Commonwealth Shared Scholarship

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship at the University of Sussex is a highly competitive initiative delivered in partnership with the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC). It is specifically designed for candidates from least developed and lower-middle-income Commonwealth countries, such as Bangladesh, who are unable to afford to study in the UK without financial support. Sussex is globally renowned for its research and teaching in International Development, consistently ranked number one in the world.

This scholarship seeks to empower Bangladeshi students who have a strong academic background and a vision for sustainable development. Unlike standard merit awards, the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship focuses on six developmental themes, including Science and Technology for Development and Strengthening Global Peace, Security, and Governance. The program aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge required to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) upon returning to Bangladesh. At Sussex, scholars join a diverse, activist-minded community, gaining access to world-class facilities and a network of global change-makers.

• Full Tuition Fees: Covers 100% of the international student tuition costs.
• Stipend: A monthly living allowance, approx. £1,347 per month to cover accommodation and food.
• Travel: Return economy-class airfare from Bangladesh to the UK.
• Thesis Grant: A financial contribution toward the cost of preparing a thesis or dissertation.
• Warm Clothing Allowance: A one-time payment to help students settle into the UK climate.

To be eligible, a candidate must:

• citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country.
• permanently resident in Bangladesh.
• available to start academic studies in the UK by September 2026.
• Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) honours standard, or a lower second class degree plus a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a 4-year Bachelor's with a high CGPA).
• Not have studied or worked for more than one academic year in a high-income country.
• Be unable to afford to study at a UK university without this scholarship.

• MA in Climate Change, Development and Policy
• MA in Food and Development
• MA in Poverty and Development
• MSc in Sustainable Development
• MSc in International Business and Development

The University of Sussex, located near Brighton, is a leading research-intensive institution.

• Global Ranking: Regularly ranked #1 in the world for Development Studies (QS World University Rankings).
• Research Excellence: Known for its interdisciplinary approach and "challenge-led" research that addresses global issues.
• Environment: Situated in a beautiful South Downs National Park setting, offering a unique blend of nature and modern campus life.
• Diversity: Sussex hosts a vibrant community of international students, fostering a multicultural environment for Bangladeshi scholars.

• Proof of Citizenship: Copy of a valid passport or national ID.
• Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of all higher education transcripts.
• University Offer Letter: Proof of admission to an eligible Master’s course at Sussex.
• Personal Statement: Detailing how your study relates to development in Bangladesh.
• References: Two academic references submitted directly to the CSC portal.