Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2027-28 – Cycle 1

QECS is run by the Association of Commonwealth Universities and funded through the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships trust, a separate scheme from the UK’s Commonwealth Scholarship Commission awards. It was launched in 2019. The awards support a two-year master’s degree at an ACU member university in a low- or middle-income Commonwealth country other than the applicant’s home country. The scholarships aim to build skills for tackling shared challenges, encourage cultural exchange between Commonwealth countries, and create a network of scholars. Applications are made through the ACU’s online portal, and you also apply separately to your chosen university for admission to the course. There are two application cycles each year, one opening around November and one around March or April.

1. Full tuition fees.
2. A living allowance for the length of the award.
3. Return economy flights to the host country.
4. A one-off arrival allowance.
5. A research support grant, on request only and subject to approval.
6. No application fee.

1. You must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country, or hold refugee status in one.
2. You must hold an undergraduate degree, with a 2:1 or equivalent reported by several sources. Check the ACU page for the exact level.
3. You must apply for an eligible master’s course at one of the universities offered in the current cycle. Only courses listed for the cycle count.
4. You cannot study in your own country, since the award is for study abroad within the Commonwealth.
5. You should be committed to creating change in your community.
6. There is no upper age limit.
7. Each university can have its own admission requirements.