QUEEN ELIZABETH COMMONWEALTH SCHOLARSHIPS (QECS) – Fully Funded

Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) provide an exceptional opportunity to study a two-year Masters degree at leading universities in low and middle-income Commonwealth countries. No other international programme gives students the opportunity to study in as many locations across the Commonwealth.

The scholarships are aimed at students who are committed to creating change – both in their home countries and those that host them. QECS scholars will be supported to develop their knowledge and skills within a new country and academic environment – learning how to apply this knowledge to create solutions to global challenges whilst experiencing and learning about a new culture.

Through cultural exchange and academic collaboration, Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholars help bring about positive change and find solutions to the shared challenges we face. Consisting of 54 countries, the Commonwealth promotes international cooperation and is underpinned by a set of values that advocate democracy, tolerance, respect, equality – and much more. As an active part of the Commonwealth network, scholars will help to shape its future.

International collaboration in higher education leads to breakthroughs in knowledge, the free exchange of ideas, and enduring bonds between institutions and nations. But it begins with connections between people.

For more than 100 years, the ACU has brought students, scholars, academic leaders, and university professionals together across borders to forge fruitful and mutually beneficial partnerships with far-reaching impact.

While the shared language and structures of the Commonwealth create an ease of working together, the ACU offers valuable opportunities to put this advantage to practical use.

Meanwhile, our proud history of running world-class global scholarship schemes gives us unique expertise and insight into the value and impact of international educational experiences

The scholarship covers:

• Fully-funded tuition fees
• Living allowance (stipend) for the duration of the award
• Return economy flights to the host country
• One-off arrival allowance
• Research Support Grant (on request only; subject to approval)

>>For Eligibility and how to apply, click here<<

FAQs

1. What is the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship (QECS)?

The QECS is a fully funded scholarship for students from Commonwealth countries to pursue a Master’s degree in another low or middle-income Commonwealth country. It is managed by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) and aims to support students who want to create positive social impact in their home countries after graduation.

2. What does the QECS fully funded scholarship cover?

The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including:

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly living allowance (stipend)
• Return economy airfare
• Arrival allowance
• Research support grant (in some cases)

This makes it a fully funded opportunity, meaning scholars do not pay for major study expenses.

3. Who is eligible to apply for QECS?

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be a citizen (or hold refugee status) in a Commonwealth country
• Apply to study in a country different from their home country
• Hold a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2:1 equivalent or better
• Meet the specific requirements of the chosen university and course
  There is no upper age limit for applicants.

4. How can I apply for QECS?

Applicants do not apply to a single central scholarship pool. Instead:

• Choose a participating university and an eligible Master’s programme
• Apply directly through the QECS application portal (via ACU)
• Submit required documents such as transcripts, references, CV, and a personal statement
• Applications are assessed based on academic ability, development impact, and study plan

Each application cycle has specific deadlines and selected universities.