Applications are now open for the highly anticipated Commonwealth Professional Fellowships 2026 in the United Kingdom. All the essential information is provided in this post about this prestigious opportunity, make sure to read all instructions carefully before applying. The Commonwealth Professional Fellowship aims to support mid-career professionals from low- and middle-income countries and offers a chance for spending a set period of time at one of the participating host organizations in the UK.
The fellowship lasts between 6 weeks and 3 months, fellows will be provided with an opportunity to work in their desired sector for professional growth. Its main goal is the enhancement of skills and knowledge of mid-career professionals, so they are able to make meaningful contributions to their home communities upon return. Applications are now open for professionals with a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in organizations based in low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries. The CSC fellowship adheres strongly to the principles of non-discrimination and equal rights, encouraging candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.
The fellowship is supported by the UK’s Department for International Development and managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission. In order to create a meaningful change this opportunity is for you. Applications for the CSC fellowship must be submitted by August 22, 2025. Find more details below.
Overview of the Commonwealth Professional Fellowship 2026
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Duration | 6 weeks – 3 months |
| Program Type | Fellowship |
| Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Countries | Low- and middle-income nations |
| Application Deadline | August 22, 2025 |
Themes of the Fellowship
The CSC Professional fellowships are offered in the 5 major development themes. Individuals working in the following sectors are invited to apply:
- Science & Technology for Development
- Strengthening Health Systems & Capacity
- Promoting Innovation & Entrepreneurship
- Strengthening Global Peace, Security & Governance
- Building Resilience & Crisis Response
- Enhancing Access, Inclusion & Opportunity
Financial Backing
The fellowship is entirely financed by the UK’s Department for International Development and ensures full support throughout the program. Each fellowship includes:
- Round-trip airfare to and from the UK
- Reimbursement of visa application costs
- Monthly stipend:
- £2,104 per month
- £2,612 per month for placements in London
- Support for individuals with disabilities
- Relocation allowance of up to £1,183.20
- An additional stipend of £2,000 per fellow provided by the host organization for attending conferences or short courses
Eligibility Criteria:
Individuals who fulfill the criteria listed below are encouraged to apply for the CSC Professional Fellowship:
- Professionals at mid-career level from low- and middle-income countries
- Individuals holding refugee status in a Commonwealth country
- Applicants with at least five years of full-time or part-time work experience relevant to the chosen fellowship program
- Currently employed at the time of application
- Commitment to return to their current organization after completing the fellowship
- Have not previously taken part in a Commonwealth fellowship
- Able to commit to the full duration of the fellowship
Eligible Countries:
The fellowship is open to citizens of the following low and middle-income countries
Bangladesh, Belize, Botswana, Cameroon, Dominica, Eswatini, Fiji, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Sri Lanka, St Helena, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Zambia.
Host Organizations:
Several UK-based institutions are taking part in this fellowship program. For detailed information about each program, please visit the link provided below.
- Lancaster University
- Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council
- Knowledge for Change
- Lifegate Outreach Centre
- Bees for Development
- Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust
- British Geological Survey
- Tackle
Application Requirements:
- A scanned copy of your passport or national ID card
- A personal statement of no more than 500 words
- Academic credentials, including degree certificates and transcripts
- Two professional reference letters, with at least one from your current employer
- A list of up to 10 publications and awards
- A statement explaining the relevance of your previous work experience
Key Dates
- Host organizations announced: July 2025
- Application period: July 1 – August 22, 2025
- Results declared: October 2025
- Fellowship commencement: February 2026
Steps to Apply for the Commonwealth Professional Fellowships 2026
The application must be completed online through the official portal. Follow the steps outlined below to apply.
Step 1: Go to the official application portal
Step 2: Fill out the online application form
Step 3: Attach all necessary documents
Step 4: Submit your application before the deadline
Deadline: Friday 22, August 2025 at 16:00 BST
Access the official portal below to complete and submit your application:
