Commonwealth Scholarships for Small Island Developing States

Commonwealth Scholarships for PNG Students – Fully Funded Master’s Programs in the UK (2025–2026)

Press Release, Scholarships

Commonwealth Scholarships Open for PNG and Small Island Developing States

Port Moresby, 12 September 2025 – Papua New Guinea (PNG) students now have the opportunity to pursue fully funded Master’s studies in the United Kingdom through the newly launched Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

The scholarship stream, funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), is designed to build resilience and prosperity among Commonwealth island nations, including PNG.

About the Commonwealth SIDS Scholarship Stream

Starting in the 2026–2027 academic year, the SIDS stream will award 20 fully funded Master’s scholarships per year for two consecutive years. The initiative is open to applicants who:

  • Demonstrate a passion for social impact.
  • Show clear plans to contribute to sustainable development in their home country.
  • Meet the eligibility and entry requirements set by both DHERST and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC).

This scholarship was announced as part of the UK Government’s commitment during the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa. The program aligns with CHOGM’s focus on:

  • Resilient democratic institutions promoting human rights and the rule of law.
  • Environmental resilience to combat climate change.
  • Economic resilience to drive prosperity.
  • Social resilience to empower citizens.

Support from PNG Leaders

Acting Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), Mr. Lonnie Baki, welcomed the initiative:

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.

CSC Chief Executive Officer, Annabel Boud, added:

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

Applications opened on 2 September 2025 and will close at 16:00 UTC+1 on 14 October 2025.

To apply, candidates must:

  1. Submit an application through DHERST.
  2. Complete a separate application with the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.
  3. Meet all eligibility requirements.
  4. Be prepared for an interview, if shortlisted.

Successful candidates will be notified by July 2026, and studies will commence in September/October 2026.

About the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) manages the UK government’s Commonwealth Scholarship scheme, offering postgraduate opportunities to individuals with outstanding academic and leadership potential. For PNG, DHERST serves as the in-country nominating agency.

More details can be found at:

Contact Information

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