Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarship In UK For Developing Countries 2024

The Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity for outstanding students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue a PhD degree at a UK university. The scholarship provides full tuition coverage and a living stipend for one year of study at a UK university, enabling exceptional students to access high-quality research opportunities and contribute to their home countries’ development.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship: Be a citizen or refugee of an eligible Commonwealth country
• Residency: Be a permanent resident of an eligible Commonwealth country
• PhD Enrollment: Be registered for a PhD degree at a university in an eligible Commonwealth country
• Institutional Link: Demonstrate an institutional or departmental link between the home university and the proposed UK university
• Study Start Date: Be available to start academic study in the UK in September 2024
• Academic Standing: Hold a first degree of at least upper second-class honours standard or equivalent
• Financial Need: Demonstrate financial need for studying in the UK

Benefits

The Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarship provides a comprehensive package of benefits to successful applicants:

• Full Tuition Coverage: Full tuition coverage for one year of study at a UK university
• Living Stipend: A monthly living stipend to cover expenses such as accommodation, meals, and transportation
• Travel Allowance: A travel allowance to and from the UK
• Research Support: Opportunities to engage in research and gain valuable experience
• Networking Opportunities: Access to a network of fellow scholars, alumni, and industry professionals
• Mentorship Programs: Mentoring from experienced researchers and faculty members

Application Process

The application process for the Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarship is highly competitive and requires the submission of the following documents:

• Completed Application Form: A complete application form with all required information
• Academic Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• Research Proposal: A detailed research proposal outlining the proposed research project
• Letter of Motivation: A compelling letter of motivation outlining academic goals, research aspirations, and contributions to the home country
• Two Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from academic or research supervisors
• Copy of Identity Document or Passport: A copy of a valid identity document or passport
• Resume: A detailed resume highlighting relevant research experience, academic achievements, and publications

Application Deadline

The application deadline for the Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarship is typically in December of the year prior to the intended start date of study. For the 2024/2025 academic year, the application deadline is December 5, 2023.

Selection Process

Applications for the Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarship are reviewed by a selection committee, which considers the following factors:

• Academic Record: Strength of academic performance, including GPA, coursework, and research experience
• Research Proposal: Clarity, originality, and feasibility of the proposed research project
• Leadership Potential: Evidence of leadership skills, initiative, and a commitment to making a positive impact
• Personal Statement: Clarity and persuasiveness of the letter of motivation, highlighting personal goals, research aspirations, and contributions to the home country
• References: Insights and recommendations provided by academic or research supervisors
• Overall Fit: The applicant’s alignment with the scholarship’s objectives and their potential to contribute to the UK-Commonwealth research partnership

Start of Program

The successful applicants of the Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarship will commence their studies at their respective UK universities in September of the year following the application deadline.

For more information about the Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarship and application deadlines, please visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website.