Free Study in the UK via Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2025–26
- June 2, 2025
- Posted by: Visas
- Category: UK Visa

For a student dreaming of studying abroad but lacking the means to pay expensive tuition, the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) might provide the perfect chance. Students from Commonwealth nations can pursue a two-year master’s degree at no cost in another Commonwealth country, thanks to this fully funded scholarship.
Below, we provide a basic description of what QECS is, who is eligible to apply, what it offers, and the application process.
What is the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship?
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships are given to qualified students who come from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries who wish to make a positive impact in their native country through education.
It’s an opportunity for a student to learn in another Commonwealth nation, becoming a part of a growing global network of changemakers. This program focuses on education, cultural exchange, and ecological sustainable development.
The scholarship is funded by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).
Why Should You Submit for QECS?
It’s an opportunity to transform rather than merely a scholarship. Here is the explanation:
- You get knowledge and skills to improve your hometown.
- You enter the Commonwealth network, which includes leaders and experts from all over.
Who may submit?
You have to apply for QECS by:
- Become either a citizen of a Commonwealth country or a refugee.
- Possess a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent certification.
- Get ready to start a two-year full-time master’s degree.
- Not currently residing in or studying in the nation you wish to apply to.
Depending on the course, each institution may have different entry standards, including English proficiency requirements (such as IELTS or TOEFL).
Benefits of QECS include:
The scholarship covers everything that you are required to do during the research. You get:
- Total payments for tuition to the institution
- Daily needs payment
- Economic return flight from your home country to the host country
- Arriving allowance for settling in
- Research support grant if approved.
The scholarship manages your education and living expenses so that you can focus on growing and learning.
With QECS, where should one study?
Every year, QECS offers scholarships at select institutions throughout many Commonwealth countries.
Among recent host nations include:
- South Africa
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Mauritius
- Pakistan
- Tanzania
- Sri Lanka
- Bangladesh
- Uganda
Courses given: Which?
QECS supports master’s degree programs across a range of fields. Well-known subject categories include:
- Public health
- Instruction
- Science and technology
- Climatic variations and surroundings
- Social sciences
- Engineering
- Development studies
Asking QECS requires the following papers:
- Passport or copy of your national identity card
- Transcripts from academics, as well as a bachelor’s degree certificate
- Two reference letters
- Personal statement
Ensure that every document either has an official English translation or is in English.
How should one ask for QECS?
Although essential, requesting QECS requires extreme attention to the instructions.
Process of step-by-step application:
- Formal QECS website: https://www.acu.ac.uk
- Look at the course choices and the list of host universities for the present cycle.
- Select your degree and institution; you can only apply once per institution.
- Create a QECS portal online application account.
- Fill out the application form completely.
- Upload all the documents needed.
- Submit your form by the due date.
Expected Application Timeline for 2025–26
Though exact dates can fluctuate, here is a rough guesstimate based on past cycles:
- Applications begin in November or December 2024
- Deadline: Approximately January or February 2025
- Interview and selection: March–May 2025
- Announced final results: June or July 2025
- Courses start in August or September 2025, depending on the nation.
Apply early. Tip: Avoid waiting until the final date.
How Are Pupils Selected?
The choosing process is competitive. Selectors look for these features:
- Good academic achievement
- A statement that is clearly and well-written
- Leadership traits: Returning and helping your native nation
- Interest in working on developmental targets, including education, health, or climate change.
Your references and personal motivation are essential; therefore, submit a sincere and mindful application.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Am I eligible to apply if I have not completed the degree yet?
Answer: No. When you apply, you have to have finished your degree. You can apply after graduation and get your certificate if you are in your last year.
Q2: Is there any age limit?
Answer: There are no such official age restrictions. The program is primarily designed for early-career and less experienced professionals who want to develop their skills and apply them in their countries for better development.
Q3: May I apply for more than one college?
Answer: Of course, you can apply to more than one college, but ensure that you submit only one QECS application per host university.
Q4: Do I need to take the TOEFL or the IELTS?
Answer: Some universities don’t take English proficiency tests, whereas some do. Before applying, go over the language requirements of your preferred institution.
Q5: Is QECS offered annually?
Answer: Yes. Typically, in November or December, QECS begins accepting applications once a year.
Q6: If I have already studied abroad, may I apply?
Answer: Yes, but you must not be living or studying in the host country you’re applying to. The bursary hopes to promote world trade.
What makes QECS a one-of-a-kind possibility
One way QECS differs from other scholarships is:
- It centres on cross-cultural learning and communication.
- It helps you create a global network of changemakers.
- It enables students who wish to apply their skills to benefit their native nations.
You will come home with knowledge, experience, and confidence to make a difference if you travel overseas with QECS.
Success Advice for Applicants
Since many students apply for QECS, distinguish yourself with your story. Discuss about:
- What drives you to take that course
- Your degree will benefit your country or community as follows
- After graduation, what do you intend to do
Answer honestly, plainly, and clearly. That is what makes a real change.
Final Thoughts
QECS gives you a forum to learn, lead, and give back, whether you have an interest in education, public health, or climate solutions.
It could be your opportunity if you are from a Commonwealth nation and want to make a significant impact on the planet.
Start getting ready now; who knows? You may be the next QECS scholar, helping to create a better future.