Apply for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026 for part-time online Master’s study, including the MPH (Online) at Imperial College London. Deadline: 31 March 2026.
Applications are now open for the Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships 2026/27, offering fully funded opportunities for students from eligible low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue part-time Master’s degrees by distance learning.
The scholarships are funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC).
One of the participating institutions is Imperial College London, specifically through its Imperial College London School of Public Health, which is offering scholarships for the Master of Public Health (Online) programme.
Scholarship Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Commonwealth Distance Learning Master’s Scholarship |
| Study Mode | Part-time, Distance Learning |
| Host Institution | Imperial College London (selected courses) |
| Programme | Master of Public Health (Online) |
| Funding | Full tuition fees (overseas rate) |
| Application Deadline | 16:00 BST, Tuesday 31 March 2026 |
| Study Start | September/October 2026 |
The School of Public Health has been awarded five scholarships for 2026 entry.
What the Scholarship Covers
Each award covers:
- Full tuition fees at the overseas rate
- Access to Imperial’s academic resources
- Fully online delivery (no relocation required)
Please note: The scholarship covers tuition only. Applicants should review the CSC website for additional funding provisions.
Who Can Apply Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships ?
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of or have refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country, or be a British Protected Person
- Be permanently resident in a developing Commonwealth country
- Hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) standard by September 2026
- Be unable to afford the programme without financial assistance
- Submit all required supporting documents
In some cases, a lower qualification with significant relevant experience may be considered.
For full eligibility criteria, applicants must review the official CSC guidance.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Academic merit
- Quality of study plan
- Potential impact on the development of the candidate’s home country
The CSC aims to identify individuals with leadership potential who can contribute to sustainable development in their countries.
Important Application Requirement
To be considered:
- You must apply through the CSC Central online system
- You must also submit a separate application for the Master of Public Health (Online) programme via Imperial College London’s website
Applications will not be considered without both submissions.
Key Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 17 February 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 31 March 2026 (16:00 BST) |
| Study Commences | September/October 2026 |
Late applications will not be accepted.
Why Study Public Health Online at Imperial?
Imperial College London is globally recognised for excellence in health sciences and research.
The online MPH programme offers:
- Flexible study while remaining in your home country
- Access to leading public health researchers
- International peer network
- Strong focus on global health and policy impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers full tuition fees at the overseas rate for eligible courses.
Do I need to relocate to the UK?
No. The programme is delivered entirely online.
Can I apply without first applying to Imperial?
No. You must submit an application to both CSC and Imperial.
What level of degree is required?
At least an upper second-class (2:1) degree, or equivalent.
Who funds this scholarship?
It is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
Conclusion
The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship 2026 provides an outstanding opportunity for professionals in developing Commonwealth countries to gain a prestigious UK Master’s qualification without leaving their home country.
With full tuition covered and study delivered online, this programme supports future public health leaders committed to sustainable development.
Applications close 31 March 2026 at 16:00 BST.
Keywords
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