Starting a higher education programme is a very important turning point in a student’s academic career. However, funding is not a piece of cake. You need to either consider an education loan or any other source of financial aid.
If you have enough time to prepare and get outstanding scores, the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) is a great option to consider. It provides a ray of hope for Malaysian students who wish to study in the UK. This scholarship is available for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees.
In our detailed guide, we’ll go into the specifics of Commonwealth scholarships. This includes qualifying requirements and application deadlines.
What is the Commonwealth Scholarship?
Under the well-known Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, students from 56 Commonwealth countries—including Malaysia—can apply for financial aid to pursue higher education in the UK.
This project serves as an engine for educational exchange and international collaboration among Commonwealth members. It aims to promote understanding between people, cultures, and academic excellence on a global scale.
6 types of Commonwealth Scholarships
Following are the types of Commonwealth Scholarships that are available.
1. Commonwealth Scholarships for Undergraduate Studies
The Commonwealth Scholarships Malaysia for undergraduate studies provide financial assistance to Malaysian students who are seeking to pursue their bachelor’s degrees in the UK.
The Commonwealth scholarships for undergraduates cover numerous academic disciplines. Among them are disciplines like social sciences, humanities, technology, and arts. The duration and coverage vary depending on the specific program and host institution.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships for Masters Studies
Designed for Malaysian graduates who wish to pursue postgraduate studies, the Commonwealth scholarships for masters cover tuition fees, living expenses, and off-campus accommodations like student accommodation in Glasgow city center.
You will be able to cover these everyday essentials under the Commonwealth scholarships program for master’s studies. This includes other essential costs associated with obtaining a master’s degree to study in the UK.
3. Commonwealth Ph.D. Scholarships
The Commonwealth Ph.D. scholarships are divided into two categories:
a. For least developed countries and fragile states
For this category, the scholarship is intended for applicants from the Commonwealth’s fragile states and least-developed nations administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC).
The goal of the scholarships is to support international collaboration and sustainable development by providing financial aid to deserving graduates from these countries who can carry out significant research and rise to positions of leadership or influence in their home countries.
b. For high-income countries
This category of the Commonwealth scholarship is for candidates from high-income Commonwealth nations for a full-time doctoral course in the UK. For this category, it applies to scholars who have overcome barriers to excel in their educational journey but cannot afford to study in the UK.
4. Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships
The Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships are offered to high-quality graduates from underdeveloped and middle-income countries who cannot afford to study in the UK.
The scholarship lets candidates conduct research at their desired university for 12 months (a single 12-month period or divided into two six-month periods).
5. Commonwealth Gender and Sexuality Scholarship
This scholarship is especially for those who seek equal opportunity in their career path. Women and other ignorant sexualities from underprivileged and least-developed countries can apply for this scholarship and make a fine career in their chosen path.
6. Commonwealth Medical Fellowship
Commonwealth medical fellowships are offered to medical professionals (like doctors, nurses, etc.) who are committed to making a difference after returning to their home country. It aims to help these professionals add more skills to their practice, which will, in turn, benefit the citizens of their country.
Commonwealth Scholarship eligibility criteria in Malaysia
To qualify for a Commonwealth Scholarship, Malaysian students must meet certain eligibility criteria and requirements.
Eligibility criteria:
- Must be a citizen of a commonwealth member country
- For Doctoral, Master, and Professional study, students must be younger than age 40
- High academic merit
- English language proficiency
- Commitment that the candidate will return to Malaysia upon completion of their studies.
- Candidate is required to demonstrate proof of financial need.
- Provide letters of recommendation and a compelling personal statement/SOPs outlining their academic and career goals.
How to apply for the Commonwealth Scholarship for Malaysian students
Applications for Commonwealth Scholarships must be submitted through the National Nominating Agency. Malaysian students interested in Commonwealth Scholarships should carefully review the application guidelines provided by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) or relevant scholarship agencies in Malaysia.
Applicants for Commonwealth scholarships can begin the application process up to a year in advance of the scholarship’s intake or grant. If you are planning to apply for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarship, applications are now being accepted for 2024–2025.
The application process typically involves submitting the following documents:
- An online application form
- A copy of the passport
- Offer letter from the UK institute
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement/SOP
When is the Commonwealth Scholarship deadline?
It’s essential to adhere to the specified deadlines and ensure that all required documents are submitted accurately and on time.
The deadline for Commonwealth Scholarship applications may vary depending on the specific scholarship program and the host institution. The general deadline provided by the British Council for Malaysian students is in December. However, the Malaysian appointed national nominating agency may have a different deadline. Candidates must meet both deadlines in order to qualify.
Malaysian students are encouraged to check the official website of the CSC or contact the relevant scholarship agencies in Malaysia for information on application deadlines and submission procedures.
By understanding the various scholarship programs, eligibility criteria, and application processes outlined in this guide, Malaysian students can embark on their educational journey with confidence and determination. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the world and expand your horizons through Commonwealth Scholarships!
