The University of Sussex is inviting applications for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (2027) for full-time doctoral study in the UK.
This scholarship supports candidates from eligible low-income Commonwealth countries who cannot afford to study in the UK without financial assistance. In addition, applicants must apply to the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission, apply through a nominating agency, and secure a supporting statement from a Sussex supervisor.
Application Deadline
- 20 October 2026, 16:00 GMT
Tell Me About The Scholarship
The Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (2027), hosted by the University of Sussex and funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID), support candidates from low‑income Commonwealth countries who cannot afford to study in the UK without financial assistance. The scholarships enable talented individuals to pursue full‑time doctoral research in the UK starting September/October 2027.
Which Fields are Eligible
Scholarships are offered under six themes:
- Science & Technology for Development
- Strengthening Health Systems
- Promoting Global Prosperity
- Peace, Security & Governance
- Resilience & Crisis Response
- Access, Inclusion & Opportunity
Type
- Postgraduate Research | PhD | Fully Funded | UK
Who Can Apply
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen or refugee in an eligible country and a permanent resident there.
- Be available to start studies in the UK by September/October 2027.
- Hold by October 2027 a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) or a second class degree plus a relevant Master’s.
- Not be registered for a PhD/MPhil leading to PhD at a UK university before September/October 2027.
- Be unable to afford study in the UK without this scholarship.
How Are Scholars Selected
- Applications reviewed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC).
- Candidates must apply via both the CSC online system and a nominating agency in their home country.
- Selection criteria: academic merit, quality of study plan, and potential development impact.
Which Countries are Eligible
Eligible countries include:
- Bangladesh, Cameroon, Gambia, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Tanzania, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia.
Where Will the Scholarship Be Taken
- University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, United Kingdom.
How Many Scholars
- Not specified; competitive selection.
What is the Benefit of the Scholarship
- Full overseas PhD tuition fees.
- Stipend for living expenses.
- Return travel to the UK.
- Research Training Support Grant.
- Fieldwork costs.
How Long Will the Scholarship Last
- Full‑time doctoral study (PhD, typically 3–4 years).
Required Documents
- CV.
- Degree transcripts and certificates (with certified translations if not in English).
- Statement of interest (project title + supervisor name).
- Names of two academic referees.
- Valid IELTS certificate.
- Supporting statement from proposed Sussex supervisor.
- Development Impact Statement (CSC application).
How to Apply
- Identify a Sussex supervisor and obtain a supporting statement.
- Apply for a PhD place at Sussex via the online system: Sussex PhD Application.
- Apply to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission via their online portal by 20 October 2026, 16:00 GMT.
- Apply through a nominating agency in your home country (check deadlines separately).
👉 Visit the official scholarship page for details
