Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships 2026

The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) offer a unique opportunity to study a two-year Master's degree in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country.

Aimed at students who are committed to creating change in their communities, the scholarships are a life-changing opportunity to experience a new country and culture, to broaden horizons, and to build a global network that will last a lifetime.

Through cultural exchange and academic collaboration, Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholars help bring about positive change and find solutions to the shared challenges we face - both in their home countries and those that host them. As an active part of the Commonwealth network, scholars will help shape its future.

Each year there are two opportunities to apply for QECS – cycle 1 opens in November/December and cycle 2 opens in March/April. You only need to submit one application, but you are welcome to apply more than once if there is another country you are interested in studying in.

Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships Benefits

Fully-funded tuition fees

Living allowance (stipend) for duration of award

Return economy flights to host country

One-off arrival allowance

Research Support Grant (on request only; subject to approval)

We strongly advise all applicants to read the the application guidance and FAQs pages before starting an application.

Requirements for Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships

Citizens (or those who hold refugee status) in a Commonwealth country are welcome to apply.

There is no upper age limit to be eligible for a QECS Award.

You must have attained a minimum of 2:1 (or equivalent) at undergraduate level to be eligible to apply.

Application Deadline

January 14, 2026

How to Apply

Look through the list of countries and universities hosting scholarships in this cycle. Please note that only the courses listed are eligible for scholarship funding.

You must have obtained a 2:1 to be able to apply for the scholarship.

Visit the relevant university website for more information on your chosen course using the links included below.

Complete and submit a QECS application for your chosen university/course by clicking the ‘Apply now’ button. Once you’ve clicked apply, you’ll be directed to a log in page. If you don't already have a myACU account, please create a new account to get started.

Submit an application to your chosen university for admission to your chosen course.

For more information, kindly visit Queen Elizabeth Commonweatlh webpage.