Entries open for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
The prestigious Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) are back for the 2026/2027 cycle, offering life-changing, fully funded two-year Master’s degrees to talented individuals from low- and middle-income Commonwealth nations. This isn’t just a scholarship—it’s an active investment in the next generation of leaders who are determined to drive sustainable development, tackle shared global challenges, and strengthen ties across the 56-member Commonwealth family.
More than funding, QECS is a transformative experience: you’ll live in a new country, immerse yourself in a different culture, forge lifelong international friendships, and join an influential global network of over 1,000 alumni who are already making their mark as ministers, CEOs, activists, academics, and innovators. Wherever you go, you’ll return home equipped not only with a world-class degree but with the vision, skills, and connections to create real impact.
About the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
Launched in 2018 as part of the Commonwealth’s commitment to education and youth empowerment, the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships are administered by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) on behalf of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and partner governments. Named in honour of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s lifelong dedication to the Commonwealth, the programme deliberately targets students who might otherwise never have the chance to pursue postgraduate study abroad.
QECS deliberately places scholars in middle-income Commonwealth countries rather than traditional study destinations like the UK, Canada, or Australia. This unique “South-South” approach fosters regional collaboration, reduces brain drain, and ensures knowledge flows directly between nations that face similar development challenges. Past host countries have included Fiji, Malaysia, Mauritius, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda—each offering high-quality, English-medium Master’s programmes in fields ranging from climate resilience and public health to engineering, education, and governance.
What the Scholarship Covers – 100% Funded
Every award is comprehensive and removes all major financial barriers:
- Full tuition fees for the entire two-year Master’s programme
- Monthly living stipend (adjusted to local cost of living)
- Return economy airfare from your home country
- One-time arrival allowance to help you settle in
- Research support grant (available on request and subject to approval)
- Access to dedicated scholar events, leadership training, and the global QECS alumni network
There are no bond requirements—you are free to return home or pursue opportunities anywhere after graduation.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is open to:
- Citizens or individuals with refugee status from any Commonwealth member country (full list available on the official site)
- Applicants who already hold (or will hold by the start of the programme) at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent)
- Passionate individuals committed to creating positive change in their communities
- No upper age limit—applications from early-career professionals are especially welcome
Only courses and universities listed for the 2026/2027 cycle are eligible (new host institutions and programmes are announced each cycle).
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Explore the official list of host countries, universities, and available Master’s programmes for this cycle.
- Confirm you meet the 2:1 (or equivalent) academic requirement.
- Visit the university’s own website to check specific course details, entry requirements, and application deadlines.
- Create a free myACU account (or log in if you already have one).
- Submit your QECS application through the official portal by clicking “Apply Now” for your chosen university/course.
- Separately apply for admission directly to the university (most universities require both applications).
Deadline for all QECS applications: 14 January 2026 at 15:00 UTC University admission deadlines may be earlier—start both processes as soon as possible.
This is your chance to earn a world-class Master’s degree, live in a new Commonwealth country, and become part of a powerful network that is shaping a fairer, more sustainable future.
