Commonwealth scholarship new policy on international students

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) has introduced new policies for international students applying for scholarships. Here are some key changes:

  1. Eligibility Criteria: The CSC has introduced a new eligibility criteria for international students. To be eligible, students must:
    • Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (except the United Kingdom).
    • Be applying for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree at a UK university.
    • Have a minimum academic qualification of a UK 2:1 honors degree or equivalent.
    • Meet the English language requirements of the UK university.
  2. New Scholarship Categories: The CSC has introduced three new scholarship categories:
    • Commonwealth Master's Scholarships: For students pursuing a one-year master's degree at a UK university.
    • Commonwealth PhD Scholarships: For students pursuing a three-year PhD degree at a UK university.
    • Commonwealth Split-Site Scholarships: For students pursuing a joint degree at a UK university and a partner institution in a Commonwealth country.
  3. Application Process: The application process has been simplified, and students can now apply online. The application deadline is usually in October for scholarships starting in the following academic year.
  4. Interviews: The CSC will conduct interviews with shortlisted candidates, usually via video conferencing. The interview will assess the candidate's academic and professional background, as well as their motivation for applying for the scholarship.
  5. Scholarship Awards: The CSC will award scholarships to the most outstanding candidates, and the awards will cover:
    • Tuition fees for the full duration of the degree program.
    • Living costs, including accommodation, food, and other expenses.
    • Return airfare to and from the UK.
    • Thesis grant for PhD students.
  6. Additional Requirements: Some scholarships may require additional documentation, such as:
    • A research proposal (for PhD students).
    • A language proficiency test (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL).
    • A police certificate (for some countries).
  7. Scholarship Tenure: The scholarship tenure is usually for the full duration of the degree program, but some scholarships may have a shorter tenure.
  8. Reimbursement: The CSC will reimburse students for certain expenses, such as:
    • Visa fees.
    • Travel insurance.
    • Medical insurance.

It's essential to note that the CSC has specific requirements and guidelines for each scholarship category, so students should carefully review the eligibility criteria and application process before applying.