Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
Introduction
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) are a prestigious and competitive scholarship program that offers opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to pursue postgraduate studies in various fields. The program was established in 2015 and is managed by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) in partnership with the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK, as well as several other organizations.
In this blog post, we will explore the background of the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships, the benefits of the program, the application process, and success stories of previous scholars.
Background Information on the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
The QECS was launched in 2015 by the UK government as a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II for her lifelong commitment to the Commonwealth. The scholarships aim to develop the skills and knowledge of talented individuals from Commonwealth countries and help them contribute to the development of their home countries. The program also aims to promote intercultural exchange and understanding among Commonwealth countries.
The scholarships are available to citizens of Commonwealth countries who have completed their undergraduate studies and wish to pursue a postgraduate degree in a field related to the development of their home country. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses for the duration of the program.
Benefits of the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
Academic Benefits: The QECS provides students with the opportunity to study at some of the most prestigious universities in the world, such as the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and the University of Edinburgh. Scholars have access to world-class facilities, resources, and expertise in their chosen field of study.
Career Benefits: QECS graduates are highly sought after by employers due to the prestige of the scholarship and the high caliber of the universities they attend. Scholars gain valuable skills and experience that make them competitive in the job market, and the program provides opportunities for professional development and networking.
Cultural Benefits: QECS scholars have the opportunity to experience new cultures and develop a global perspective. The program encourages intercultural exchange and understanding, which can enhance scholars' personal and professional growth.
Networking Opportunities: Scholars have access to a network of QECS alumni, who are leaders in their fields and are making significant contributions to the development of their home countries. This network provides opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and professional development.
How to Apply for the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
Application Process
:Meet the eligibility criteria, which includes being a citizen of a Commonwealth country, having completed an undergraduate degree, and having a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Submit an online application form, which can be found on the QECS website.
Provide academic transcripts from all universities attended.
Submit a CV that highlights academic achievements, leadership experience, and community involvement.
Provide two letters of reference from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant's academic and leadership potential.
Submit a research proposal if applying for a research-based degree.
Selection Process:A panel of experts will review the applications and assess the candidates' academic merit, leadership potential, and commitment to the development of their home countries.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a virtual interview.
Final decisions will be made based on the interview and application materials.
Tips for a Successful Application:Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
Carefully read the application instructions and follow them closely.Prepare a strong research proposal that aligns with the QECS's objectives and showcases your academic potential.
Choose referees who know you well and can provide compelling letters of reference that speak to your academic and leadership potential.
Emphasize your commitment to the development of your home country and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
Proofread your application materials and ask someone else to review them for clarity and accuracy.
What does the scholarship cover?
Fully-funded tuition fees
- Living allowance (stipend) for duration of award
- Return economy flights to host country
- One-off arrival allowance
- Research Support Grant (on request only; subject to approval)
Success Stories of Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholars
There are many success stories of QECS alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions to their home countries and beyond. For example, Aderonke Adefalujo, a QECS alumna from Nigeria, used her scholarship to pursue a master's degree in Renewable Energy Engineering at the University of Edinburgh.
Host Countries:Bangladesh
Host Universities:University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
- University of Eswatini (UNESWA), Eswatini
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), Ghana
- The University of the West Indies, Jamaica
- Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
- University of Malaya, Malaysia
- University of Mauritius, Mauritius
- COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan
- The State University of Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Makerere University, Ugand