Commonwealth Shared Scholarship

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship represents a powerful partnership between the UK government and Leeds Beckett University to support sustainable development across the Commonwealth. It is specifically designed for motivated individuals who possess the academic merit to thrive in the UK but lack the financial means to pursue their studies independently.

At Leeds Beckett University, this scholarship focuses on development-related Master’s courses. The university seeks candidates who are not only academic achievers but also visionary leaders committed to returning home to implement the skills and knowledge gained during their studies. Because the award is shared, it reflects a deep collaboration in which the university waives tuition while the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) provides for the student's personal welfare and travel. It is a career-defining opportunity that connects students with a global network of alumni, including Nobel Prize winners and heads of state.

• Full Tuition Waiver: 100% of the international tuition fees are covered.
• Monthly Stipend: A living allowance of approximately £1,452 per month (rates reviewed annually).
• Travel Support: Return economy airfare from your home country to the UK.
• Arrival Allowances: Includes a warm clothing allowance and a study travel grant.
• Thesis Grant: Financial assistance toward the cost of preparing your dissertation.
• Visa Support: Reimbursement for the cost of a required Tuberculosis (TB) test.

To be eligible, a candidate must:

• Be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honours standard by September 2026.
• Be unable to afford to study at a UK university without this scholarship.
• Be available to start their academic studies in the UK by September/October 2026.

Level: Postgraduate Taught (Master’s only).

Fields of Study: Limited to courses that align with the CSC Development Themes:

• 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.

Exclusions: Undergraduate degrees, PhD programs, and MBA courses are generally not eligible for the "Shared" scheme.

Leeds Beckett University (LBU) is a hub of professional education located in Leeds, one of the UK’s fastest-growing and most student-friendly cities.

• Employability: LBU is recognised for its high graduate employment rates and practical approach to learning.
• Global Impact: The university is deeply committed to international development and sustainability, making it a natural partner for the Commonwealth Commission.
• Student Experience: With modern campuses and a multicultural student body, LBU provides Commonwealth scholars with a supportive environment to develop both personally and professionally.

• Valid Passport: A scanned copy of the photo page.
• Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of your undergraduate grades.
• Degree Certificate: Proof of your existing university degree.
• Two References: At least one must be an academic reference.
• University Offer Letter: While not always required at the initial CSC application stage, you must apply for admission to the university separately.