The Higher Education Ministry has announced the postgraduate scholarships for master’s and PhD degree programmes offered under the UK Commonwealth Scholarship. Applications are invited from eligible Lankans. Candidates must apply using the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) online application system on the CSC website http://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/ about-us/scholarships The CSC is open for applications between September 10 and October 15 (at16:00 (GMT)). The CSC had requested 9 nominations for master’s degrees and 6 PhDs.

These scholarships are offered under 6 development themes. All candidates must apply under one of these themes. (More information: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/ csc-development-themes/). The fields of study are: science and technology for development, strengthening health system and capacity, promoting global prosperity, strengthening global peace, security and governance, and strengthening resilience and response to crisis, access, inclusion and opportunity. Each scholarship has a ‘How to apply’ section which will have information and guidance on the application process and the link to the online application system.

The CSC has stipulated that they are unable to accept any application that is not submitted via the online application system or after the closing date.

Applicants could apply for a PhD scholarship via link

https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-phd-scholarships-for-least-developed-countries-and-vulnerable-states/

Apply for a master’s scholarship via the link

https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-masters-scholarships/

General eligibility requirements are:

• Applicants should be citizens of Sri Lanka
• Should be in good health
• Ready to live in the UK during the period of study

Master’s applicants should possess a 4-year (minimum duration) bachelor’s degree with a first or second class upper division in the relevant field of study from a UGC recognised university. PhD applicants should possess a 4-year (minimum duration) bachelor’s degree with a first or second class upper division in the relevant field of study from a UGC recognised university, and should possess a master’s degree in the relevant field of study from a recognised university.

The applicant should not be registered for a PhD, or an MPhil leading to a PhD at a UK University or Sri Lanka before September/October 2025, and should provide a supporting statement from a proposed supervisor in the UK from at least one of the institutions named in the application form.- KW