The Institute of Commonwealth Studies is pleased to be partnering with Commonwealth Scholarships Commission to offer 5 full scholarships for the September 2026 intake to our MA in Human Rights by distance learning.
Application Deadline:
- MA application deadline (Institute of Commonwealth Studies): 16 March 2026
- Scholarship application deadline (Commonwealth Scholarships Commission): 31 March 2026
Tell Me About The Award:
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships fund five fully supported places for the MA in Human Rights (Distance Learning) at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies (ICwS), University of London. Funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the scholarships enable talented applicants from eligible Commonwealth countries to pursue a UK-accredited Master’s degree without relocating.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
- MA in Human Rights (Distance Learning)
Focus areas include: - Practical human rights application
- Legal and policy frameworks
- Advocacy and implementation skills
- Field-based analysis
Type:
- Postgraduate Scholarship | Master’s | Fully Funded.
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be citizens and residents of eligible low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries.
- Have a demonstrated commitment to promoting human rights, especially for marginalized groups.
- Be unable to study in the UK due to financial or other constraints.
- Have received an offer of admission to the MA in Human Rights at ICwS.
- Preferably have experience in civil society, public service, advocacy, legal practice, research, or grassroots activism.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Based on academic merit and professional experience.
- Track record of promoting human rights.
- Commitment to sustainable development and rights-based engagement.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries (full list available on the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission website).
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Institute of Commonwealth Studies (ICwS), University of London – Distance Learning.
How Many Awards?
- Five scholarships available for the September 2026 intake.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Full tuition fees for the MA programme.
- Study-related academic support.
- Access to online learning platforms and resources.
- UK-accredited qualification while studying from home country.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Duration of the MA in Human Rights programme (typically 2 years, part-time distance learning).
How to Apply:
- Apply for Admission: Submit the application for the MA in Human Rights (Distance Learning) directly to ICwS by 16 March 2026.
- Apply for the Scholarship: Once offered admission, apply via the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission online portal by 31 March 2026.
- Ensure all required documents are submitted before the deadline.
