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The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship program stands as a beacon of educational empowerment and international collaboration. Managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC), this initiative holds the fundamental objective of providing talented individuals from Commonwealth countries access to high-quality postgraduate education in the United Kingdom. The program aims to equip scholars with the knowledge, skills, and leadership qualities necessary to make tangible contributions to the development of their home countries.
Program Overview
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship 2024/2025 is part of the wider Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), reflecting the enduring commitment of the UK to the Commonwealth. This initiative aligns with the UK government’s international development goals by attracting individuals with exceptional potential from diverse backgrounds and supporting their journey to become future leaders and innovators upon their return.
Requirements and Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for this prestigious scholarship, candidates must fulfill specific eligibility criteria:
- Citizenship or refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Permanent residency in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Availability to commence academic studies in the UK by September 2024.
- Possession of a first-degree classification of at least upper second-class honors (2:1) or a lower second-class degree with a relevant postgraduate qualification.
- Limited prior study or work experience in a high-income country.
- Inability to afford UK study without the scholarship.
- Submission of all necessary supporting documentation in the required format.
Application Process
Applicants’ submissions will be assessed based on academic merit, the quality of their research proposals, and the potential impact on the development of their home countries. It is crucial for candidates to align their application responses with the specified selection criteria outlined by the CSC.
The application process involves several crucial steps:
- Selection of Courses and Universities: Applicants must identify and apply to approved Master’s courses at participating UK universities. A list of these courses and institutions can be found on the CSC website.
- Online Application via CSC: All applications for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship 2024/2025 must be made through the CSC’s online application system. The deadline for submission is 16:00 GMT on Thursday, December 14, 2023.
- Nomination by Universities: Successful universities will nominate their chosen candidates to the CSC in March 2024.
Important Considerations
- Applicants can apply to multiple courses and universities but can only accept one Shared Scholarship offer.
- It is essential to adhere to each university’s application deadlines, admission requirements, and rules for applying.
Closing Date and Contact Information
The closing date for submitting applications for the 2024/2025 academic year is December 14, 2023, at 16:00 GMT. For specific inquiries about the nomination process or scholarship details, applicants are advised to reach out directly to the respective UK universities. General queries regarding Commonwealth Scholarships can be addressed through the CSC’s Contact Us form on their official website.
Further Important Information
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are jointly funded by the CSC and participating UK universities. Each scholarship offers a comprehensive package of financial assistance, including:
- Approved airfare from the scholar’s home country to the UK and return.
- Full coverage of tuition fees.
- Monthly stipends for living expenses, with adjusted rates for scholars in the London metropolitan area.
- Additional grants for study-related travel, thesis preparation, warm clothing, and mandatory health tests.
- Family allowances for scholars with children and support for those with disabilities.
The CSC promotes a policy of equal opportunity and non-discrimination, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds. The commission is committed to supporting scholars who share information about having a disability and provides specific support outlined in the CSC disability support statement.
