Applications are now open for the Commonwealth Professional Fellowship 2026 in the United Kingdom, offering fully funded opportunities for mid-career professionals from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries. The programme aims to enhance professional skills and knowledge, enabling fellows to make significant contributions to development in their home countries after returning.
Selected fellows will be placed with UK-based organisations directly linked to their professional expertise. The fellowship duration ranges from six weeks to three months, with programmes scheduled to begin in February 2026. The deadline for applications is August 22, 2025.
The fellowship is designed around six key development themes: science and technology for development; strengthening health systems and capacity; promoting innovation and entrepreneurship; strengthening global peace, security, and governance; building resilience and crisis response; and ensuring access, inclusion, and opportunity.
The award covers return airfare, visa fee reimbursement, a monthly stipend for living costs, arrival allowance, and travel support within the UK. Additional assistance will be provided for fellows with disabilities.
Several UK organisations will host fellows under this programme, including Bees for Development, British Geological Survey, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, Lancaster University, Knowledge for Change, Lifegate Outreach Centre, Tackle, and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
To be eligible, applicants must be citizens of an eligible Commonwealth country, hold refugee status in one, or be a British Protected Person. They must also have at least five years of relevant full-time work experience, be employed at the time of application, and provide two references.
The fellowship is regarded as a valuable platform for professional growth and international collaboration, providing mid-career leaders with the tools to drive sustainable development in their communities.
