Commonwealth Professional Fellowship
Study in the UK with Full Financial Support
Country Focussed
United Kingdom
Scholarship Type
Merit Based
Organising Entity
Department for International
Development (DFID)
Scholarship Coverage
Partly Funded
Commonwealth Professional Fellowship
The Commonwealth Professional Fellowship is a prestigious program designed to empower mid-career professionals from across the Commonwealth. By providing an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and skills in the UK, the fellowship strengthens leadership and knowledge transfer in vital sectors. It not only enhances professional development but also fosters long-term partnerships between Commonwealth countries and the United Kingdom.
Link – http://cscuk.dfid.gov.uk/apply/professional-fellowships/commonwealth-professional-fellowships/
Why Study in the UK?
Studying in the UK offers a world-class education, globally recognized degrees, and access to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, UK institutions foster critical thinking and academic excellence. The multicultural environment, wide range of courses, and post-study work opportunities like the Graduate Route – make the UK an attractive destination for Indian students seeking quality education and career growth on a global scale.
Everything You Need to Know about the Commonwealth Professional Fellowship
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Commonwealth Professional Fellowship, candidates must meet a set of specific requirements. These criteria ensure that only professionals with relevant background and potential benefit from the program:
1. Residency and Status
- Applicants must either be permanent residents of an eligible Commonwealth country or hold refugee status in such a country.
- British Protected Persons are also eligible.
2. Work Experience
- Applicants must demonstrate at least five years of full-time, relevant work experience.
- Equivalent part-time professional experience may also be considered.
- Voluntary work is not included under this requirement.
3. Employment Requirement
- Applicants must be currently employed in a field relevant to the fellowship program.
- This ensures the skills gained will directly contribute to their professional role.
4. Re-application Rule
Applicants who have already received a Commonwealth Professional Fellowship within the last five years are not eligible to apply again.
5. Professional Standing
The fellowship is intended for individuals who are already established professionals and seek to expand their knowledge, leadership, and influence.
Organising Entity
Department for International Development (DFID), United Kingdom
Is it Country Focused?
Yes. This fellowship is open exclusively to citizens and residents of eligible Commonwealth countries or individuals who hold refugee status in these countries.
Is it University Focused?
No specific university is mandated. Students can choose any university worldwide (especially in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia), as long as the program aligns with the goals of sustainable energy development and meets the academic criteria set by GSEP.
Type of Scholarship
Merit-Based
Selection is based on professional experience, leadership potential, and the relevance of the fellowship program to the applicant’s career and country development.
Number of Students Selected
Varies. The number of fellowships awarded each year depends on funding availability, host organization capacity, and program demand. While the fellowship does not fix a strict quota, it consistently supports a significant number of professionals annually across diverse Commonwealth countries.
What are the Benefits Available
The Commonwealth Professional Fellowship is highly rewarding, offering comprehensive financial and logistical support to ensure fellows can focus on professional development without concerns about costs. Benefits include:
Travel Support
Approved return airfare from the fellow’s home country to the UK, fully funded.
Living Allowance
Monthly stipend of £1,696 GBP.For fellows hosted in the London metropolitan area, this increases to £2,104 GBP to cover higher living expenses.
Professional Development Costs
- Up to £2,000 GBP in fees for fellowships lasting up to two months.
- Up to £3,000 GBP in fees for fellowships lasting three months.
- These cover course fees, conferences, and other professional development activities.
Arrival and Settlement Support
A one-time arrival allowance of up to £953.45 GBP, which includes provisions for warm clothing. Reimbursement of the UK standard visa application fee.
Support for Host Organizations
A flat rate contribution of £800 GBP is provided to the host organization to help with administrative and support costs.
Why Apply for the Why Choose the Commonwealth Professional Fellowship?
Practical Experience –
Exposure to real-world projects in UK organizations.
Leadership Training –
Enhanced ability to influence and drive change in home countries.
Cross-Cultural Networking –
Building long-term partnerships with professionals and organizations across the Commonwealth.
Career Advancement –
Improved credentials, international recognition, and a broader outlook for professional growth.
Planning to Study in the UK?
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Final Thoughts
The Commonwealth Professional Fellowship is a transformative program that offers professionals from eligible Commonwealth countries the chance to grow, network, and contribute to global knowledge-sharing. With its fully-funded structure, tailored placements, and emphasis on professional development, it remains one of the most sought-after opportunities for mid-career professionals. Those aspiring to gain international exposure while advancing their careers should consider applying to this life-changing fellowship.
