The Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for ambitious PhD candidates from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries who wish to pursue research and doctoral studies in the United Kingdom. Sponsored by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), this scholarship is aimed at scholars who cannot otherwise afford to study in the UK. This unique program allows scholars to split their study period between their home country and a UK university, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing between the institutions. Designed to contribute to sustainable development, this scholarship supports researchers who aim to create positive impacts in their home countries while enhancing their academic expertise.
The scholarship covers essential costs such as tuition fees, a monthly stipend, travel expenses, and additional allowances for children or disabled scholars. Applicants are assessed based on their academic potential, commitment to development, and research objectives aligned with CSC’s six development themes, such as strengthening health systems and promoting global peace. Below are the important details, benefits, eligibility criteria, and the application process for the Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship.
Details of the Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host Institution: UK universities partnered with the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC). Check them here.
- Program Level: PhD
- Scholarship Duration: One year (extendable based on CSC and university agreements)
Benefits of the Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship
The Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship offers extensive financial and academic support to selected scholars, including:
- Full Tuition Coverage: Tuition fees are fully covered by CSC and the partnered UK institution.
- Monthly Stipend: Scholars receive £1,347 per month, or £1,652 if studying in the London metropolitan area.
- Return Airfare: Funded round-trip tickets from the scholar’s home country to the UK.
- Additional Allowances: Includes a warm clothing allowance, study travel grant, and family allowances (e.g., £576.61 per month for the first child and £143 for the second and third child for single-parent scholars).
- Support for Disabled Scholars: Additional financial support for those who qualify.
Eligibility Criteria for the Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship
To be eligible for the Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship Requirement: Must be a citizen or have refugee status in a Commonwealth country (e.g., Bangladesh, Ghana, India, Nigeria).
- Residency Status: Must reside permanently in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Academic Registration: Must be registered for a PhD at a university in their home Commonwealth country by September 2024.
- University Collaboration: A formal link between the applicant’s home university and the UK university is required, supported by both institutions’ supervisors.
- Educational Qualifications: Must hold a first degree of at least an upper second-class standard or a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a Master’s degree).
- Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate financial need for this scholarship.
How to Apply for the Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship
To apply for the Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship, follow these steps:
- Choose a UK Institution: Select a UK university that has a funding partnership with CSC.
- Submit via CSC Online Application System: Complete the application on the CSC’s official online application portal.
- Provide Supporting Documents: Required documents include proof of citizenship or refugee status, academic transcripts, supporting statements from both home and UK supervisors, and two references.
Note: Applications not submitted through the CSC system will be ineligible.
Documents Required
- Copy of valid passport or national ID.
- Complete academic transcripts and any ongoing course details.
- Signed supporting statements from both home and UK supervisors.
- Two reference letters on official letterhead.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship applications is December 5, 2024. Late applications will not be accepted, so applicants are encouraged to complete and submit all documents well in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible for the Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship?
Applicants from eligible Commonwealth countries who are registered for a PhD and meet academic and residency requirements.
How can I apply for the Commonwealth Split Site scholarship?
Submit your application via the CSC’s online application system, including all required documents.
What expenses does the Commonwealth Split Site scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers tuition, monthly stipend, travel expenses, and additional allowances.
Can scholars bring family members to the UK on Commonwealth Split Site Scholarship?
Yes, single-parent scholars receive child allowances for up to three children.
Is there an age limit for the Commonwealth Split Site scholarship?
There is no age limit; however, applicants should check their employer’s leave policies if employed.
What are the CSC’s six development themes?
The themes include health, science, governance, resilience, inclusion, and crisis response.
