The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2026 offer outstanding graduates from Commonwealth countries a chance to pursue a two-year master’s degree in a low or middle-income Commonwealth nation.
These scholarships are designed for students who are passionate about driving change in their communities and eager to gain international academic and cultural exposure.
Successful scholars get the opportunity to immerse themselves in a new country, collaborate with global peers, and contribute to impactful solutions that influence local and international development.
Quick Summary of the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships 2026
| Details | Information |
| Application Opens | 24 November 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 14 January 2026, 15:00 UTC |
| Eligible Level | Master’s Degree (2-year program) |
| Eligible Countries | Low & Middle-Income Commonwealth Nations |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Host Universities | ACU Member Universities |
| Min. Academic Requirement | Second Class Upper (2:1) |
| Application Cycles | Cycle 1: Nov/Dec • Cycle 2: Mar/Apr |
| Key Benefits | Tuition, stipend, flights, arrival allowance, research grant |
About the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
The QECS are designed to promote cross-cultural learning, academic collaboration, and community development across the Commonwealth.
Scholars gain access to high-quality master’s programs and participate in building a global network that strengthens cooperation and innovation.
Each year, two application cycles are available, and applicants are welcome to apply again in future cycles if they wish to study in a different host country.
The scholarship focuses on candidates who show leadership potential and are dedicated to making a positive impact at home or abroad.
What the Scholarship Covers
The QECS is fully funded and includes:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance (stipend)
- Return economy flights to the host country
- One-time arrival allowance
- Research Support Grant (issued upon request and subject to approval)
These benefits ensure scholars can focus entirely on their academic and community-impact goals without financial burdens.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country.
- Have completed an undergraduate degree with at least a 2:1 (upper second-class).
- Choose from the approved courses listed under participating universities.
- Be committed to community impact and intercultural collaboration.
How to Apply for the QECS
Follow these steps carefully to complete your application:
Step 1: Review Available Countries & Universities
Check the official list of participating universities and available master’s courses for your preferred application cycle. Only listed courses are eligible for funding.
Step 2: Research Your Selected Course
Visit the official website of your chosen university to understand course details, entry requirements, and additional admission guidelines.
Step 3: Submit Your QECS Application
Click the “Apply Now” button on the QECS portal and complete the scholarship application.
If you don’t have a myACU account, create one to access the application form.
Step 4: Apply to the University Separately
After completing your QECS application, submit a separate admission application to your selected university for your chosen master’s program.
Important Tips for Applicants
- Read the official Application Guidance and FAQs before starting your application to avoid mistakes and disqualification.
- Prepare all academic transcripts, reference letters, and personal statements early.
- Consider applying in more than one cycle if you are open to studying in different Commonwealth countries.
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