The University of Sussex has announced that applications are now open for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships 2026, funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID). These highly competitive awards are designed for exceptional students from least developed and fragile Commonwealth states, offering them the opportunity to pursue doctoral research in the UK starting in September 2026.
The program is part of a long-standing effort to support sustainable development and build academic capacity in eligible countries.
Package of Scholarship
Recipients of the scholarship will receive full overseas PhD tuition fees, a living stipend to cover daily expenses, and return travel to the UK. In addition, awardees will benefit from a Research Training Support Grant to enhance academic work and fieldwork funding where necessary. This comprehensive package ensures that successful candidates can focus entirely on their research without financial burden.
Research Themes
These scholarships are awarded under six broad themes that align with global development priorities:
- Science and technology for development
- Strengthening health systems and capacity
- Promoting global prosperity
- Strengthening global peace, security, and governance
- Strengthening resilience and response to crises
- Access, inclusion, and opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be citizens or hold refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country and be permanent residents there. Eligible countries include: Bangladesh, Cameroon, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, The Gambia, Togo, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Zambia.
Other conditions include:
- Be available to begin studies in the UK in September/October 2026.
- By October 2026, hold at least an upper second-class (2:1) degree, or a second-class degree with a relevant Master’s qualification.
- Must not be registered for a PhD or MPhil leading to a PhD at a UK university before September 2026.
- Must demonstrate financial need and inability to study in the UK without the scholarship.
Apply: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/fees-funding/phd-funding/view/1862-Commonwealth-PhD-Scholarships.
Application Timeline
The Commonwealth Scholarship portal will open for applications on 2 September 2025. The final deadline to submit an application is 15 October 2025 at 16:00 (GMT). Applicants must apply through both the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) online system and a nominating agency in their home country, as the CSC will not accept direct applications.
Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for a PhD place at the University of Sussex in advance, ensuring they have supervisor support and all required documentation ready, including a CV, transcripts, statement of interest, referee details, and IELTS certificate. Applications must also include a Development Impact Statement showing how the proposed research addresses development challenges in line with the scholarship themes.