Applications for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships for the 2026/27 academic year are now open. The scholarships are for study in the UK beginning in September/October 2026.
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) is offering full scholarships to South African students to undertake one-year, full-time taught Master’s programmes at UK universities or higher education institutions with which the CSC has a part-funding agreement.
These scholarships aim to empower talented and motivated individuals who would not otherwise be able to afford to study in the UK, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for sustainable development.
For full details, visit: Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
One-year taught Master’s programmes
The closing date for applications (including all supporting documentation) is Tuesday, 21 October 2025 at 16:00 British Summer Time (BST).
Applicants are requested, if possible, to submit their applications between 21:00 to 06:00 BST as the system is quieter during these times.
To apply for these scholarships, you must:
The CSC would not under normal circumstance fund a second UK Master’s degree. If candidates are applying for a second UK Master’s degree, they will need to provide strong justification as to why they wish to undertake this study.
The awards are offered under six development themes:
The CSC does not fund MBAs.
Visit https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/csc-development-themes/ to read more about the development themes.
Each scholarship provides:
Note: The CSC’s family allowances are intended to only be used as a contribution towards the cost of maintaining your family in the UK. The true costs are likely to be considerably higher. You must be able to supplement these allowances to support any family members who come to the UK with you.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is a nominating agency for South African citizens. Applicants must select "South Africa: Higher Education and Training" in the online application.
All applications must be submitted through the CSC’s online application system (no paper applications or late submissions accepted).
Note: Please note that all candidates are recruited in line with the CSC's anti-fraud policy and procedure which can be viewed here.
The CSC does not charge candidates who apply for any of its scholarships or fellowships through its online application system and it does not charge organisations to nominate candidates its programmes.
Applications will be considered according to the following selection criteria:
Further general conditions, information and guidelines can be found on the CSC website.
The final selection will be made by the CSC and candidates can expect to receive the outcome of their applications by July 2026.
For general enquiries about applying for Commonwealth Scholarships or Fellowships; please use the Contact us form. Should you experience any technical issues, please contact info@cscuk.org.uk
Commonwealth Scholarship Commission Programme Page
Handbook for Commonwealth Scholars
Please note that this opportunity is not offered by the Department of Higher Education and Training. Applicants are required to undertake their own research into programmes and institutions and are responsible for ensuring that the qualifications will be recognised in South Africa by contacting the South African Qualifications Authority and the relevant professional bodies. If there are any discrepancies in the details provided, the information given by the sponsor supersedes the details provided above. No additional financial support will be provided by the Department of Higher Education and Training.