The King’s College Commonwealth Shared Scholarship offers a unique, fully funded opportunity for students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue selected master’s programs at King’s College London (KCL).
This scholarship aims to promote global development by enabling students to acquire advanced education, skills, and expertise to contribute to their home countries.
This guide provides detailed information about the scholarship benefits, eligibility requirements, application process, and other essential details to help prospective applicants successfully apply.
What is the King’s College Commonwealth Shared Scholarship?
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is part of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP). It is designed for academically outstanding students from eligible Commonwealth countries who cannot afford to study in the United Kingdom without financial assistance.
At King’s College London, this scholarship is available for a limited number of master’s programs, which are geared toward addressing global development needs.
Benefits of the King’s College Commonwealth Shared Scholarship
This fully funded scholarship covers all major expenses associated with studying in the UK, including:
- Full Tuition Fees: Complete coverage of tuition for eligible master’s programs.
- Monthly Stipend: £1,347 to £1,652 per month, depending on the scholar’s location.
- Travel Costs: Return airfare from the scholar’s home country to the UK.
- Other Allowances: Assistance for study-related and clothing expenses.
These benefits are designed to eliminate financial barriers and allow scholars to focus entirely on their studies and personal development.
Eligible Master’s Programs at King’s College London
Applicants can apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship if they wish to enroll in one of the following full-time, on-campus master’s programs at King’s College London:
- MSc Mental Health Studies
- MSc Global Mental Health
- MSc Palliative Care
- MRes Clinical Research
These programs are carefully chosen to align with the scholarship’s goal of addressing key global development challenges.
Eligibility Requirements for the Scholarship
To apply for the King’s College Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen or hold refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be a permanent resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be available to begin academic studies in the UK in September 2025.
- Hold a first degree equivalent to at least a UK upper second-class (2:1) honors degree. A lower second-class degree (2:2) with relevant postgraduate qualifications may also be accepted.
- Have not worked or studied for more than one academic year in a high-income country.
- Be unable to afford to study in the UK without the scholarship.
- Meet the specific entry requirements of their chosen master’s program.
- Demonstrate English language proficiency to pursue the program.
Additionally, applicants must provide all required documentation within the deadlines set by King’s College London and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC).
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on the following criteria:
- Academic Merit: Outstanding academic achievements and qualifications.
- Plan of Study: A clear and compelling plan of study relevant to global development.
- Development Impact: Demonstrated potential to contribute to the development of the applicant’s home country after completing the program.
Application Process (Step by Step)
Step 1: Submit an Application to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC)
- Visit the CSC Online Application Portal.
- Complete and submit your application for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship by 4:00 PM (UK Time) on December 12, 2024.
- Ensure all required documents are uploaded as part of the application.
Step 2: Apply to King’s College London
- Visit the King’s College London Admissions Portal.
- Complete and submit your application for one of the eligible master’s programs by January 8, 2025.
- In the “Funding” section of the application, select option 5 and include the code “CSSS2025.”
Important Note: Both applications must be completed before their respective deadlines. Failure to meet either deadline will result in disqualification.
Required Documents for the Application
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents to complete their application:
- Completed Online Application Forms: For both CSC and King’s College London.
- Degree Certificates and Transcripts: Scanned copies of academic qualifications.
- Proof of Citizenship or Refugee Status: Documentation confirming eligibility.
- References: At least two academic or professional references.
- Personal Statement: Explaining how the scholarship will help you achieve your career and development goals.
- Plan of Study: A detailed proposal outlining your study objectives and their relevance to development challenges in your home country.
- English Proficiency Certificate: If applicable, proof of English language proficiency, such as an IELTS score.
Why Apply for the King’s College Commonwealth Shared Scholarship?
This scholarship offers more than financial support—it’s an opportunity to:
- Access high-quality education at one of the world’s leading universities.
- Gain specialized skills and knowledge to tackle global development issues.
- Build an international network of like-minded professionals.
- Contribute meaningfully to your home country’s development upon your return.
Application Deadlines
CSC Application Deadline: December 12, 2024 (4:00 PM UK Time)
King’s College London Application Deadline: January 8, 2025
Ensure you apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues or incomplete submissions.
FAQs
- Is this scholarship fully funded? Yes, the King’s College Commonwealth Shared Scholarship covers tuition, living costs, travel, and other expenses.
- Can I apply if I’ve previously studied in a high-income country? You are eligible only if you have not studied or worked in a high-income country for more than one academic year.
- Are part-time or online programs eligible? No, this scholarship is available only for full-time, on-campus master’s programs.
- What if I miss one of the deadlines? Failure to meet any of the application deadlines will disqualify you from the scholarship.
- Do I need to return to my home country after completing the program? Yes, scholars are expected to return home to contribute to their country’s development.