Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) Global Grants 2026: Up to GBP 5,000 for Students

The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) is offering Global Grants for 2026, providing undergraduate students with funding to attend academic programmes in different Commonwealth countries. This opportunity aims to support academic development and international experience for students at ACU member universities. Applications are open to students from Commonwealth countries, with specific allocations for UK citizens and other Commonwealth nations.

Application Closing Date: August 25, 2026
Location: Commonwealth countries (at ACU member institutions)
Programme Duration: Short-term academic programmes (e.g., summer or winter schools)
Stipend: Up to GBP 5,000
Minimum Qualification: Registered undergraduate student

About the ACU Global Grants Programme

The ACU Global Grants programme provides funding for undergraduate students to participate in short-term academic programmes, often referred to as summer or winter schools. These programmes must be hosted by an ACU member institution located in a Commonwealth country different from the applicant’s home country. The grants are designed to foster academic growth, offer international exposure, and encourage knowledge sharing among students across the Commonwealth.

A portion of these grants is made possible through the legacy funding from the HW Paxton Trust. This initiative supports the ACU’s mission to build a global network of universities working together to improve lives and address global challenges. The focus is on providing students with valuable learning experiences beyond their home institutions.

About the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU)

The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) is the world’s leading international network of universities. It brings together universities from across the Commonwealth to share knowledge, experience, and best practices. The ACU supports its member universities in their mission to provide high-quality education and research.

The organization works to strengthen higher education and research for the benefit of society. It focuses on areas such as student mobility, research collaboration, and leadership development. ACU member universities are located in over 50 countries, creating a diverse and extensive network for global cooperation.

Available Grant Opportunities

The ACU Global Grants 2026 offers a total of 10 awards, with each grant valued at up to GBP 5,000. These awards are divided into two categories:

• Five awards are specifically for citizens of the United Kingdom, funded by the HW Paxton Trust.
• Five awards are available for citizens of, or individuals holding refugee status in, Commonwealth countries other than the United Kingdom.

What the Grant Offers

Successful applicants for the ACU Global Grants will receive financial support to cover costs associated with attending an international academic programme. The grant can be used for various expenses, including:

• Travel costs to and from the host country.
• Accommodation and living expenses during the programme.
• Programme fees, if applicable.
• Other related academic expenses.

This funding allows students to gain valuable international academic experience and broaden their understanding of global issues. It also provides an opportunity to network with peers and academics from different countries.

Programme Duration and Location

The ACU Global Grants are intended for short-term academic programmes, such as summer or winter schools. These programmes must be hosted by an ACU member institution in a Commonwealth country. The official start date of the chosen programme must fall between December 1, 2026, and August 31, 2027. The specific location will depend on the chosen academic programme and the host university.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the ACU Global Grants 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be currently registered as an undergraduate student at an ACU member institution.
• Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country, or hold refugee status in a Commonwealth country.
• Identify a short-term academic programme (‘summer’ or ‘winter’ school) that is related to their field of study.
• The chosen programme must be hosted by an ACU member institution in a Commonwealth country.
• Provide a letter of institutional support from a departmental head or academic/course supervisor at their current university.
• Provide a letter of support from the host institution for the proposed programme.

Competencies Required

While specific competencies are not listed, applicants should demonstrate qualities that will enable them to benefit from and contribute to an international academic programme. These may include:

• Strong academic interest in the chosen programme.
• Ability to adapt to new environments and cultures.
• Good communication skills.
• Willingness to learn and engage with diverse perspectives.
• A proactive approach to seeking international learning opportunities.

Who Should Apply?

This grant is ideal for undergraduate students who are eager to gain international academic experience and broaden their horizons. If you are studying at an ACU member university and wish to attend a short-term academic programme in another Commonwealth country, this grant can help make it possible. It is particularly suited for students looking to deepen their knowledge in their field of study through an international lens.

Required Documents

Applicants will need to prepare the following documents for their application:

• Proof of registration as an undergraduate student at an ACU member institution.
• A letter of institutional support from your current university.
• A letter of support from the proposed programme host institution.
• Any other documents specified in the application guidance on the ACU website.

Applicants are advised to carefully review the official application guidance for a complete list of required documentation.

How to Apply

To apply for the ACU Global Grants 2026:

• Review the FAQs and Application Guidance documents available on the ACU website.
• Submit your application through the online application form.
• If you have a MyACU account, log in and access the grant application form directly.
• If you do not have a MyACU account, register for one first, then follow the instructions in your registration email to log in and access the application form.

Ensure all information is accurate and all required documents are uploaded before submitting your application.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the ACU.
• Ensure your chosen programme meets all the eligibility criteria, including the start date and host institution.
• Carefully read all instructions and guidance provided by the ACU before submitting your application.
• Applications must be submitted by the closing date of August 25, 2026.

Closing Date

The closing date for the ACU Global Grants 2026 is August 25, 2026.

SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS.