Country Focussed
United Kingdom
Scholarship Type
Merit Based
Organising Entity
UK Department for International
Development (DFID)
Scholarship Coverage
Fully Funded
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships provide talented students from eligible Commonwealth countries, including India, with the opportunity to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom. Funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID), this program aims to support individuals who demonstrate academic excellence but lack the financial means to study in high-income countries. With full coverage of tuition, travel, and living expenses, it ensures that deserving candidates can achieve their educational and career aspirations without financial barriers.
Link – Commonwealth Shared Scholarships – Official Information (British Council)
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 Shared Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships, applicants must meet a clear set of criteria designed to ensure that the program supports the most deserving students. The eligibility requirements include:
1. Citizenship Requirement
Must be a citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country, such as India.
2. Refugee Status
Recognised refugees from Commonwealth countries are also eligible.
3. Academic Timeline
Should be ready to start studies with the UK academic year, typically beginning in September/October 2025 (or relevant admission year).
4. Academic Excellence
Must have achieved at least 75% in a relevant undergraduate or master’s degree.
5. Work/Study Restriction
Candidates should not have worked or studied in a high-income country. This ensures opportunities reach those with limited international exposure.
6. Financial Need
Applicants must demonstrate that they cannot otherwise afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
Organising Entity
UK Department for International Development (DFID), in collaboration with selected UK universities.
Is it Country Focused?
Yes. The program is specifically designed for students from eligible Commonwealth countries, including India.
Is it University Focused?
Yes. The scholarship is available only through participating UK universities, which partner with DFID to host scholarship awardees. Applicants must apply to eligible courses at these institutions to be considered.
Type of Scholarship
Merit-Based
While financial need is considered, academic excellence remains the cornerstone of selection.
Number of Students Selected
The number of students selected each year varies, depending on available funding, the number of participating universities, and the strength of applications. Typically, several hundred students from across the Commonwealth are awarded scholarships annually, including a significant proportion from India.
What are the Benefits Available
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are highly valued for the comprehensive support they provide to students. The funding package includes:
Full Tuition Fee Coverage
All academic fees are completely funded, removing the financial burden of studying abroad.
Living Expenses
A personal maintenance stipend is granted, ensuring that students can meet daily living expenses comfortably.
No Repayment Required
Unlike loans, these benefits are grants, meaning students do not have to repay the funding after completing their course.
Travel Costs
Return airfare to the UK is provided at the start and end of the academic program.
Additional Allowances
In some cases, extra financial support is provided for warm clothing or study-related travel within the UK.
Why Apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship?
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are not just financial support programs; they are gateways to world-class education and global exposure. They allow ambitious students to study at leading UK universities, gain expertise in their chosen fields, and contribute meaningfully to their home countries upon return.
For Indian students, this scholarship is especially valuable because it eliminates the prohibitive cost of international study. By covering tuition, travel, and living costs, it removes the financial stress that often prevents talented individuals from pursuing advanced education abroad.
Additionally, recipients of this scholarship join a prestigious network of Commonwealth alumni, opening doors to professional opportunities, research collaborations, and leadership roles globally.
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Final Thoughts
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships embody the spirit of equal opportunity, bridging the gap between talent and resources. For academically gifted students in India and other Commonwealth countries, this scholarship is a life-changing chance to access the best of UK education without the financial burden.
If you aspire to study in the UK and contribute to global knowledge while serving your home country, this program offers the perfect platform. With its merit-driven selection process, financial inclusivity, and prestigious recognition, it remains one of the most sought-after scholarships for international students in 2025 and beyond.
