Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025 in UK

The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships (CDLS) offer a remarkable opportunity for students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue part-time, online Master’s degrees at UK universities. These scholarships are designed to enhance the development of recipient countries by providing access to high-quality education without the need to relocate. Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025 in UK. ​Open University+3CSCUK+3The University of Edinburgh+3

University:	UK Universities
Degree level:	Masters Degree
Scholarship coverage:	Fully Funded
Eligible nationality:	International
Award country:	United Kingdom
Last Date:	20 May 2025

Also see:

Asian Institute of Technology Scholarships 2025 In Thailand

Scholarship Summary

Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the CDLS enables scholars to undertake postgraduate studies through distance learning. The scholarships cover full tuition fees and are tenable for up to five years of part-time study. This initiative aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to address global challenges and contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.​The University of Edinburgh+2Open University+2CSCUK+2The University of Edinburgh

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Fields of Study For Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025 in UK

The CDLS encompasses a diverse range of Master’s programs aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These programs are categorized into clusters, each focusing on specific global challenges:​University of Edinburgh

• One Health, One Medicine Cluster: Programs include MSc Biodiversity Wildlife and Ecosystem Health, MSc Global Health and Infectious Diseases, and MSc One Health, among others.​University of Edinburgh+1National Merit Scholarships+1

• Global Health Cluster: Programs such as MSc Clinical Education, Masters in Family Medicine, and MSc Paediatric Emergency Medicine fall under this category.​

• Surgical Sciences Cluster: This includes ChM in General Surgery, MSc in Surgical Sciences, and ChM in Trauma & Orthopaedics.​University of Edinburgh

• Carbon Management Cluster: The MSc Carbon Management program is part of this cluster.​University of Edinburgh

These programs are offered by various UK universities, each bringing unique expertise and resources to the online learning experience. ​University of Edinburgh

Eligibility Criteria For Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025 in UK

To be eligible for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship, applicants must:

• Citizenship: Be a citizen of, or have been granted refugee status by, an eligible Commonwealth country, or be a British Protected Person.​Global Scholarships+2The University of Edinburgh+2Open University+2

• Residency: Be permanently and continually resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.​The University of Edinburgh+1Open University+1

• Academic Qualifications: Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) standard. Applicants with lower qualifications may be considered if they have sufficient relevant experience.​Global Scholarships+2The University of Edinburgh+2Open University+2

• Financial Need: Be unable to afford to study the program without this scholarship.​The University of Edinburgh+1Open University+1

• References: Provide at least one reference as part of the application.​Global Scholarships+1The University of Edinburgh+1

It is important to note that applicants must secure an unconditional offer from a participating UK university before starting their studies. Therefore, early application to the chosen university is advisable. ​The University of Edinburgh+1CSCUK+1

Financial Benefits Of Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025 in UK

The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship offers comprehensive financial support, including:​

• Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees for the duration of the program.​

• Study-Related Expenses: Reimbursement for costs related to study materials and resources.​

• Partnership Building Costs: Funding to facilitate collaboration and networking opportunities.​

• UK-Based Training or Events Costs: Coverage for expenses associated with attending relevant training sessions or events in the UK.​

These benefits are designed to alleviate financial barriers and ensure scholars can fully engage with their studies. ​

Required Documents For Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2025 in UK

Applicants are generally required to submit the following documents:

• Academic Transcripts: Official records of previous educational qualifications.​

• Degree Certificates: Proof of awarded degrees.​

• Reference Letters: At least one letter of recommendation.​The University of Edinburgh+1Global Scholarships+1

• Personal Statement: A statement outlining the applicant’s motivation, career goals, and how the scholarship aligns with their aspirations.​

• Proof of Citizenship: Documents verifying citizenship or refugee status.​Open University+2The University of Edinburgh+2Global Scholarships+2

• Financial Statement: Evidence demonstrating the inability to fund the studies without the scholarship.​The University of Edinburgh+1Open University+1

It is essential to review the specific requirements of the chosen university, as additional documents may be required. ​

Application Process

The application process for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship involves two main steps:

1. University Application: Apply for admission to the chosen Master’s program at a participating UK university. Ensure that all required documents are submitted as per the university’s guidelines.​

2. Scholarship Application: Once an offer of admission is received, complete the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s (CSC) online application form for the CDLS. Submit all necessary supporting documents, including references, by the specified deadline.​CSCUK+3The University of Edinburgh+3CSCUK+3LSHTM+1The University of Edinburgh+1

It is crucial to adhere to the application timelines of both the university and the scholarship to ensure eligibility. ​

Deadline

The application deadlines for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships are as follows:​Open University+6Global Scholarships+6LSHTM+6

• University Application Deadline: Applicants are advised to apply for their chosen program at least 12 working days before the scholarship application deadline to allow sufficient time for processing.​

• Scholarship Application Deadline: The scholarship application deadline is 20 May 2025.  Applicants should regularly check the official Commonwealth Scholarships Commission website for updates. ​Global Scholarships+9LSHTM+9CSCUK+9CSCUK+3CSCUK+3The University of Edinburgh+3

Conclusion

The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships provide a unique opportunity for individuals from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue advanced education without leaving their home countries. By offering financial support and access to quality UK education, these scholarships aim to foster global development and create a network of professionals equipped to tackle pressing international challenges.​The University of Edinburgh+3CSCUK+3Open University+3

Prospective applicants are encouraged to thoroughly research eligible programs, prepare necessary documentation, and stay informed about application

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