Collaborative agreement with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
The University of St Andrews has a collaborative agreement with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to offer Chevening and Commonwealth Shared Scholarships for taught postgraduate degrees. This partnership aims to develop global leadership and foster international cooperation through world-class educational opportunities in the UK.
-
Chevening is the UK's global Masters scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and partner organisations. Awards are typically for a one-year Masters degree at universities across the UK. There are over 50,000 Chevening Alumni around the world who together comprise an influential and highly regarded global network.
Full details are on the Chevening website.
In addition to the main Chevening scholarship, we are pleased to co-fund a number of bespoke partner awards. For Chevening Partner Awards, the University of St Andrews will sponsor up to ten awards for applicants from the following countries:
Ghana
Kenya
Malawi
Rwanda
South Africa
Tanzania
Uganda
ZambiaFull eligibility criteria can be found on the Chevening scholarship webpage
-
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme is a joint initiative between the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission and UK universities to support students from developing Commonwealth countries. Further information about the scholarship can be found on the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship webpage.
The aim of the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme (CSSS) is to assist students from developing Commonwealth countries who are of excellent academic caliber but for financial reasons would not otherwise be able to afford to study in the United Kingdom. The scheme allows them to benefit from postgraduate study at a university in the United Kingdom which will help them to contribute toward the development of their home countries.
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are offered on an annual basis for full-time postgraduate Masters study only. Eligible courses at the University of St Andrews are:
- MLitt Terrorism and Political Violence
- MSc Energy Policy and Finance
- MLitt International Security Studies
- MSc Health Data Science
- MSc Global Sustainable Development
Full details about eligibility how to apply are available at St Andrews - Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme (CSSS)
-
I wholeheartedly encourage you to do your best to experience education at the University of St Andrews (UStA). Studying the MLitt in Terrorism and Political Violence (TPV) on the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship (CSC) has truly been a life-changing journey. My time here has not only broadened my knowledge and deepened my understanding of terrorism, political violence, and related fields, but it has also sharpened my research and analytical skills.
I have grown more aware, innovative, and far more confident in my ability to make a difference in matters of national and global security, particularly in understanding political violence and countering extremism. This opportunity has strengthened my leadership abilities, gifted me with a rich global network, and renewed my hope for the future I aspire to build.
The TPV programme, delivered by distinguished scholars from the Handa Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence (CSTPV), is carefully structured and deeply engaging. Each module covered vital themes that aligned perfectly with my interests. Learning from world-class professors, who were both highly knowledgeable and approachable, was an absolute joy.
The teaching approach balanced academic guidance, peer interaction, and independent study, which built my confidence and prepared me for high-level scholarship. I also had the privilege of engaging with global experts through lectures and CSTPV events, an invaluable opportunity that enriched my academic journey.
The University of St Andrews provides an environment where students from every background can thrive. I am particularly grateful for the timely and thoughtful support I received from the student services team whenever I needed it. In just one year, I made lasting friendships with classmates from across the globe, reflecting the university’s truly international community.
Beyond my core programme, I benefited immensely from short skills-training courses offered by the International Education and Lifelong Learning Institute (IELLI). These workshops enhanced my communication, academic writing, presentation, and policy engagement skills, among others.
Equally memorable were the vibrant social opportunities. As a postgraduate member of St Leonard’s College, I often joined free events, sports activities, social hangouts, and cultural gatherings, which provided a healthy balance of relaxation and interaction. The university’s genuine attention to the well-being of postgraduates is something I deeply commend.
The town of St Andrews itself is an ideal setting for study. Its blend of serenity, fresh air, natural beauty, and breathtaking views makes it a truly inspiring place to live and learn. The warmth and respectfulness of the community add to its charm, making my stay here even more special.
Thanks to the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, I was also able to explore beyond Scotland, visiting more than a dozen cities across England, Northern Ireland, and Wales. An experience that further enriched my time in the UK.
Studying Terrorism and Political Violence at the prestigious University of St Andrews through the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship remains one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences of my life. If you ever have the chance to study here, I urge you: do not miss it.
Justice Tekper (Commonwealth Shared scholar - MLitt Terrorism and Political Violence)
I am delighted to share my experiences as a 2023 Commonwealth Shared Scholarship MSc scholar in Health Data Science at St Andrews University. From the moment I arrived at St Andrews, I was captivated by the welcoming atmosphere and the vibrant academic community. The university’s rich history, combined with its commitment to innovation, creates a unique environment that fosters both personal and academic growth.
The MSc in Health Data Science program has been a rigorous and rewarding journey. The course content is solid, comprehensive, and well-structured, providing a robust foundation in the field. The program’s emphasis on practical application, coupled with theoretical knowledge, has equipped me with the skills necessary to tackle real-world challenges in health data science. One of the highlights of my time at St Andrews has been the opportunity to work on complex datasets and apply machine learning algorithms to solve pressing healthcare problems. These hands-on experiences have not only honed my technical skills but also deepened my understanding of the potential of AI in transforming healthcare. Beyond academics, St Andrews offers a wealth of extracurricular activities and support services that have enriched my student experience. The university’s commitment to student wellbeing and success is evident in every aspect of campus life.
In conclusion, being a part of St Andrews University has been an enriching and transformative experience. The knowledge and skills I have gained during my time here have prepared me to make meaningful contributions to the field of health data science. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow in such a supportive and stimulating environment. As I look back on my time at St Andrews, I am proud to say that I am “Forever a Saint”.
Jeremiah Akintomide (Commonwealth Shared scholar - MSc Health Data Science)
Pursuing my masters degree at St Andrews is one of the best and right decisions I’ve ever made in my life. It’s a very lovely small town, which is a perfect place for me to focus and study in peace. The university itself offers a lot of beneficial opportunities, such as academic services, sports facilities, entertainment events, and even Scottish traditions. I truly feel the definition of work-life balance here because whenever I got bored with my study load in the library, I could just relax and enjoy the fresh air walking around the beaches and playing golf with splendid coastal views. My lecturers at the International Education Institute have provided me with comprehensive pedagogical knowledge and skill set to achieve my future goals in teaching languages for students with specific learning difficulties by integrating technologies. I am beyond grateful to be able to get this valuable and unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I hope you can too!
Haidir Faridha (Chevening scholar - MSc Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) with a Specialism in Technology for Teaching)
The University of St Andrews has provided an amazing academic experience for me. My program MSc Data-Intensive Analysis is run jointly by the School of Computer Science and the School of Mathematics and Statistics, both ranked in the top 5 of UK rankings. In the School of Computer Science, we learn how one design pattern could inspire different solutions, and each student could have a unique approach to the same programming task. In the School of Mathematics and Statistics, we are encouraged to think critically and assess how our resulting analyses can make an impact in the broader picture. For both schools, the lecturers have been approachable and extremely knowledgeable in their fields and have been open to providing feedback when requested. There are also several computer labs offering 24-hour access for quiet work or collaboration, so there’s always a place to work on individual assignments and group coursework. The university has also been quite supportive of me whenever I've needed guidance. From my school adviser and postgraduate support officers to the university’s Advice and Support Centre, the faculty and staff here have been very responsive and helpful. The area around the university is great if you like the outdoors, with peaceful walks around town or along the beach. On rare nights, it’s even possible to see the Northern Lights from the coast! Overall, I’ve enjoyed my time at the University of St Andrews, and pursuing my Masters degree here has been a rewarding and enriching experience.
Joshua Arrabaca (Chevening scholar - MSc Data-Intensive Analysis)
My choice of the University of St Andrews was both strategic and timely.
In a small corner of my room in Owerri, Nigeria, I often sat reflecting on how to access quality education in the security field and amplify my contribution to peace and development in my country. Then the idea of pursuing a second master’s degree struck me. I searched for the right place to study one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges—terrorism. When I found the Centre for the Study of Terrorism & Political Violence (CSTPV) at the University of St Andrews, I knew I had found the perfect academic home.
What made the Centre stand out for me? It is Europe’s oldest research centre devoted to the study of terrorism, and it is housed within the St Andrews School of International Relations—the top department of its kind in the UK. I was confident that studying here would give me access to the finest minds in my field.
Since arriving in September 2024, I have grown immensely. The University and the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, which I am privileged to hold, have changed my life. My professional network has expanded. My analytical and critical thinking skills have deepened. My writing has improved significantly. I am grateful to CSTPV for the seminars, lectures, and roundtables it organised. These provided me with the rare opportunity to engage directly with leading scholars in my field, including Professors Alex Schmid, John Horgan, and Bruce Hoffman. These are scholars I once only read about, but today, I am proud to have listened to them speak, learned from them, and even asked them questions.
The support I have received from my professors has been nothing short of extraordinary. Beyond the classroom, CSTPV also offered me the chance to work as a research assistant on an important project. The experience has further enriched my academic journey.
For me, St Andrews is not just a university; it is a transformative experience. It is a beautiful place. I am leaving better than I came. I am more knowledgeable, more confident, and well-prepared for the future. The University turns dreams into reality!
Rex Obiwuru (Commonwealth Shared scholar - MLitt Terrorism & Political Violence)
My name is Tulonga, originally from Okahao, Namibia. I am currently completing an MSc in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), with a specialization in English Medium Instruction (EMI), at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. This academic journey has been made possible through the prestigious Chevening Scholarship, for which I am deeply grateful. Studying at one of the top-ranked universities in the United Kingdom and globally has been an immense privilege.
My experience at St Andrews has been both intellectually enriching and personally transformative. The programme has equipped me with essential skills for English language teaching and has enhanced my pedagogical capabilities, particularly in EMI contexts. I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical foundations of TESOL and its core principles, knowledge that is invaluable to my roles in English language instruction and curriculum leadership.
Beyond academic growth, the programme offered extensive opportunities to enhance my skills in academic writing and the integration of digital technologies into education. One of the most rewarding aspects of the experience has been the intercultural learning environment. Studying alongside peers from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds has broadened my perspective on English language teaching practices around the world and significantly deepened my intercultural competence.
Additionally, the support provided by the university has been exceptional. Learning resources such as lecture recordings and avenues like seminar discussions, online forums, and open communication channels between students and lecturers have created a highly supportive academic atmosphere. Weekly seminars and interactions with both in-person and distance-learning peers, of whom many are seasoned educators, further enriched the learning process. Among the university’s many excellent study spaces, the Main Library quickly became my preferred place to read and reflect.
Perhaps most memorable has been my personal connection to the environment. Residing on the second floor of a university’s seaside residence, I had the privilege of waking each morning to the view of the sea. This serene and inspiring setting contributed profoundly to my sense of well-being, belonging and motivation throughout the year.
Tulonga Litula (Chevening scholar - MSc in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL))
My experience as a Chevening Scholar at the University of St Andrews has been amazing, and I could not be more grateful for having this opportunity. I regularly reassure myself that coming here was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
The University of St Andrews is the perfect place to focus on studying while maintaining an active social life and enjoying the outdoors. The wide variety of societies and clubs is exciting, and the cosmopolitan, close-knit community is warmly welcoming. The town’s size means you're just 10 minutes away from almost everywhere, making combining different activities in a single day easy. The stunning Scottish seaside landscape and well-kept green spaces invite you outside whenever the sun is shining (very often, as this is the sunniest university in Scotland!).
The high quality of education and research reflects the university’s long history and renown. In particular, the MSc in Energy Policy and Finance has equipped me with invaluable insights and skills for my future career back home. The knowledgeable professors and diverse group of classmates have helped me further develop critical thinking and soft skills. At the same time, the emphasis on independent study has strengthened my analytical capacity, confidence, and self-reliance.
I’m sure I will leave St Andrews feeling inspired, empowered, and grateful to be part of a global community I will carry with me for years to come.
Valentina Groposo Bertin (Chevening scholar - MSc Energy Policy and Finance)
