Commonwealth Split-Site Scholarships 2024

Fully Funded PhD Opportunity – The Commonwealth Split-Site Scholarships 2024 provide an incredible opportunity for candidates from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to conduct cutting-edge research in the UK. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), this fully funded PhD program supports promising researchers to access world-class facilities and expertise in the UK, fostering collaboration between their home universities and UK institutions.

Successful candidates benefit from financial support, mentorship, and a platform to make significant contributions to global development goals. With its focus on sustainability and leadership, this scholarship is ideal for doctoral candidates committed to driving positive change in their communities. Applications close on December 16, 2024, so start preparing your documents today to seize this life-changing opportunity.

About the Institution/Organization

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) administers the UK government’s scholarship programs, focusing on international development and fostering global partnerships. Funded by the FCDO, the CSC operates under the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), highlighting the UK’s commitment to supporting Commonwealth countries.

The program aims to bridge global education gaps by empowering talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. It connects future leaders and innovators with opportunities for academic and professional growth, promoting sustainable development and fostering long-term partnerships.

Scholarship Information

The Commonwealth Split-Site Scholarship is designed for PhD candidates registered at universities in eligible Commonwealth countries. It allows recipients to spend 12 months at a UK university, gaining access to specialized resources and expertise unavailable in their home countries.

Benefits:

• Airfare: Covers travel expenses from the home country to the UK and return.
• Tuition fees: Fully covered.
• Monthly stipend: £1,347 or £1,652 (for students in London).
• Study travel grant: For research-related travel within the UK or abroad.
• Family support:
  • £576.61 per month for the first child.
  • £143 per month for additional children under 16.

Eligibility:

• Citizenship or refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Registration for a PhD program in a Commonwealth country.
• Institutional link between the home and UK universities.
• Start date of September 2024.

Fields of Study:

Applications are welcomed from all disciplines, with a preference for research addressing development challenges in applicants’ home countries.

Eligible Countries

This scholarship is available to candidates from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries, as classified by the OECD Development Assistance Committee.

Fully Funded or Partial

This is a fully funded scholarship covering tuition, travel, living costs, and additional allowances.

Program Duration

The scholarship covers 12 months of research at a UK university during the recipient’s PhD program.

Visa Information

Scholarship recipients are responsible for securing a UK visa. The CSC provides guidance and support during the application process, including documentation requirements such as proof of funding and acceptance by a UK university.

Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Eligibility:
   • Be a citizen, refugee, or British Protected Person in a Commonwealth country.
   • Be a permanent resident of a Commonwealth country.
2. Academic Qualifications:
   • Hold a first-degree equivalent to at least upper second-class honors (2:1) or a lower second-class degree with relevant postgraduate qualifications.
3. Registration:
   • Be registered for a PhD in their home country by September 2024.
4. Institutional Link:
   • Have an existing academic or departmental link between their home university and the proposed UK institution.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply:

1. Prepare Required Documents:
   • A copy of a valid passport or national ID card.
   • Academic transcripts and certificates (with translations if not in English).
   • References from two referees, signed and on institutional letterhead.
   • Supporting statements from both the home and proposed UK supervisors.
2. Submit Your Application:
   • Access the application system via CSC Central.
   • Complete the form and upload all required documents.
   • Double-check entries before submitting, as incomplete applications will be ineligible.
3. Technical Support:
   • If you encounter issues, contact the CSC at [email protected].
4. Additional Resources:
   • Refer to the CSC’s application template and technical guidance for detailed instructions.

Commonwealth Split-Site Scholarships 2024

Application Deadline

Applications close on December 16, 2024, at 16:00 GMT. Late submissions will not be accepted.

FAQs

1. Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
   Applicants must be citizens or refugees in eligible Commonwealth countries, registered for a PhD in their home country.
2. What expenses are covered under this scholarship?
   The scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, monthly stipends, and family allowances.
3. Is there a preference for specific fields of study?
   While all fields are welcome, priority is given to research with strong relevance to development.
4. How can I ensure my application is complete?
   Ensure all required documents are uploaded, including references and supporting statements, and submit via CSC Central.
5. Can I apply if I am not currently registered for a PhD?
   No, applicants must already be registered for a PhD at a university in a Commonwealth country.