The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2026 provide a distinguished, fully funded chance for students from Commonwealth nations to pursue a two-year Master’s program in a low- or middle-income member country. Aimed at nurturing future leaders, the scholarship supports individuals committed to driving positive change in their communities while benefiting from high-quality education in a diverse, multicultural academic setting. Beyond financial assistance, it opens doors to fresh ideas, international collaboration, and innovative approaches to global challenges.
This transformative program highlights the importance of cultural exchange, leadership, and community development. Awardees of QECS 2026 join a dynamic network of changemakers who work together on research and practical solutions to pressing issues in their home countries and across the Commonwealth. Whether in fields such as education, healthcare, technology, or sustainable development, scholars contribute significantly to building a fairer and more inclusive future.
The QECS 2026–27 runs in two application cycles each year—generally in November/December and again in March/April. Candidates can choose from a range of participating universities and host countries, with the option to reapply for different destinations in later rounds. This initiative not only strengthens global understanding but also promotes academic excellence and professional growth on an international stage.
Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships 2026 Details:
- Host Countries: Antigua & Barbuda, Bangladesh, Barbados, Eswatini, Jamaica, Kenya, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Trinidad & Tobago,Uganda
- Host Universities: Different Universities
- Degree Level: Master’s Degree Program
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 14 January 2026
Fields of Study Offered Under the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2026:
Here are the common fields of study offered under the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2026-2027, depending on the participating universities and host countries. These fields are designed to address global challenges and development needs:
Antigua & Barbuda – The University of the West Indies (UWI), Five Islands Campus
Programme Offered
- MSc in Corporate Finance
Course Admission Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.5 or above, accepted by UWI.
- Must have passed Introduction to Macroeconomics and Financial Management I or equivalent.
- Strong foundation in quantitative subjects is essential.
- Mature applicants (up to 15% of cohort) with at least 10 years of professional experience in banking/finance, plus relevant certificates/diplomas, may be considered.
Bangladesh – BRAC University
Programmes Offered
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Master of Development Studies (MDS)
- MEd Educational Leadership and School Improvement
- MSc Biotechnology
Course Admission Requirements
Master of Public Health
- Bachelor’s (4-year) or Bachelor’s + Master’s/Postgrad Diploma in Health Sciences, Life Sciences, or Social Sciences.
- Minimum CGPA 2.5/4.0 at bachelor’s level.
- Minimum GPA 2.5 in SSC/HSC or O/A Levels.
- English, Mathematics proficiency and basic computer skills required.
- 2–3 years of public health experience preferred.
Master of Development Studies
- Bachelor’s degree with at least CGPA 2.5/4.0.
- Minimum GPA 2.5 in SSC & HSC OR O/A Levels (only one “E” allowed).
MEd Educational Leadership & School Improvement
- Minimum GPA 2.5 in SSC/HSC or O/A Levels.
- At least 15 years of education with second division/CGPA 2.5.
- IB-DP: Minimum score of 24.
- Foundation/GED not accepted.
MSc Biotechnology
- SSC/HSC or O/A Levels with minimum GPA 2.5.
- BSc Honours (16 years) in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Botany, Zoology, Agriculture, Fisheries, or relevant subjects with CGPA 2.5/4.0.
Barbados – The University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus
Programme Offered
- Master of Public Health
Course Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences, Biological Sciences, Management Sciences, or related professional qualifications.
- O-Level Mathematics (Grade 1 or 2) required for Biostatistics/Epidemiology modules.
- Good computer skills and personal laptop required.
- Application must include CV, referee reports, academic transcripts, and letter of intent.
Eswatini – University of Eswatini
Programmes Offered
- MSc Agricultural Extension
- MSc Conservation Ecology
- MSc Agricultural & Applied Economics
- MSc Environmental Resources Management (multiple specialisations)
- MSc Mathematics
Course Admission Requirements
- Relevant Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Biology, Economics, Chemistry, Geography, or related fields depending on specialisation.
- All applicants must hold a degree from a recognised university.
Jamaica – University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus
Programme Offered
- MSc Biomedical Research
Course Admission Requirements
- Graduate degree primarily based on research OR
- Taught Master’s degree with at least 25% research component and minimum B+ average OR
- Upgraded MPhil candidates meeting UWI requirements OR
- Equivalent qualifications approved by the Board for Graduate Studies.
Kenya – The Technical University of Kenya (TU-K)
Programmes Offered
- MTech Mechanical Engineering Technology
- MSc Computational Chemistry
- MSc Physics
- MSc Medical Physics
- MTech Design & Interactive Media
Course Admission Requirements
- Upper second class degree in relevant field OR
- Lower second class degree with postgraduate diploma/certificate plus 1–2 years relevant experience.
- Relevant undergraduate backgrounds include Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, IT, Media, Chemistry, Physics, Design, and related disciplines.
Mauritius – University of Mauritius
Programme Offered
- Master of Public Health
Course Admission Requirements
- Undergraduate degree with second class (50%) or GPA 2.5/4.0.
- Medically qualified applicants: MBBS/MBChB.
- Non-medical applicants: Upper second class degree or BDS with 2 years relevant experience.
- Strong academic background with quantitative and health-related competencies.
Sri Lanka – University of Kelaniya
Programmes Offered
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Business Management in Marketing
- MSc Biochemistry & Biotechnology
- Master of Medical Statistics
- Master of Business Studies
Course Admission Requirements (Summary)
- Bachelor’s degree (relevant disciplines preferred).
- Professional qualifications + executive/managerial experience may be accepted.
- For science programmes, applicants must have strong backgrounds in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Medical Sciences, or Statistics.
- Many programmes allow alternative qualifications approved by the University Senate.
Also Read, Doha Institute for Graduate Studies Scholarship 2026 in Qatar
Trinidad & Tobago – University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine Campus
Programme Offered
- MSc Data Science
Course Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA 2.5, lower second class degree, or equivalent in Computer Science, Statistics, or related field.
- Knowledge of programming, statistics, and linear algebra required.
- Candidates without the background may enter after completing qualifying courses assigned by the programme coordinator.
Uganda – Makerere University
Programmes Offered
- MSc Plant Breeding & Seed Systems
- MSc Civil Engineering
- MSc Climate Change & Development (partial details provided)
Course Admission Requirements
- Second class upper Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Seed Science, Forestry, or other biological fields (for Plant Breeding).
- BSc in Civil Engineering (upper second) OR lower second with proof of academic progression (for Civil Engineering).
- Relevant first degree with at least lower second class for Climate Change & Development.
QECS 2026 Duration:
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) are designed to support international students pursuing a full-time two-year Master’s degree in select Commonwealth countries. These scholarships offer not just academic funding but also the chance to build global networks and contribute to sustainable development in different parts of the world. Here’s a quick overview of the program duration:
- Two-Year Master’s Program
The scholarship covers a full 2-year postgraduate degree, allowing students enough time to deeply engage in their field of study, conduct research, and participate in community-based projects in the host country.
Benefits of the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships:
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2026-27 are a golden opportunity for students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree. The program not only supports academic growth but also encourages cross-cultural collaboration and leadership development. Here’s what selected scholars can expect in terms of financial and academic support:
Key Benefits of QECS 2026-27:
- Full Tuition Fee Coverage
Scholars will receive complete financial support for all tuition-related costs throughout the two-year Master’s program. - Living Allowance
A regular stipend will be provided to cover day-to-day living expenses, including housing, food, and transport. - Round-Trip Airfare
The scholarship includes return economy-class tickets from the scholar’s home country to the host university. - Arrival Allowance
A one-time allowance will be granted to help students settle into their new environment upon arrival. - Research Support
Scholars conducting research as part of their degree program will receive a research grant to help fund their academic projects.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be considered for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2026, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements set by the program. These criteria ensure that the opportunity is awarded to deserving individuals who are ready to make a meaningful impact in their communities through advanced education.
Eligibility Criteria for QECS 2026:
- Citizenship Requirement
Applicants must be citizens, refugees, or permanent residents of an eligible Commonwealth country. - Educational Qualification
A completed undergraduate or bachelor’s degree is required at the time of application. - No Age Limit
The QECS program welcomes applications from candidates of all age groups—there is no upper age restriction.
How to Apply for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships 2026:
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a fully funded Master’s degree in a Commonwealth country, the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) 2026 application process is simple but requires attention to detail. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you successfully submit your application online.
- Register a MyACU Account
Begin by creating an account on the official Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) website. You’ll receive a confirmation email once your registration is successful. - Log in and Access the Application
After registering, log in to your account to access the QECS application form. - Fill Out the Application Form
Carefully complete the application by providing accurate personal details, academic background, employment history, and your chosen course of study. - Confirm Course Availability
Before submitting, ensure that your selected course is available at the university you are applying to. - Write the Required Statements
Submit compelling responses to essay questions about your study plan, development goals, post-study engagement, and network-building strategies. - Prepare Supporting Documents
Have all your necessary documents (transcripts, certificates, reference letters, etc.) ready before starting the application. - Submit Your Application
Review everything thoroughly, then submit the application. You will receive a confirmation email once it has been submitted successfully.
