The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission launches Master’s scholarships to boost resilience and prosperity among Commonwealth islands states.
New scholarship opportunities are now available to study in the UK following the launch of the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), an initiative that will expand educational opportunities for citizens of PNG and other island nations across the Commonwealth.
Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, the SIDS stream will offer 20 fully funded Master’s scholarships per year for two consecutive years to applicants who can demonstrate a passion for social impact and a pathway towards sustainable development following their studies.
The initiative is part of the UK Government’s commitment to strengthening bonds with the Commonwealth as announced by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and former Foreign Secretary David Lammy at the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa. The SIDS stream is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and will contribute to the aims of CHOGM, which set out to deliver:
- Resilient democratic institutions upholding human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
- A resilient environment to combat climate change.
- Resilient economies that support recovery and prosperity.
- Resilient societies to empower individuals for a peaceful and productive life.
The SIDS stream is open to applicants from Papua New Guinea. The Department of Higher Education, Research Science and Technology’s (DHERST) Acting Secretary, Mr Lonnie Baki said:
This new scholarship is an investment in your future that can allow you to achieve your goals, make a positive impact, grow personally and professionally, and contribute meaningfully to the development of Papua New Guinea. We encourage applicants to seize this opportunity and apply for this scholarship.
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s (CSC) Chief Executive Officer, Annabel Boud said:
This new scholarship stream will equip aspiring change-makers with the knowledge, skills, and networks to take on the unique challenges faced by small island nations. We look forward to supporting these Scholars in their efforts to strengthen resilience and deliver a sustainable future for countries across the Commonwealth.
Application process
Individuals can apply for the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship stream for SIDS through the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology. In addition, they must submit an application to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.
Applicants must meet all entry requirements and eligibility criteria set out by their nominating agency and may be asked to attend an interview. Successful candidates will be informed by July 2026. The scholarships will begin in September/October 2026.