Great news for aspiring graduate students from Small Island Developing States (SIDS)! During the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, the UK Government announced a significant scholarship initiative aimed at boosting higher education opportunities for students from SIDS. As part of this commitment, the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) will offer 40 ringfenced Master’s Scholarships over the next two years—specifically for applicants from eligible small island nations.

What Is the Commonwealth SIDS Scholarship Programme?

This Time-Limited Programme (TLP) expands CSC’s existing efforts to support SIDS students, providing greater access to world-class postgraduate education in the UK. The programme also includes a rich array of academic and professional development activities.

In addition to their Master’s studies, selected scholars will participate in a series of events and networking opportunities, including collaborations with Chevening Scholars, coordinated by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). These interactions will focus on the shared challenges and innovative solutions relevant to small island nations.

What Are the Focus Areas for the Scholarships?

To align with the 2024 CHOGM priorities, applicants must choose Master’s programmes that contribute to at least one of the following key themes:

1. Resilient Democratic Institutions
   Supporting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

2. Resilient Environment
   Tackling climate change and promoting environmental sustainability.

3. Resilient Economies
   Enhancing economic recovery, growth, and prosperity.

4. Resilient Societies
   Empowering people to lead peaceful and productive lives.

Courses outside these themes may still be eligible for the general Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships, but will not be considered for the 40 ringfenced SIDS scholarships.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must be citizens of one of the eligible SIDS countries listed below. They must apply through their national nominating agency or a relevant NGO nominating body in their country. Each nominating agency will assess applications and forward nominations to the CSC for final selection.

Eligible SIDS Countries:

• Belize

• Dominica

• Fiji

• Grenada

• Guyana

• Jamaica

• Kiribati

• Maldives

• Mauritius

• Nauru

• Papua New Guinea

• Saint Lucia

• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

• Samoa

• Solomon Islands

• Tonga

• Tuvalu

• Vanuatu

How to Apply

1. Visit and Apply through the Master’s Scholarships page for full application details.

2. Find your nominating agency through the CSC website.

3. Submit your application before the specified deadline through both the CSC online portal and your nominating agency.

Don’t miss this opportunity to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in the UK and help build a more resilient future for your country.