Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) offer a unique opportunity to study a two-year Master's degree in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country. These scholarships are aimed at students committed to creating positive change in their communities and gaining international exposure.
Through cultural exchange and academic collaboration, QECS scholars help address shared challenges in both their home countries and host countries. Scholars will also become active members of the Commonwealth network and help shape its future.
📌 Table of Contents
Overview
Each year there are two opportunities to apply for QECS – cycle 1 opens in November/December and cycle 2 opens in March/April. You only need to submit one application per cycle, but you can apply again for another country if desired.
Scholarship Benefits
- Fully-funded tuition fees
- Living allowance (stipend) for the duration of the award
- Return economy flights to the host country
- One-off arrival allowance
- Research Support Grant (on request only; subject to approval)
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be a citizen or hold refugee status in a Commonwealth country
- No upper age limit for eligibility
- Must have attained at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) undergraduate degree
Application Deadline
January 14, 2026
How to Apply
- Look through the list of countries and universities hosting scholarships in this cycle. Only listed courses are eligible for funding.
- Ensure you have achieved a 2:1 or equivalent at the undergraduate level.
- Visit the relevant university website for detailed course information.
- Complete and submit a QECS application for your chosen university/course by clicking the “Apply now” button on the university site. Create a myACU account if you do not already have one.
- Submit a separate application to your chosen university for admission to your chosen course.
Funding and Sponsor
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Host Countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Bangladesh, Barbados, Jamaica, Kenya, Mauritius, Uganda
- Degree Level: Masters
- Sponsor: The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU)
Additional Information
Applicants are strongly encouraged to read the application guidance and FAQs pages before starting an application. For detailed information, visit the official Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships page:
Step-by-Step Video Guide
Watch the official step-by-step guide for applying to QECS:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible for QECS?
Citizens or those with refugee status in a Commonwealth country who have a 2:1 or equivalent undergraduate degree.
Is there an upper age limit?
No, there is no age limit for QECS.
What does fully funded cover?
Tuition fees, living stipend, return flights, one-off arrival allowance, and optional research support grant.
Can I apply for multiple countries?
Yes, you can submit a separate application for each country/university you are interested in.
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