Commonwealth Shared Scholar, Fatima Khan from Pakistan, Shares Her Journey of Pursuing an MSc in Education (Policy and International Development) at the University of Bristol, United Kingdom

My name is Fatima Khan, and I am an education policy specialist from Pakistan. I have spent almost a decade working at the intersection of school curriculum, social justice, and education reform, particularly in low-income and public-sector schooling contexts. I pursued my MSc in Education (Policy and International Development) at the University of Bristol (UK) to deepen my understanding of how education systems can either reproduce or dismantle inequality. My academic and professional work is driven by one core question: How can curriculum and pedagogy be redesigned to build more inclusive, peaceful, and equitable societies?

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship to study at the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom for my MSc in Education (Policy and International Development). This fully funded scholarship covered my tuition, living expenses, travel, and academic costs, allowing me to focus entirely on research and professional development.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Besides Bristol, I applied to UCL, Glasgow, King's College, and Nottingham. I was accepted everywhere and was on the reserve list for the Commonwealth Shared at both UCL and Glasgow. However, Bristol was always my first choice because the program aligned most with my goals and research.

Educational Background

I completed my MSc in Education (Policy and International Development) at the

University of Bristol, graduating with a Distinction

. My master’s thesis was titled:

“A History of Violence: The Role of Curriculum in Preaching Intolerance and

Exclusion Against Minorities in Pakistan.”

This research examined how textbooks, narratives, and state-approved curricula shape identity, belonging, and conflict in post-colonial societies.

Before my master’s degree, I built a strong academic and professional foundation through years of teaching Sociology and World History, curriculum design, and national-level education research. My prior work on Pakistan’s Single National Curriculum and as Social Studies Coordinator directly prepared me to engage with international education policy, comparative education systems, and curriculum reform.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Bristol?

I shortlisted universities that had strong expertise in education policy, international development, and curriculum studies. I carefully reviewed faculty research, program structures, and dissertation options. The University of Bristol stood out because of its global education focus, strong School of Education, and commitment to social justice and decolonisation, which aligned closely with my professional background.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests?

The University of Bristol accepted my academic background and professional experience for admission. I took the IELTS Academic and scored an 8.5 out of 9. That was the only test I took for the scholarship.

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

I treated the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship as a leadership and impact-based competition, not just an academic one. I focused on:

• Clearly linking my past work in Pakistan’s school system with my future goals in education reform
• Demonstrating how my degree would strengthen my ability to influence curriculum and policy
• Showing measurable community and national impact, especially through my work on the Single National Curriculum and public-sector school reform

How Was Your Experience at the University of Bristol?

My experience at the University of Bristol was academically rigorous and intellectually transformative. I had the opportunity to engage with scholars from around the world and work on issues such as education inequality, post-colonial curriculum reform, and international development policy. I was also actively involved in university-wide initiatives around decolonising education and climate justice

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

The University of Bristol’s School of Education is exceptionally strong in policy-oriented and critical education research. The faculty encourages students to engage deeply with real-world education systems, making the learning both theoretical and practical.

How Does the University of Bristol Support International Students?

There is strong academic and well-being support for international students through faculty advisors, well-being services, and international student networks. Services are available via the SU and the Global Lounge at BristolUni.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because I brought:

• Direct experience with national curriculum reform in Pakistan
• Teaching experience across O- and A-levels
• A clear policy-to-practice pathway: how I would use this degree to transform education back home
• A strong social justice and minority-rights focus, backed by real work in schools and government-linked projects

What Advice Would You Give Future Applicants?

Do not frame your application around being “deserving.” Instead, frame it around impact. Scholarships like the Commonwealth are looking for people who will change systems, not just benefit personally. Be specific about:

• What problems exist in your country
• How your degree will help solve them
• Why are you positioned to lead that change