🇬🇧 40 Fully Funded UK Scholarships: Chevening SIDS & Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) SIDS

Dreaming of studying in the UK with everything paid for? Here’s your chance. The UK government has just announced a groundbreaking opportunity for bright students from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) — with up to 40 fully funded Master’s scholarships on offer for the 2026 intake under two prestigious programmes: the Chevening SIDS Scholarships and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) SIDS Scholarships.

   

This new initiative, confirmed after the UK’s promise at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, aims to build leadership and strengthen economies in countries that often face unique climate and economic challenges.

What Do These Scholarships Cover?

If selected, you’ll receive a complete package that takes the stress off your shoulders:

• Full tuition fees paid at any UK university
• Monthly stipend to cover living costs
• Return airfare to the UK
• Invitations to exclusive events and workshops
• Entry into global alumni networks and funding for post-study projects
• Plus, a chance to contribute to future UK-SIDS programmes once you graduate

This isn’t just about getting a degree — it’s a life-changing leadership journey.

1. Chevening SIDS Scholarships – A Tailored UK Experience

Through the world-famous Chevening programme, up to 20 awards are reserved specifically for talented individuals from 25 island nations. All you have to do is apply through the regular Chevening process and tick the box to be considered for the SIDS track.

Countries eligible include: Trinidad and Tobago, Nauru, Maldives, Guyana, Tuvalu, Antigua and Barbuda, Kiribati, Seychelles, Barbados, St Lucia, Fiji, Belize, Singapore, Samoa, Mauritius, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Tonga, St Kitts and Nevis, Papua New Guinea, Bahamas, Solomon Islands, Dominica, Jamaica, and Vanuatu.

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Special Perks:

• A VIP welcome at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)
• Targeted networking with fellow SIDS scholars and policy leaders
• Invitations to events focused on issues that matter most to island nations
• Access to extra project funding through the Chevening Alumni Programme

The best part? Choosing the SIDS track doesn’t reduce your chances of winning a regular Chevening Scholarship. Instead, it increases your exposure and tailored support.

2. Commonwealth SIDS Scholarships – Supporting National Growth

The UK’s Commonwealth Scholarship Commission is also guaranteeing 20 Master’s scholarships specifically for students from SIDS. These follow the usual Commonwealth nomination route, so you’ll apply through your country’s national agency.

For example, students in the Solomon Islands will apply via the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD).

Countries covered under CSC SIDS scholarships include: Nauru, Fiji, Saint Lucia, Maldives, Tuvalu, Grenada, Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Vanuatu, Samoa, Belize, Papua New Guinea, Dominica, Tonga, Montserrat, Jamaica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Guyana, and Mauritius.

You’ll also benefit from dedicated training and workshops designed to build leadership and strategic skills that directly support your country’s growth.

Priority Study Areas – Build Skills Your Country Needs

Applicants are strongly encouraged to choose courses that tackle the most critical challenges for island nations. Key focus areas are:

• Climate Change & Environmental Sustainability
• Economic Recovery & Inclusive Growth
• Human Rights, Governance & the Rule of Law
• Peacebuilding & Community Resilience

By studying in these fields, you’ll return equipped to drive meaningful progress at home.

Important Dates – Mark Your Calendar

• Chevening SIDS Scholarships: Applications open in August 2025 and close in October 2025.
• Commonwealth SIDS Scholarships (CSC): Applications open in September 2025 and close in October 2025.

Tip: You can apply for both to increase your chances, but follow each process carefully.

How to Apply

Get all the details and step-by-step guidance on the UK government page here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/master-scholarships-to-be-available-under-csc-chevening-sids

Remember, applying is completely free. Never pay anyone claiming to “guarantee” a scholarship.

Why This Matters for You

These scholarships aren’t just funding opportunities — they’re your launchpad to influence, leadership and global impact. You’ll gain a world-class education, a network of future changemakers, and the tools to transform your community back home.

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