The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) offer a life-changing opportunity for citizens of Commonwealth countries to pursue a two-year Master’s degree in a low or middle-income Commonwealth host country. These scholarships are fully funded, providing comprehensive support that includes full tuition fees, accommodation, living stipends, return economy flights, and a one-off arrival allowance. QECS is aimed at students who are committed to driving positive change in their communities and building a global network to address shared challenges. Interested candidates must hold an undergraduate degree, be a Commonwealth citizen, and secure admission to their chosen course at a host university before the application deadline of January 14, 2026.
Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Various Commonwealth Countries (Low/Middle Income) |
| Study Abroad | Study in Asia | Study in Africa | Global Commonwealth |
| Category | Postgraduate Scholarships (Master’s Degree) |
| Eligible Countries | Commonwealth Countries (Citizens of Commonwealth Nations) |
| Reward | Full Scholarship | Tuition | Stipend | Flights | Accommodation |
| Key Criteria | Commonwealth Citizen, Undergraduate Degree, Commitment to community change, Admission to host university |
| Application Deadline | January 14, 2026 |
2026 Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship Details
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) are a prestigious component of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU). The core purpose of the program is to promote cultural exchange and academic collaboration by enabling bright, community-committed students to pursue advanced studies in diverse Commonwealth settings. By focusing on low and middle-income host countries, QECS facilitates knowledge transfer and capacity building where it is often most needed.
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Recipients are selected based on their potential to contribute to positive change and their commitment to finding solutions to shared global challenges. The two-year award period ensures ample time for academic rigor, cultural immersion, and the building of a lasting, influential global network among fellow scholars, ultimately positioning them as active agents in shaping the future of the Commonwealth.
Benefits and Specific Scholarship Award Tiers
The QECS is a fully funded scholarship, offering comprehensive financial and logistical support across three essential tiers.
Tier 1: Full Financial Coverage (Up to Full Tuition + Flights)
This tier ensures the academic and logistical costs of studying abroad are entirely covered for the two-year period.
- Value: Full coverage of tuition fees for the entire two-year Master’s degree program.
- Criteria: Awarded to all successful applicants for the QECS program, contingent upon maintaining academic standing during the scholarship period.
Tier 2: Living and Relocation Support
This category covers the necessary expenses for relocation and day-to-day living in the host country, promoting a smooth transition and focus on studies.
- A Living Allowance (stipend) provided for the full duration of the two-year award.
- Return economy flights from the scholar’s home country to the host country.
- A One-off arrival allowance to assist with initial settlement expenses in the host country.
- Accommodation assistance (details provided by the host institution).
Tier 3: Research and Academic Development Support
These awards are conditional, designed to facilitate essential scholarly work and thesis completion.
- A Research Support Grant, available upon request and subject to specific approval, to cover costs related to thesis research, fieldwork, or data collection.
- Access to the global Commonwealth network of alumni, academics, and professionals.
- A life-changing opportunity to experience a new country and culture, broadening horizons and enhancing global perspective.
Eligibility Requirements for Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026
Applicants must meet the following mandatory criteria, noting that specific host universities may have additional admission requirements.
- Academic/Leadership: Must hold an undergraduate degree at the time of admission to the Master’s program. There is No age limit or restriction for candidates.
- Study Status: Must be applying for a two-year Master’s degree program in an eligible course at one of the host universities.
- Visa Status: The candidate must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country.
- Program Admission: Each university may have specific eligibility requirements for admissions; applicants must secure admission to their chosen course and university.
How to Apply for Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process is centralized through the ACU but requires parallel action with the chosen host university.
- Identify Host & Course: Review the list of eligible countries and universities hosting scholarships in this cycle, and select your preferred course.
- Apply for University Admission: Visit the relevant university website and submit a separate application for admission to your chosen Master’s course, adhering to the university’s specific entry requirements.
- Complete QECS Application: Complete and submit a QECS application for your chosen university/course via the official online portal. You will need to click ‘Apply now’ and create a myACU account if you do not already have one.
- Submit Documents: Upload all required supporting documents, including references, to the QECS application portal. The application form consists of sections for eligibility, personal details, academic/employment record, course details, statements, and document uploads.
Application Deadline: January 14, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the study level and duration covered by the QECS?
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship covers a two-year Master’s degree program.
Which countries are eligible to host a QECS scholar?
The scholarships are hosted by universities in low or middle-income Commonwealth countries across Asia, Africa, and other regions.
Must an applicant be a citizen of a specific country to be eligible?
Yes, the candidate must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country to be eligible to apply for the QECS.
Is the QECS considered a fully funded scholarship?
Yes, the QECS is a fully funded scholarship, covering tuition fees, living stipend, return flights, and a one-off arrival allowance.
Is accommodation provided as part of the scholarship benefits?
Yes, the scholarship covers accommodation and provides a living allowance (stipend) for the duration of the award.
Is there an age limit or restriction for applicants?
No, there is no age limit or restriction explicitly mentioned for candidates applying for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships.
What is the process for receiving a Research Support Grant?
The Research Support Grant is available on request only and is subject to separate approval, typically to cover costs related to fieldwork or thesis research.
Are applicants required to secure university admission before applying for the scholarship?
Yes, applicants are strongly advised to submit an application to their chosen university for admission to their course alongside or before the QECS scholarship application.
What is the official deadline for the QECS application?
The official application deadline for the 2026 Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship is January 14, 2026.
What does the application form require regarding supporting documents?
The application form requires uploading supporting documents and references, as well as detailing eligibility, academic/employment history, and submitting personal statements.
