Commonwealth Shared Scholarship: Participating UK Universities

Looking to apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship in 2026, you have come to the right place to get the needed information.

With the current exchange rate of the Naira to the Dollar (or even the Pound), the dream of studying in the UK feels like exactly that, just a dream, for most average Nigerian students.

Unless you have a stash of millions somewhere or a rich uncle in politics, paying international tuition fees plus living expenses is almost impossible.

But here is the good news: You don’t need a rich uncle. You need the right information.

If you are a high-achieving student tired of ASUU strikes or just looking for global exposure, the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship might just be your golden ticket.

It is one of the most generous financial aid packages available, offering a full tuition waiver and a monthly stipend that actually makes sense.

In this guide, we are breaking down everything you need to know about the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, the participating UK universities, and how to position yourself to win.

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What is the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship?

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is a joint initiative between the Commonwealth Commission (CSC) and selected UK universities.

Unlike other scholarships where one body foots the bill, here, the cost is shared. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) pays your stipend and airfare, while the university provides a full tuition waiver.

This is specifically a development scholarship. It is designed for students who have the brainpower and the passion to make a change but lack the neccesary funds to study in the UK.

For a Nigerian student, this is arguably better than a loan or partial funding because you graduate debt-free. You can focus on your books without worrying about working 20-hour shifts in a warehouse just to pay school fees.

READ ALSO: 5 Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in USA for Nigerians

Am I Eligible? (Scholarship Eligibility Checklist)

Before you rush to the cscuk apply portal, you need to check if you fit the profile. The competition is stiff, you are competing with the brightest minds from Ghana, Kenya, India, and beyond.

To apply, you must:

1. Be a Citizen: You must be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country (Yes, Nigeria is eligible).
2. Be Permanently Resident: You must be living in Nigeria (or another developing Commonwealth country).
3. Be Available to Start: You must be ready to start your academic year in the UK around September/October.
4. Academic Excellence: You usually need a First Class or a strong Second Class Upper (2:1). Real talk: If you have a 2:2, you will need a very strong Masters degree or relevant work experience to stand a chance.
5. Financial Need: You must certify that you (and your family) cannot afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.

Note: If you have studied or worked for more than one year in a high-income country previously, you are generally not eligible.

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What Does the Scholarship Cover?

This is the “japa” with peace of mind package. The Commonwealth Commission ensures you are comfortable so you can focus on your studies.

• Tuition Fees: 100% paid.
• Airfare: Approved airfare from Nigeria to the UK and back at the end of your award.
• Stipend: A monthly living allowance (stipend). As of recent cycles, this is usually over £1,300 per month (more if you are in London).
• Warm Clothing Allowance: Yes, the UK is cold. They give you money to buy a winter coat!
• Thesis Grant: Allowances towards the cost of preparing a thesis or dissertation.
• Study Travel Grant: Cost of study-related travel within the UK or overseas.

What are the Participating UK Universities?

This is the most critical part. You cannot just apply to any UK university. You must apply to a university that is partnering with the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship scheme for that specific year.

These universities bid for the scholarships, so the list changes slightly every year. However, here are some top institutions that consistently participate:

The “Big Names”

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Imperial College London
• University of Edinburgh
• University of Warwick

Student Favorites (Great Nigerian Communities)

• University of Hull: Known for welcoming international students.
• University of Leeds: A massive hub for Nigerian students.
• University of Bradford: Very strong on development courses.
• Sheffield Hallam University: Great for practical courses.
• Coventry University: A popular choice for business and engineering.

Other Notable Participating Unis

• University of Birmingham
• University of Bristol
• University of Glasgow
• London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)
• University of Reading
• University of Sussex (World #1 for Development Studies)

Pro Tip: Do not just look at the university name. Look at the courses they have listed for the scholarship. You can only apply for specific, pre-approved courses at these universities.

Also: Browse all Masters Scholarships for Nigerians

The Six Development Themes

To win a development scholarship, you can’t just write an essay saying “I want to study because I am smart.” You need to align your goals with the CSC’s six themes.

Your proposed course of study must fall under one of these:

1. Science and technology for development: Think Agriculture, Engineering, or AI.
2. Strengthening health systems and capacity: Public Health, Nursing, Medical research.
3. Promoting global prosperity: Economics, Business, Trade.
4. Strengthening global peace, security and governance: Law, Political Science, Conflict Resolution.
5. Strengthening resilience and response to crises: Environmental Science, Disaster Management.
6. Access, inclusion and opportunity: Education, Gender Studies, Sociology.

When writing your essays, you must explicitly state how your study will help Nigeria achieve development in one of these areas.

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Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship

The application process for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship can be tricky because it involves two sides: The University and the Commission.

1. Check the Official List: Go to the CSC website and look for the “Commonwealth Shared Scholarships” section. Download the list of participating universities and eligible courses.
2. Apply to the University: You must secure admission (or at least apply) to the university first or simultaneously. Check the university’s specific deadline.
3. Apply to the Commission: Visit the cscuk apply portal (online application system). This is where you submit your scholarship essays.
4. Nomination: The university reviews your application. If they like you, they nominate you to the Commonwealth Commission.
5. Final Selection: The Commission reviews the nominees and confirms the award.

Warning: Most universities have deadlines in December or January for the scholarship application. Do not wait until the last minute!

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4 Tips to Make Your Scholarship Application Stand Out and Improve Your Chances of Winning

Competition for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is fierce. Here is how to give your application the “Nigerian Hustle” edge:

• Focus on “Development Impact”: The UK government isn’t paying for your degree just for you to get a high-paying job in London. They want to know how you will help Nigeria. Will you solve the electricity crisis? Will you improve maternal health in rural areas? Be specific.
• Tell a Story: Don’t be robotic. Connect your personal struggle or background to your chosen field. Did growing up in Lagos traffic make you passionate about Urban Planning? Say it.
• Volunteer Experience: Grades are good, but what have you done for your community? Mention your NYSC experience, volunteer groups, or leadership roles.
• Proofread: Grammatical errors are a red flag. Use tools like Grammarly, but also get a human (maybe a lecturer or a past scholar) to read your essays.

Important Disclaimer

We at Campus Hustle NG are educational enthusiasts, not the scholarship board. Scholarship details, deadlines, and participating universities change annually.

Always verify information directly from the official Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website or the specific university’s international office before applying.

Never pay anyone to process this scholarship for you, it is free to apply!

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FAQs About Commonwealth Shared Scholarship

Can I stay in the UK after my studies?

Strictly speaking, no.

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is a development award, and you are required to sign an undertaking to return to your home country (Nigeria) upon completion of your award.

However, you can apply for a PhD or other work visas later, but the immediate expectation is a return home.

Is IELTS compulsory for Commonwealth Shared Scholarship?

It depends on the university. The Commonwealth Commission does not demand IELTS, but the university you are applying to might require it for admission.

Many UK universities waive IELTS for Nigerians if you have a C6 in WAEC English, so check with the school first.

Can I apply to more than one university?

Yes! You can apply to multiple universities and courses listed under the scheme to increase your chances. However, you must submit a separate application via the cscuk apply system for each course.

Is there an age limit?

There is no strict age limit stated by the CSC, but these scholarships are generally aimed at early-to-mid-career professionals.

In Summary

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is more than just a ticket to the UK; it’s a life-changing opportunity to gain world-class knowledge and bring it back to build our nation.

Yes, the process is rigorous. Yes, writing the essays takes time. But imagine landing at Heathrow Airport, knowing your tuition, rent, and feeding are fully covered.

Don’t let “SAPA” or self-doubt hold you back. The participating universities are looking for potential, and that potential is you.

Are you planning to apply for the next cycle? Which university is your top choice? Drop a comment below let’s discuss!