Applications are now open for the Commonwealth Professional Fellowships 2026, offering mid-career professionals from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, the chance to advance their knowledge, leadership, and professional development through a fully funded placement in the UK.
The Commonwealth Professional Fellowships are designed for individuals with at least five years of relevant experience in their sector. This prestigious programme allows selected professionals to spend time at a UK host organisation working directly in their field, gaining hands-on experience, sharing expertise, and returning home to create a lasting impact within their communities and institutions.
Fellowship Objectives
- Enhance professional skills and leadership capabilities
- Catalyse growth and innovation in fellows’ home institutions
- Encourage sustainable development through sector-specific training and knowledge exchange
Development Themes
Applicants must align their proposed fellowship with one of the following six key development areas:
- 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
European Union Traineeships Programme 2026 (Fully Funded)
What the Commonwealth Professional Fellowships Cover
This is a fully funded opportunity, meaning the programme will cover:
- Return airfare to the UK
- Approved tuition or training fees
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
- Support for disability accommodations, if required
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
- Be a citizen of an eligible Commonwealth country (including Nigeria), a British Protected Person, or a recognised refugee in an eligible country
- Be a permanent resident in an eligible country
- Have at least five years of full-time relevant work experience
- Be employed at the time of application and return to your organisation after the fellowship
- Provide two references, one from your current employer
- Not have received a Commonwealth Professional Fellowship within the last five years
- Not pursuing an academic research programme (academics may apply for professional development, not research)
- Be available to start the fellowship on the designated date
Additional eligibility requirements may apply depending on the host organisation you choose.
Eligible Countries
Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Jamaica, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, and many more. (Full list available on the application site)
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Commonwealth Professional Fellowships is 4:00 PM (BST) on Friday, 22 August 2025.
Application Steps
- Review the programmes offered by various UK host organisations. Select one that aligns with your professional goals and sector.
- Prepare your supporting documents, including a CV, employer reference, and personal statement.
- Please complete and submit your online application by the deadline.
For details about each host organisation’s programme, visit the “Host Organisation Programmes” section on the official website.
John H. McArthur Research Fellowship in USA (Funded)
Why You Should Apply for Commonwealth Professional Fellowships
The Commonwealth Professional Fellowships are more than a training opportunity—they’re a launchpad for leaders committed to development and innovation. Whether you’re in public health, tech, education, peacebuilding, or governance, this programme equips you to drive change in your field and your country.
APPLY FOR THE COMMONWEALTH PROFESSIONAL FELLOWSHIPS
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