The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) offer a transformative opportunity for students dedicated to driving change in their communities. This scholarship supports a two-year Master's degree in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country, fostering cultural exchange and academic collaboration.

Key Dates and Overview

The application window for cycle 2 is now open, providing a chance to pursue higher education in a new cultural setting. The application period opens on 16 April 2025 and closes at 15:00 UTC on 4 June 2025. Ensure timely submission to be considered for this prestigious scholarship.

This scholarship aims to cultivate future leaders who will contribute to solving global challenges within the Commonwealth network. By participating, scholars will broaden their horizons and establish a lasting global network.

There are typically two application cycles each year, one in November/December and another in March/April. Applicants are welcome to apply in multiple cycles if interested in studying in different countries.

Scholarship Benefits

The QECS scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to successful applicants. This includes fully-funded tuition fees, ensuring access to quality education without financial burden. A living allowance (stipend) is provided for the duration of the award to cover living expenses.

Scholars also receive return economy flights to the host country, facilitating travel to and from their study destination. A one-off arrival allowance helps with initial settling-in costs. A Research Support Grant may be available upon request and subject to approval, aiding in research-related expenses.

These benefits collectively aim to remove financial barriers and enable scholars to focus on their academic pursuits and personal development. This support allows scholars to fully immerse themselves in their studies and contribute meaningfully to their fields.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria. While specific eligibility requirements can vary slightly depending on the host university and course, general requirements typically include:

• Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (excluding the host country).
• Hold a Bachelor's degree of a sufficient standard to gain entry to a postgraduate degree program.
• Apply for a Master's course at a participating university in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country.

Applicants should carefully review the specific eligibility criteria for their chosen university and course before applying. Meeting these requirements is essential for consideration.

How to Apply

The application process involves several key steps. First, review the list of countries and universities offering scholarships in the current cycle, noting that only listed courses are eligible for funding. Then, visit the university website for detailed information on your chosen course.

Next, complete and submit a QECS application through the provided online portal. You'll need to create a myACU account if you don't already have one. Simultaneously, submit an application to your chosen university for admission to your selected course.

Ensure all application materials are submitted by the deadline of 4 June 2025. Careful attention to detail and adherence to instructions are crucial for a successful application.

Suggested Research Topics

The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships support a wide range of research areas. Here are some relevant topics for academic research:

• Public Health: Research on disease prevention, healthcare access, and health policy in Commonwealth countries.
• Sustainable Development: Studies on renewable energy, environmental conservation, and sustainable agriculture.
• Education and Social Justice: Research on educational equity, social inclusion, and human rights.
• Engineering and Technology: Innovations in infrastructure, telecommunications, and digital technologies.
• Agricultural Science: Focus on food security, crop improvement, and sustainable farming practices.