Be part of the 2027 Commonwealth Study Conference
Study tomorrow's problems with tomorrow's leaders and shape the future together
The Commonwealth Study Conference (CSC) brings together exceptional leaders from across sectors to explore new ways to create positive change.
If selected, you’ll take part in a 10-day residential leadership programme in the UK (13th–22nd April 2027).
This page explains how to apply, what to prepare, and what to expect next. For more information about CSC 2027, download our comprehensive guide.
Our selection process
Our selection process ensures we curate a diverse, high-impact cohort of leaders who are ready to challenge perspectives and drive real-world action. It’s about building a balanced room where every voice brings a distinct, valuable perspective.
CSC UK is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with dignity, respect and fairness. We celebrate diversity and recognise the value that different backgrounds, experiences, perspectives and abilities bring to our organisation and community.
Phase One
Leadership potential
Applications close on October 14th (Extended Deadline)
Complete an online application assessing your leadership purpose, leadership experience, self-awareness and systems thinking.
Our selection panel will review all submissions thoroughly on a rolling basis. Successful candidates will be notified and invited to proceed to Phase Two. We are committed to informing all applicants of the outcome of their application by end of October 2026.
Requirements
- Complete the full online application form (1hr 30m - 2hr)
Phase Two
Leadership in practice
01 October–14 November 2026
Submit a single self-recorded video answering three leadership-focused questions.
Requirements
- Leadership video (10 min in total)
Phase Three
Leadership conversation
1–21 November 2026
Selected candidates may be invited to take part in a 45-minute interview to provide additional insight into their suitability for the programme. Please note that not all candidates will be required to complete this stage; invitations will be issued on a case-by-case basis.
Requirements
- Attend a 45-minute virtual interview (Select candidates only)
Final notification
30 November 2026
Successful applicants will be notified of their place on CSCUK 2027 by 30 November 2026.
Prepare for your application
For the best experience, we recommend gathering your materials and drafting your responses before applying. Here’s a guide on what to expect:
We estimate this application will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
Eligibility Criteria
You must be able to satisfy the full list of criteria below in order to proceed with your application:
- You are a Commonwealth Citizen
- You have unrestricted travel rights to the UK.
- You are available to travel in April 2027
- You are able to commit to the full programme and participate fully without work restrictions during the programme (in your normal place of employment)
- You can provide 2 x professional references
- You understand that if your application is successful, your travel to participate is at your own cost including all visas, transport and transfers to the UK (unless bursary agreed)
- You understand that this application is no guarantee of acceptance into the programme and the decision of the selection committee is final
Personal Details
In this section, we will ask for your basic identity and contact information including your current employment status, and career achievements. You’ll also be asked to provide:
- Your LinkedIn profile
- Links to any blog, Substack, or similar relevant sources
- 2x professional references
Reflection Questions
This section focuses on your leadership background. In addition to a few general details, you will be asked to respond to the following specific prompts:
1. Signature Leadership Experience
Maximum 100 words
Briefly describe one leadership role, initiative or responsibility that best represents your leadership journey.
Please include:
- Organisation
- Your role
- Time period
- The impact you made
2. Community Contribution
Maximum 100 words
Briefly describe one community, voluntary or professional contribution that is important to you.
3. Leadership Potential/ Leadership Purpose
Maximum 400 words
Looking ahead 10–15 years, what contribution do you hope to make to your community, sector or the Commonwealth? Why does this matter, and why are you committed to achieving it?
4. Leadership in Action
Maximum 300 words
Describe one leadership challenge that best demonstrates your ability to create positive change. Please include:
- What was the challenge?
- What action did you take?
- What impact did you achieve?
- What did you learn?
5. Leadership Reflection
Maximum 200 words
What has been the hardest lesson you have learned about yourself as a leader? How has it changed the way you lead?
6. Systems Thinking
Maximum 200 words
What important issue affecting your organisation, community or country is commonly misunderstood? What do you believe people are missing?
7. Additional Information (Optional)
Maximum 100 words
Is there anything else you would like the Selection Panel to know?
You may use this space to provide additional context that has not been captured elsewhere in your application
Ready to begin?
Please ensure you have drafted your responses before beginning, as the application form must be completed and submitted in a single session.
Support us
Inspiring the next generation of leaders
The Duke of Edinburgh Commonwealth Study Conferences UK requires the energy and support of a dedicated group of directors, advisory committees, donors, sponsoring organisations, alumni and volunteers.
We are looking for organisations to partner with us to help shape, deliver and finance the 2027 conference. We want to harness the perspectives, expertise and energy of our network to turbocharge these efforts – to bring fresh thinking to the programmes we are planning and to help us identify the highest and most diverse calibre of potential candidates, speakers and case studies.