Be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country, or be a British Protected Person. Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country (The Gambia is an eligible country). Be available to start your academic studies in the UK by the start of the UK academic year (September/October 2027). Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) honours, or a second class degree and a relevant Master’s degree. Not have studied or worked for one (academic) year or more in a high income country. Provide all supporting documentation in the required format.

Commonwealth PhD Scholarships are for candidates from low and middle income Commonwealth countries to undertake full-time doctoral study at a UK university. These scholarships are offered under six development themes: Science and technology for development, Strengthening health systems and capacity, Promoting global prosperity, Strengthening global peace, security and governance, Strengthening resilience and response to crises, Access, inclusion and opportunity. Applications for the 2027/2028 academic year are expected to open in September 2026.

Fully funded. Includes approved airfare from your home country to the UK and return, approved tuition fees, a monthly stipend (maintenance allowance) at the UK rate (currently £1,390 per month, or £1,700 for those in London), warm clothing allowance, study travel grant, and family allowances (if applicable).