home country.

• Leadership qualities and commitment to the values of the Commonwealth.

Application Process

• Applications Open: 2 September 2025

• Deadline: 14 October 2025 (16:00 UTC+1)

• Notification of Award: July 2026

• Scholarship Start Date: September/October 2026

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) – 2026/2027