The Commonwealth Split-Site Scholarships support PhD students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries to spend up to 12 months of their study at a UK university. The programme is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and is designed for candidates who show strong potential to contribute to development in their home countries. The scholarships aim to build research capacity and foster academic collaboration between institutions in the Commonwealth. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and a clear plan for their research during the split-site period.

Applicants must be citizens or refugees of an eligible Commonwealth country and be permanently resident there. They must be registered for a PhD at a university in an eligible Commonwealth country by the time the scholarship is confirmed. A formal link between the home and host institutions is required. The scholarship is open to all academic disciplines. There are no additional income or grade requirements specified beyond PhD registration.

Apply through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s online application system. Prepare a detailed research plan, a supporting statement from your home supervisor, and a letter of invitation from a UK university supervisor. Submit academic transcripts, references, and proof of citizenship or refugee status. Ensure your application demonstrates how the scholarship will support your research and contribute to development in your home country. The official page lists the current application requirements and process.