UK Master’s Scholarships 2026 for SIDS Students – Chevening & Commonwealth Opportunities
The UK Government has announced a new initiative to support students from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) with fully funded Master’s scholarships through the Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) programmes.
Starting in 2026, talented individuals from SIDS will have the opportunity to pursue a one-year Master’s degree at any UK university, fully funded by either the Chevening SIDS Scholarship or the Commonwealth SIDS Scholarship. These prestigious programmes are designed to build the capacity and leadership potential of young professionals from SIDS by investing in their higher education.
This opportunity follows the UK Government’s commitment at the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa to expand educational access and professional development for SIDS nations.
Scholarship Highlights
-
Up to 40 scholarships will be available collectively through Chevening and CSC.
-
Open to exceptional candidates from SIDS countries.
-
Study in areas aligned with national development needs.
-
Benefit from an enhanced UK experience, including:
-
Exclusive networking events with global leaders and scholars.
-
Participation in welcome events at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
-
Access to the Chevening Alumni Programme Fund and global alumni network.
-
Engagement in UK–SIDS workshops and capacity-building events.
-
Fields of Study
Scholars will pursue fields that align with their country’s developmental priorities, including:
-
Human rights, democracy, and rule of law
-
Climate change and sustainability
-
Economic recovery and growth
-
Peacebuilding and social support systems
Eligibility
Chevening SIDS Scholarship Countries:
Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Fiji, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Kiribati, Maldives, Mauritius, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
Commonwealth Scholarship SIDS Countries:
Belize, Dominica, Fiji, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Kiribati, Maldives, Mauritius, Montserrat, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
Application Process
Chevening SIDS Scholarship
-
Apply through the standard Chevening online portal.
-
During application, tick the box to indicate interest in the SIDS Scholarship.
-
Top-ranked applicants from each eligible country will be considered.
Commonwealth SIDS Scholarship
-
20 guaranteed scholarships available.
-
Applicants must apply through their national nominating agency.
-
In Solomon Islands, this is the National Scholarship Division of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD).
-
Application procedures are the same as for general CSC Master’s scholarships.
Application Timeline
| Programme | Applications Open | Applications Close |
|---|---|---|
| Chevening SIDS Scholarship | August 2025 | October 2025 |
| Commonwealth SIDS Scholarship | September 2025 | October 2025 |
FAQs
Who is eligible to apply for these scholarships?
Citizens of Small Island Developing States listed under each scholarship programme are eligible to apply. Applicants must meet the individual programme requirements as well.
Can I apply for both Chevening and Commonwealth SIDS Scholarships?
Yes, applicants may apply for both, but each has a separate process. Selection criteria and deadlines may vary.
Does applying for the Chevening SIDS Scholarship affect my chances of regular Chevening selection?
No. If you apply for the SIDS Scholarship, you will still be considered for the standard Chevening award.
What additional benefits does the Chevening SIDS Scholarship offer?
In addition to full funding, it includes exclusive networking events, alumni engagement opportunities, and a specialised UK programme experience designed to enhance leadership and collaboration.
What are the nomination requirements for Commonwealth SIDS Scholarships?
Applicants must be nominated by a national nominating agency. Each country has its own process and deadlines for nominations.
What are the eligible fields of study?
Applicants must choose subjects aligned with their country’s development needs such as climate action, human rights, sustainable development, governance, and economic growth.
Final Thoughts
These scholarships offer life-changing opportunities for future leaders from SIDS nations. Whether through Chevening or the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, selected scholars will gain world-class education, professional networks, and the tools to drive change in their home countries.
Ready to apply?
Keep an eye on the official Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarship websites as application portals open from August 2025.
