The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) provide a unique opportunity for students to pursue a two-year Master’s degree in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country. These scholarships are specifically designed for individuals who are passionate about creating positive change in their communities. It offers a life-changing experience, allowing students to study abroad, immerse themselves in a new culture, broaden their perspectives, and build a global network that can last a lifetime.
QECS scholars are not only given the chance to further their education but also to contribute to academic collaboration and cultural exchange, which help to address the shared challenges faced by both their home countries and those that host them. By becoming part of the Commonwealth network, these scholars play an active role in shaping its future and making a difference worldwide.
There are two opportunities to apply for the QECS each year: cycle 1, which opens in November/December, and cycle 2, which opens in March/April. You only need to submit one application, but if you are interested in studying in another country, you are welcome to apply again during the second cycle.
Benefits of the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
- Fully-funded Tuition Fees:
The scholarship covers all tuition fees for the duration of the Master’s degree programme, ensuring that students can focus on their studies without the financial burden of educational costs. - Living Allowance (Stipend):
Scholars receive a living allowance for the entire duration of the award, which helps cover everyday expenses such as accommodation, food, and local transportation. - Return Economy Flights to Host Country:
The scholarship provides return economy flights to the host country, allowing students to travel to and from their home country without additional costs. - One-off Arrival Allowance:
Upon arrival in the host country, scholars receive a one-off allowance to help with initial expenses, such as setting up accommodation and settling in. - Research Support Grant:
Scholars may request a research support grant, which is subject to approval. This grant can assist with any research-related expenses during the scholarship period.
Eligible Universities
- Eswatini
- University of Eswatini
Programs: MA African Languages and Linguistics, MA History, MSc Animal Science, MSc Computer Science, MSc Textiles, and more.
Course Start Date: 18/08/2025
Contact: bodlamini@uneswa.ac.sz
- University of Eswatini
- Jamaica
- University of the West Indies (UWI)
Programs: LLM Competition Law, MSc Data Science, MSc Food Science and Technology, MSc Renewable Energy Technology, and more across four campuses.
Course Start Date: 24/08/2025
Contact: gsr@uwi.edu
- University of the West Indies (UWI)
- Kenya
- Technical University of Kenya (TUK)
Programs: MSc Applied Parasitology, MSc Computational Chemistry, MSc Food Science and Technology, MSc Medical Physics, and more.
Course Start Date: 01/10/2025
Contact: admissions@tukenya.ac.ke
- Technical University of Kenya (TUK)
- Malaysia
- Universiti Malaya (UM)
Programs: Refer to the university website for approved courses. Clinical programs are not covered.
Course Start Date: 07/10/2025
Contact: study@um.edu.my - Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
Programs: MSc Accounting, MSc Agribusiness, MSc Marketing, MSc Social Psychology, and more.
Course Start Date: 30/09/2025
Contact: pg_admission@upm.edu.my
- Universiti Malaya (UM)
- Tanzania
- State University of Zanzibar (SUZA)
Programs: MBA in Finance, MSc Chemistry, MSc Natural Resource Management and Climate Change.
Course Start Date: 15/10/2025
Contact: abdalla.ibrahim@suza.ac.tz
- State University of Zanzibar (SUZA)
- Uganda
- Makerere University
Programs: MSc Civil Engineering, MSc Food Safety and Quality Management, MSc Renewable Energy.
Course Start Date: 15/08/2025
Contact: drgt@rgt.mak.ac.ug
- Makerere University
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality:
Applicants must be citizens of a low or middle-income Commonwealth country. - Age:
Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. - Educational Qualifications:
Applicants must hold a relevant undergraduate degree or its equivalent for the Master’s programme they are applying for. - Language Proficiency:
Applicants must meet the language requirements of the university and the chosen course. - Program-Specific Requirements:
Check the specific entry requirements of the university and course you are applying for.
From Our Channel
Application Process
- Browse the List of Eligible Countries and Universities:
Start by reviewing the list of countries and universities offering scholarships for this cycle. - Visit University Websites:
Use the provided links to visit the relevant university website for more information about the courses and specific entry requirements. - Complete the QECS Application:
Click on the “Apply now” button to submit your QECS application. You will be directed to a login page. If you don’t have a myACU account, click “Get started” to begin your application process. - Submit a University Application:
Alongside the scholarship application, you must submit a separate application to the university for admission to your chosen course.
Selection Process
- Application Review:
Applications are assessed based on four key criteria:- Academic history and references
- Plan of study
- Development impact and post-study outreach
- Ability to create networks
- Eligibility Check:
Applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility requirements, provide clear personal statements, and submit detailed references and academic documents. - Outcome Notification:
- Cycle 1 (courses starting in July–October): Results are announced by July of the award year.
- Cycle 2 (courses starting in January–February): Results are announced by October before the award year.
- Feedback:
Unsuccessful applicants will not receive individual feedback but should ensure they follow all application instructions and meet all criteria.
Duration
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) offer a two-year Master’s degree in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country.
Deadline
Applications for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships close on 14 January 2025.
