What is the Commonwealth Scholarship?
The Commonwealth Scholarship, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, is one of the most prestigious and competitive awards for students from Commonwealth countries, including India.
It provides fully-funded scholarships for talented students to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees in the UK, in most cases, with the goal of fostering global development and knowledge exchange. For Indian students, this scholarship is a life-changing chance to access world-class education in the UK without financial barriers and to upgrade their careers abroad.
The Commonwealth Scholarship Alumni Network includes Prime Ministers, Nobel Prize winners, academics, diplomats, writers, and leaders of major NGOs and businesses. Upon completing their Scholarship tenure, recipients become part of a vibrant global community of scholars.
Why Indian Students Choose the Commonwealth Scholarship
- Fully funded support covering tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and more.
- Open to a wide range of subjects including science, engineering, social sciences, health, and development-related studies.
- Focus on global development – preference for candidates who will use their skills for national development.
- Strong alumni network with global leaders, researchers, and professionals.
Commonwealth Scholarship 2025 – Benefits for Indian Students
- Full tuition fee coverage for UK universities.
- Monthly living allowance (stipend) to cover accommodation and living costs.
- Airfare from India to the UK and back.
- Warm clothing allowance for winter expenses.
- Study travel grant to support academic-related travel.
- Family allowances (if applicable for PhD scholars).
Eligible Areas of Study for Commonwealth Scholarships
The scholarship typically funds full-time Master’s and PhD programmes in the UK. Priority is given to fields that align with sustainable development and social impact. All Commonwealth Scholarships are offered under six CSC development themes.
- Science and technology for development
- Strengthening health systems and capacity
- Promoting global prosperity
- Strengthening global peace, security and governance
- Strengthening resilience and response to crises
- Access, inclusion and opportunity
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
To apply for the Commonwealth Scholarship 2025, Indian students must:
- Be a citizen of India.
- Have completed an undergraduate degree with strong academic performance (normally first-class or upper second-class honours equivalent).
- Should have potential and desire to contribute to India’s development upon course completion.
- English language requirements as per university standards.
Tips for Indian Applicants
- Align with national development goals – Your application should clearly demonstrate how your studies will contribute to national advancement and the wider Commonwealth. Highlight your plans to apply your knowledge and skills post-study to drive national development upon course completion.
- Show social commitment – A strong personal statement showing the student’s motivation to create positive social impact can significantly improve your chances of selection.
- Focus on high-demand sectors – Priority areas include health, climate change, governance, and education.
If you’re an ambitious Indian student with a passion for impact, the Commonwealth Scholarship 2025 can turn your UK study dream into reality!
Application Facilitation Services
Despite the intense global competition and the large number of applications from around the world, the British Council-certified experts at Edroots International will guide you through applying for Commonwealth Scholarships via the Sakshat Portal of the Government of India for the upcoming intake with ease. From selecting the right courses to preparing a compelling application, we ensure the process is smooth and hassle-free, giving you the best chance of securing this prestigious opportunity.
Connect with Edroots International to explore participating universities, check your eligibility, and begin your application today.
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