🇬🇧 Commonwealth Shared Scholarship 2025 – University of Birmingham UK

Are you an ambitious student from a developing Commonwealth country looking to pursue higher education in the UK? The University of Birmingham, in partnership with the UK Department for International Development (DFID), is offering the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme for the 2025 academic year.

This prestigious scholarship is designed to support talented individuals who lack the financial means to study abroad. Read on to discover the benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and important deadlines for this exceptional opportunity.

Benefits of the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme provides a generous financial package to ensure scholars can focus entirely on their studies without financial stress. The scholarship covers:

• Full Tuition Fees: Complete coverage of tuition costs for your master’s program.
• Monthly Stipend: A maintenance allowance for living expenses during your stay in the UK.
• Return Airfare: Round-trip economy airfare from your home country to the UK.
• Immigration Health Surcharge: Payment for healthcare coverage throughout your study period.
• Arrival Allowance: A one-time grant to assist with initial settlement expenses.
• Thesis Grant: Financial support for thesis preparation and research-related costs.
• Study Travel Grant: Assistance with travel expenses related to your academic requirements.

This comprehensive package ensures that you can fully immerse yourself in your academic journey at the University of Birmingham.

Read also: Best Insurance Options for International Students and Scholarship Holders in Canada

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Nationality: Be a citizen of a developing Commonwealth country (e.g., Bangladesh, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan) and not currently residing or studying in a developed country.
• Previous Education: Must not have previously studied or worked for one year or more in a developed country.
• Financial Need: Demonstrate that you cannot afford to study in the UK without financial assistance.
• Commitment to Return: Agree to return to your home country after completing your degree to contribute to its development. Extensions are only considered for those progressing from a master’s to a PhD under strict conditions.
• English Proficiency: Meet the University of Birmingham’s English language requirements.

Additionally, you must have an offer for one of the following eligible postgraduate programs:

• MA Africa and Development
• MSc Development Policy and Politics
• MSc Conflict, Security and Development
• MSc Clinical Oncology
• MSc Environment, Development and Politics

Application Process

To apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, follow these steps:

1. Apply to the University: Submit your application for one of the eligible master’s programs through the University of Birmingham’s postgraduate application portal.
2. Scholarship Application: Complete the scholarship application via the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship website. Ensure all required documents are submitted before the deadline.

For detailed information, visit the official scholarship announcement.

Important Deadlines

The provisional deadline for applications is 18 December 2025. It’s crucial to submit both your university application and scholarship application before this date to be considered for the scholarship.

Why Choose the University of Birmingham?

The University of Birmingham is renowned for its academic excellence and vibrant international community. By studying here, you’ll benefit from world-class education and have the opportunity to engage with scholars from around the globe.

Conclusion

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme is a life-changing opportunity for students from developing Commonwealth countries. It not only provides financial support but also paves the way for you to make a significant impact in your home country upon your return. Don’t miss this chance to advance your education and contribute to global development.

More Opportunities:

• Radboud Scholarships 2025 for International Students (€15,000+ in Funding)
• Top 5 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Luxembourg 2025
• University of Lincoln’s Africa Scholarship 2025 (Postgraduate Studies)