Commonwealth Professional Fellowship, UK – Eligibility Criteria, Benefits and Application Process

The Commonwealth Professional Fellowship is a prestigious program designed to support mid-career professionals from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries. This fellowship offers a unique opportunity for professional development, enabling participants to enhance their skills and knowledge through a UK-based program.

This blog will explore the eligibility criteria, benefits, and application process for the Commonwealth Professional Fellowship.

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These fellowships are offered under six development themes:

• Science and technology for development
• Strengthening health systems and capacity
• Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship
• Strengthening global peace, security and governance
• Strengthening resilience and response to crises
• Access, inclusion and opportunity
• Duration –  6 weeks – 3 months

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for these Fellowships, prospective Fellows must:

• Be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country, or be a British Protected Person
• Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country
• Have at least five years’ full-time, or equivalent part-time, relevant work experience, in a profession related to the subject of the fellowship programme
• Be in employment at the time of application at an organisation that they will return to upon completion of the fellowship
• Provide at least two references
• Not have undertaken a Commonwealth Professional Fellowship within the last five years (at the time of taking up the award)
• Not be seeking to undertake an academic programme of research or study. Academics are eligible to apply for the scheme, but only to undertake programmes of academic management, not research or courses relevant to their research subject
• Be available to undertake their fellowship from the prescribed start date

Benefits

Each Fellowship provides:

• Return airfare from the Fellow’s home country to the UK.
• Reimbursement of the standard visa application fee.
• Stipend (living allowance) payable monthly (or pro rata) for the duration of the award at the rate of GBP 2,057 per month, or GBP 2,553 per month for those at organisations in the London metropolitan area.
• If a Fellow declares a disability, a full assessment of needs and eligibility for additional financial support will be offered by the CSC.
• Arrival allowance of up to GBP 1,156.60
• A maximum of GBP 3,000 per Fellow can be agreed by host organisations for short courses/conferences as well as travel to visit other UK organisations where this forms an integral part of the programme. 

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How to apply?

The application process for the Commonwealth Professional Fellowship involves several steps:

1. Identify Host Organization: Applicants must identify and secure a host organization in the UK. The host organization should provide a detailed program of the professional development activities to be undertaken.
2. Application Submission: Candidates must complete the online application form available on the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s website. The application should include details about the applicant’s professional background, the proposed fellowship program, and how it will benefit their home country.
3. Supporting Documents: Applicants need to submit various supporting documents, including:
   • Proof of citizenship or refugee status.
   • A reference from their current employer.
   • A detailed plan of the fellowship program, including the objectives and expected outcomes.
   • An outline of how the fellowship aligns with the applicant’s professional development goals.
4. Selection Process: Applications are assessed based on the applicant’s professional experience, the relevance and impact of the fellowship program, and the potential benefit to their home country. The selection process may include interviews or additional assessments.
5. Notification of Results: Successful applicants are notified of their selection and provided with further details about the fellowship program, including travel arrangements and accommodation.

• Deadline – 5th August 2024
• Official link – https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-professional-fellowships-information-for-candidates/ 
• Link to apply – https://fs29.formsite.com/m3nCYq/h08upm6r35/login 

Conclusion

The Commonwealth Professional Fellowship is a transformative opportunity for mid-career professionals from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to enhance their skills and contribute to development in their home countries. By providing comprehensive support, including professional development, financial assistance, and access to a global network, the fellowship empowers individuals to drive positive change and make a lasting impact in their fields.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to professional growth and development, consider applying for this prestigious fellowship to advance your career and contribute to the development of your home country.

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