Aarti Rajput’s Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Story: From Trilokpuri to the University of Sussex

My name is Aarti Rajput, and I come from New Delhi, India. I belong to the Dalit community and was raised in Trilokpuri, a neighborhood where I attended a local government school for my early education. Growing up in a socio-economically marginalized family, we relied heavily on government services and welfare schemes to meet our daily needs. This dependence, from a very young age, made me curious about the role of the state in people’s lives.

As I progressed in school, subjects like civics began to catch my attention. Learning about the Constitution, government policies, and institutions sparked a deep interest in how systems of governance function and how they could be used to support vulnerable communities like my own. This growing awareness and passion led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in political science (Honours) at Delhi University.

My journey in higher education not only deepened my understanding of politics and power but also strengthened my resolve to work for those at the margins of society. After completing my undergraduate studies, I enrolled in a Diploma Course in Conflict Transformation and Peacebuilding, seeking tools to better engage with injustice and contribute to social change.

During this time, I was also selected for an international exchange programme with Fukuoka Women’s University in Japan. Although the programme was conducted online due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it provided me with a valuable cross-cultural learning experience and expanded my perspective on global approaches to peace and justice.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Details

My journey toward receiving this scholarship began in 2022, when I made the decision to pursue my master’s degree and to do so abroad. Coming from a low-income background and being the sole breadwinner for my family, I knew that this dream could only be realized with the support of a full scholarship.

With courage in my heart and hope in my eyes, I began applying to some of the most prestigious universities around the world. I had nothing to rely on but my education, my greatest strength. To my surprise and joy, I received admission offers from all the universities I applied to in 2022. However, securing funding was another battle altogether. That year, I reached the interview stage for the Chevening Scholarship but was ultimately rejected. I also applied for the Commonwealth Scholarship but didn’t make it through.

Despite these setbacks, I refused to give up. I remained committed to the dream I had envisioned for myself. I reached out to the universities and requested to defer my admission offers by a year, determined to try again.

In 2023, I reapplied, this time for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship under the theme Access, Inclusion and Opportunity. And this time, I succeeded. I was awarded the fully funded Commonwealth Shared Scholarship to pursue a master’s degree at the Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, ranked number one globally in development studies by the QS World Rankings.

The scholarship covers all major expenses, including full tuition fees, return airfare, visa costs, and living expenses. The monthly stipend, which varies slightly with exchange rates and inflation, is more than enough to live comfortably as a student in the UK free from financial stress and able to focus fully on learning and growth.

Educational Background

I pursued a bachelor’s degree in political science (Honours) at Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Delhi. Before that, I completed my schooling at a government school, where I chose humanities as my stream in higher secondary education. I scored 95% in my 12th-grade board exams and graduated from university with first-class honors.

Having lived through the harsh realities of life, often struggling for even the most basic amenities, I saw education as a powerful tool to transform my circumstances and become the person I had always dreamed of being.

My father played a crucial role in shaping this vision. He faced countless struggles in his own youth, trying to pursue education while also carrying the weight of family responsibilities. Despite all odds, he remained committed to the value of learning. He consistently encouraged me and my siblings to make books our best friends, emphasizing that education was the most effective way to change our lives. He was strict and disciplined when it came to our studies, but it came from a place of deep belief in his power. His life stories became my source of strength and motivation. They inspired me to break the barriers that often hold back people from marginalized communities like mine from chasing their dreams.

Today, I stand as a role model for the younger generation in my town. I work to inspire them, showing through my journey that nothing is impossible if you are determined and willing to work hard. Because in the end, hard work always pays off

How Did You Prepare to Apply to UK Institutions? Did You Take any Standardized Tests? How Did You Prepare for the IELTS?

My application journey began with thorough research on the university websites. I explored the relevant courses that aligned with my academic background and future goals. I carefully reviewed course details, including the structure, modules, research components, and overall relevance. Then, I took time to reflect on how each course would benefit me, what skills and knowledge I would gain, and how I could actively contribute to the classroom and university community. I also thought about how I could be an asset to the institution if selected for the programme.

With this clarity, I began drafting my Statement of Purpose (SOP), focusing on demonstrating how my background, experiences, and aspirations aligned with the course. I supported my SOP with relevant examples of my academic achievements, leadership roles, and social engagement, showing the university what I could bring to the table.

At the same time, I researched scholarships thoroughly, particularly the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship. I paid close attention to the themes under which the scholarship was offered and identified the courses eligible for application. While preparing my SOP and scholarship answers, I also started working on the Commonwealth application form. I took special care to respond thoughtfully and accurately to each question. Since the Commonwealth application requires a university application number, I made sure to submit both applications to the university and scholarship around the same time.

For universities with an English language requirement, I began preparing for the IELTS exam. It's important to note that some universities waive this requirement if your undergraduate education was in English or if you can provide valid proof of your English proficiency. However, one of the universities I applied to provided me a conditional offer that required IELTS, so I proceeded with the exam.

I used the preparation book provided after registering for the IELTS and dedicated a few hours each day to study and take practice tests from that book. While the test isn’t extremely difficult, it does require focused preparation. In the end, I scored a 7.5 band, which met the requirement comfortably.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship?

Preparing for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship or any similar opportunity is not as difficult as it might seem, as long as you have all your essential documents ready. This includes your passport, academic transcripts, degree certificates, and any other supporting material. The most important first step is to carefully read every detail on the official scholarship website. Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and selection themes is key.

One piece of advice I’d give to future applicants: don’t rush. Take your time with the application. Reflect deeply on each question. Think about your life experiences and identify the most powerful and honest examples that highlight your leadership potential, networking abilities, and commitment to change. The questions may seem straightforward, but that doesn’t mean you should take them lightly or overcomplicate them. Be honest, be rational, and above all, be authentic. The selectors are experts they can easily recognize when someone is exaggerating or being insincere.

Before writing any answer in my application, I would spend a lot of time thinking, questioning myself, and articulating my thoughts. I asked myself: Why this course? Why this university? Why this country? Having a clear vision and a strong personal argument helped me craft compelling answers that aligned with the goals of the scholarship and the values of the university.

Remember, these scholarships aren’t just looking for good students, they are searching for future global leaders. Leaders with clarity, purpose, and the ability to make a real impact in their communities and beyond. If your application reflects that clearly and honestly, it will stand out.

The process is long, and at times, emotionally demanding. Staying calm, patient, and composed is crucial. When I applied for the second time in 2023, I approached it with a different mindset. I saw it as an enriching learning experience rather than something to stress over. I focused on giving my best, without being overly attached to the outcome and that made all the difference.

How was Your Experience at the University of Sussex?

It’s been a truly beautiful and enriching experience so far. Studying outside my home country, alongside people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, has given me a whole new perspective on the world. This exposure has not only broadened my understanding of different ways of thinking but has also challenged me to grow, push my limits, and strive to become the best version of myself.

How Do You Rate the University of Sussex Academically and Why?

I must say, it’s 10 out of 10 experiences. Studying here has helped me understand exactly why this institution is ranked number one in the world for development studies. The learning environment is incredible. Our lectures are delivered by highly knowledgeable professors who are not just academics but also active development practitioners. They bring real-world experience into the classroom, sharing insights from the field that make each session deeply relevant and inspiring. It’s truly remarkable to learn from people who are directly shaping development work on the ground.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe what truly worked in my favor was the authenticity and honesty with which I presented my story, along with the rich lived experiences that demonstrated my leadership and networking abilities. I didn’t try to fabricate anything I simply shared who I am and what I’ve overcome. I think what also made a difference was how clearly, I articulated my vision and conveyed why I was the right fit not just for the scholarship, but for the course and university as well. I focused on showing how, with this opportunity, I could thrive academically and contribute meaningfully to the university community, while also using the experience to bring about transformational change in the world I come from.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Reflecting and reassessing my application helped me identify what might not have worked and what possibly didn’t leave a strong impression on the selection panel.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Be patient and calm and never lose hope. Believe in yourself and your hard work, nothing is impossible, and hard work always, always pays off.