Association of Commonwealth Universities

About the Association of Commonwealth Universities

The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) is a charity based in Woburn House in London. Founded in 1913, it is widely seen as the world's oldest international university network. More than 400 universities in over 40 countries belong to it, from large research institutions to young universities in some of the least developed places. Member institutions elect its council, and the council members act as trustees.

The ACU's mission is to promote excellence in higher education across the Commonwealth. It does this by running research projects, leadership programmes, networks and events. It also manages scholarships on behalf of funders, which is the part of its work that matters most to students.

How the ACU supports students

The best-known scheme is the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships. These awards fund a two-year master's degree in a low or middle-income Commonwealth country. They aim to train people who then contribute to development at home. The scholarships cover tuition, a living stipend, return flights, an arrival allowance and a research support grant.

South African universities have taken part as hosts. In recent rounds, the University of Pretoria, Stellenbosch University and Tshwane University of Technology offered places. However, the scheme is built for people travelling between Commonwealth countries. Applicants must be citizens of, or hold refugee status in, a Commonwealth country other than the one hosting them. In other words, a South African citizen cannot use the award to study at a South African university.

The ACU also lists other awards and partners with different funders from time to time. Because its offering changes, the best habit is to read the scholarships section of its website regularly. South African students who want to study abroad should also look at the postgraduate funding offices of their own universities, which often list Commonwealth awards.

What to know before applying

Applicants normally need a first degree at upper second-class level or the equivalent. They also need to show they cannot afford the study without support. Selection usually involves a nomination or an online application, followed by a review of your academic record and development goals. Each round has its own opening and closing dates, which change every year. For example, the 2025 round ran from mid-April to early June.

The ACU runs the application, but the host university and the funder make the final decisions. Prepare a strong personal statement, academic transcripts and referees. Always check the eligibility rules for your own country, because they differ.

No single work-back rule applies to all ACU awards, since each scholarship has its own conditions. Read your award letter closely and ask the awarding body to explain any obligations in writing.