Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS): Fully Funded Master’s Degrees Across the Commonwealth

The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) offer fully funded opportunities for students to pursue a two-year Master’s degree at selected universities in low and middle-income Commonwealth countries. Managed by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), the programme is designed for students who are committed to making a positive difference in their communities.

QECS places strong emphasis on academic collaboration, cultural exchange, and leadership. Scholars study in a new country, build lasting international networks, and return home with skills and perspectives that support local and global development.

What the Scholarship Covers

The QECS is a fully funded award, which includes:

• Full tuition fees
• A living allowance for the duration of the programme
• Return economy flights to the host country
• A one-time arrival allowance
• A Research Support Grant, available upon request and approval

Who Can Apply

Applicants must meet the academic requirements set by both QECS and the host university. In general:

• A minimum of a 2:1 (upper second class) undergraduate degree is required
• Applicants must apply only to approved courses listed under the QECS cycle
• Candidates should demonstrate commitment to community impact and leadership

Each year, QECS opens two application cycles. For this cycle:

• Applications open: 24 November 2025
• Applications close: 14 January 2026 at 15:00 UTC

Where You Can Study

QECS scholarships are available in a wide range of countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Bangladesh, Jamaica, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Trinidad and Tobago, Eswatini, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, and others. Programmes cover diverse fields such as public health, engineering, data science, climate change, education, agriculture, business, and biotechnology.

How to Apply

Applicants must apply through the QECS system and also submit a separate application for admission to their chosen university and course. Only the courses listed under the QECS cycle are eligible for funding.

Before applying, candidates are strongly advised to read the official application guidance and FAQs to understand requirements and deadlines.

Final Note

The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships are more than financial support. They are a platform for emerging leaders to gain world-class education, contribute to shared solutions, and strengthen ties across the Commonwealth.

For students seeking a fully funded Master’s degree with real impact, QECS remains one of the most valuable opportunities available.