The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship (QECS) program is a fully-funded master’s degree scholarship program designed to cultivate the next generation of Commonwealth leaders. A core objective of the program is to address the complex challenges faced by the 54 member nations of the Commonwealth. These challenges range from sustainable development and poverty reduction to promoting democracy and good governance, and fostering peace and security. The QECS program specifically targets individuals who are passionate about addressing these challenges and who demonstrate a strong commitment to making a positive difference in their home countries. Scholars are selected based on their academic merit, leadership potential, and their commitment to sustainable development. The program recognizes that true leadership is not just about academic achievement, but also about a genuine desire to serve others and contribute to the betterment of society.
Through a rigorous academic curriculum, practical skill-building opportunities, and a focus on global networking, the QECS program equips scholars with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to become effective changemakers. The program offers scholarships for Master’s study in a wide range of disciplines relevant to the needs of the Commonwealth. This allows scholars to pursue studies in areas aligned with their passions and career aspirations, while also addressing critical development priorities within the Commonwealth. Whether your interests lie in engineering and technology, education and social policy, public health or environmental sustainability, the QECS program offers a pathway to turn your passion into action and contribute to a more just and equitable world.
For example, a QECS scholar with a background in engineering might pursue a Master’s degree in renewable energy, with the goal of developing sustainable energy solutions in their home country. An aspiring educator might choose to study curriculum development and educational leadership, with a focus on improving access to quality education for all children. A public health professional could leverage a scholarship to study epidemiology or global health, to better equip themselves to address public health challenges in their community. These are just a few examples of the many ways that QECS scholars are using their education and skills to make a positive impact on the world.
Benefits of the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship Program:
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship Program offers a comprehensive package of benefits to support scholars throughout their academic journey. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Full Tuition Fees: The program covers the entirety of your tuition fees at your chosen Commonwealth university.
- Living Allowance (Stipend): You’ll receive a monthly stipend to cover your living expenses while studying in a host country.
- Return Economy Flights: The program will cover the cost of your return economy airfare to and from your home country.
- One-off Arrival Allowance: A one-time payment to help with initial settling-in costs.
- Research Support Grant (on request only; subject to approval): Financial assistance may be provided for research projects related to your studies.
Scholarship Summary:
- Level of Study: Master’s Degree
- Institutions: Universities in Commonwealth countries (other than your home country)
- Study in: A Commonwealth country (other than your home country)
- Important Note: 24th May 2024 (Cycle 2)
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship Program, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country
- Possess a first degree from a recognized university (usually a bachelor’s degree with at least upper second class or a good second class honors)
- Be domiciled (ordinarily resident) in a Commonwealth country for at least two years before the application deadline (with some exceptions)
- Be unable to study for your chosen master’s degree program in your home country
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to returning to your home country after completing your studies and using your acquired knowledge and skills to contribute to its development
Documents Required:
The application process for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship Program is competitive. To ensure your application is complete, you will need to submit the following documents (specific requirements may vary slightly):
- Completed application form
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum vitae (resume)
- Outline of your proposed master’s degree study program
- Two letters of recommendation (one academic and one professional)
- A signed statement from your nominating institution
Application Process:
The application process for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship Program is typically a two-step process. Here’s a general outline:
- Nominating Institution: Applications must be submitted through a nominating institution in your home country. Contact your local Ministry of Education or National Scholarship Authority to find out which institution is responsible for nominating candidates in your country.
- Application Submission: Once you have been nominated by your institution, you will be able to submit your application online through the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship Commission portal.