The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships 2026 offer fully funded two-year Master’s degrees for students from Commonwealth nations to study in low- and middle-income member countries. Covers full tuition, living stipend, flights, arrival allowance, and research support. Applications close 14 January 2026.
Overview: Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships 2026
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) are now open for the 2026 admissions cycle, offering fully funded opportunities for exceptional students from Commonwealth countries to pursue a two-year Master’s degree in another low- or middle-income Commonwealth nation.
The QECS programme supports students committed to creating positive impact in their home communities. Scholars benefit from academic excellence, cultural immersion, professional growth, and long-lasting global networks across the Commonwealth.
Applications for Cycle 1 close on 14 January 2026 at 15:00 UTC.
About the QECS Programme
The QECS is a long-standing initiative that enables graduates to study abroad, gain a world-class postgraduate qualification, and engage in cross-cultural collaboration. Scholars become part of an influential global community focused on addressing shared development challenges.
Each year, two application cycles open:
- Cycle 1: November/December
- Cycle 2: March/April
Candidates may apply in multiple cycles if aiming for different participating countries.
What the Scholarship Covers
QECS awards are fully funded and include:
- Full tuition fees
- Living allowance (monthly stipend) throughout the programme
- Return economy airfare to the host country
- One-off arrival allowance
- Research Support Grant (available on request and subject to approval)
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, enabling scholars to focus entirely on academic and professional development.
Participating Universities for 2026: Cycle 1 Example
Antigua & Barbuda
The University of the West Indies – Five Islands Campus
Available Programme:
- MSc in Corporate Finance
Course Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with GPA 2.5+
- Must have passed introductory macroeconomics and financial management
- Strong foundation in quantitative subjects
Mature Entry (limited places):
- 10+ years of experience in banking or finance
- Relevant technical certificates or diplomas
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the QECS 2026 cycle, candidates must:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth member country
- Hold a minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate degree
- Apply for a Master’s programme listed as eligible on the QECS portal
- Not be applying to study in their home country
- Meet university-specific academic and language requirements
Additional desirable qualities include:
- Demonstrated commitment to community development
- Leadership potential
- Relevant academic or professional experience
Benefits of the QECS Programme
- Fully funded Master’s degree in a new Commonwealth country
- Exposure to new academic systems, cultures, and professional environments
- Access to research funding and institutional resources
- Opportunity to contribute to development impact in host and home countries
- Membership in a global network of QECS alumni
- Pathway to advanced research, international careers, and further academic opportunities
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Check eligible countries and universities listed for this cycle.
- Confirm that your desired programme is included in the QECS 2026 eligible course list.
- Visit the relevant university’s website for programme details.
- Click Apply Now on the QECS portal and log into your myACU account (create one if new).
- Complete and submit the QECS scholarship application.
- Submit a separate application directly to your chosen university for course admission.
- Ensure all required documents are uploaded — transcripts, references, CV, and personal statement.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the official Application Guidance and FAQ documents before applying.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2026 |
| Level of Study | Master’s (2-year programmes) |
| Funding | Fully funded |
| Eligibility | Citizens of Commonwealth nations |
| Minimum Requirement | 2:1 undergraduate degree |
| Application Cycle | Cycle 1: Opens 24 Nov 2025 |
| Deadline | 14 January 2026, 15:00 UTC |
| Coverage | Tuition, stipend, flights, arrival allowance, research grant |
| Study Locations | Low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries |
| Host Example | UWI Five Islands – MSc Corporate Finance |
| Application Portal | myACU (via QECS website) |
Conclusion
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships 2026 offer one of the most valuable postgraduate opportunities for students across the Commonwealth. With full financial support, international mobility, and access to world-class academic environments, QECS enables scholars to develop advanced skills, contribute to global development, and become part of a powerful international network.
Applicants aiming to broaden their academic horizons and make meaningful impact in their communities are strongly encouraged to apply before the deadline.
