In partnership with the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, we provide access to Master’s and PhD Scholarships for those working to improve the lives of LGBTI+ people in the Commonwealth.
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) provides the UK government’s Commonwealth scholarship scheme led by international development objectives. Since 1960, the CSC has funded over 30,000 individuals to study in the UK and gain skills, acquire knowledge and build networks to tackle global development challenges.
The Commonwealth Equality Network has been invited to nominate 10 candidates for Master’s programmes and 5 candidates for PhD programmes as part of the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s scheme, for studies beginning in September 2026.
This is a fully funded opportunity for individuals working with or within LGBTI+ communities in low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to study at a postgraduate level in the UK. These scholarships are aimed at individuals committed to driving development and human rights work in their home countries.
Applications open: 2 September 2025
Deadline: 14 October 2025 at 16:00 GMT
Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships and Commonwealth PhD Scholarships enable talented and motivated individuals to gain the knowledge and skills required for sustainable development and are aimed at those who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK.
By attracting individuals with outstanding talent and identifiable potential from all backgrounds and supporting them to become leaders and innovators on returning to their home countries, the scholarships combine sustainable development with the UK’s national interest and provide opportunities for international partnerships and collaboration.
The scholarship includes full UK university tuition fees, return airfare to and from the UK, a monthly living stipend, a warm clothing allowance (if applicable), a study-related travel grant, and a child allowance for eligible applicants.
To be eligible, applicants must be a citizen of, or granted refugee status by, an eligible Commonwealth country and be permanently resident in a qualifying country. Applicants must hold a relevant undergraduate degree (and a postgraduate qualification for some), demonstrate financial need, and provide academic transcripts and references. PhD applicants must also submit a statement from a UK supervisor.
Additionally, applicants must demonstrate an understanding of the human rights of LGBTI+ people, and demonstrate how their proposed area of study will support the rights of LGBTI+ people and improve their development outcomes.
It is essential to review all eligibility criteria in the full guidance before beginning your application.
Applications will be open from 2 September 2025 to 14 October 2025. Applications are submitted online, additionally candidates will have to submit a written statement their proposed work and its impact on the lives of LGBTI+. For full details on eligibility, how to apply, and nomination requirements, please read the guidance document carefully.
Download the guidance document here:
đź“„ Guidance PDF
For general advice and eligibility information, please visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website and their application advice page.
The Commonwealth Equality Network is hosted by Kaleidoscope Trust, all applicants are recruited in line with its anti-fraud and anti-corruption policies.