SOAS Sustainable Development Goal Scholarship in the UK for 2026

The SOAS University of London is offering a significant opportunity for international students with its Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Scholarship for the 2026 academic year. This fully funded scholarship aims to support postgraduate students who are committed to addressing global challenges aligned with the United Nations’ 17 SDGs. It provides a chance to pursue a Master’s degree in the UK while contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future.

This scholarship is designed for individuals who demonstrate not only academic excellence but also a strong dedication to creating sustainable solutions. It encourages critical thinking, responsible action, and bold leadership in tackling environmental and social issues. The program seeks to foster a new generation of leaders equipped to redefine the relationship between humanity and the planet.

Understanding the SOAS Sustainable Development Goal Scholarship

The SOAS Sustainable Development Goal Scholarship is a prestigious award that covers full tuition fees and provides a substantial maintenance stipend. This financial support is intended to ease the burden on students, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic pursuits and research related to sustainable development. The scholarship is open to students from all countries, making it a globally accessible opportunity.

The scholarship specifically supports students enrolled in any taught Master’s course at SOAS that has content directly linked to the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. This broad scope ensures that a wide range of disciplines can contribute to the scholarship’s objectives, from environmental science and development studies to economics, law, and social sciences. The core idea is to foster interdisciplinary approaches to sustainability.

Scholarship Details and Benefits

For the 2026/27 academic year, there are four SOAS Sustainable Development Goal Scholarships available. Each scholarship offers comprehensive financial support, including full tuition fees. Additionally, recipients will receive a maintenance stipend of at least £15,000 per year. This stipend is designed to cover living expenses, accommodation, and other essential costs associated with studying in London.

The scholarship is particularly attractive as it does not require an IELTS test for eligibility, potentially making it more accessible for international students who may face challenges with standardized English language proficiency tests. The deadline for applications is June 12, 2026, giving prospective candidates ample time to prepare their applications.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the SOAS Sustainable Development Goal Scholarship, candidates must meet specific criteria. The primary requirement is to have applied for a taught Master’s course at SOAS University of London that aligns with the SDGs. Applicants must submit their scholarship application through the university’s admissions portal.

Prospective students will need to have already applied for a course to gain access to the admissions portal and its associated login credentials. It is important for applicants to carefully review the eligibility criteria for the specific scholarship they are interested in. Any queries regarding eligibility or the application process should be directed to [email protected]. The university expects to complete the shortlisting and awarding process by July, with successful candidates being notified first.

Selection Criteria

The selection process for the SOAS Sustainable Development Goal Scholarship is rigorous and multifaceted. A dedicated selection panel will assess candidates based on their academic merit, reviewing details such as previous degree results, personal statements, and any other relevant information provided in their application. This ensures that only academically strong candidates are considered.

Beyond academic achievements, the panel will also evaluate how the applicant’s chosen field of study and their personal commitment align with the goals of sustainability. The assessment considers how the student’s proposed research or study plan demonstrates a dedication to creating sustainable solutions for a just and regenerative future. This includes evaluating their potential for critical thought, responsible action, and leadership in addressing global environmental and social challenges.

Application Process

The application for the SOAS Sustainable Development Goal Scholarship is integrated into the university’s admissions process. Interested candidates must first apply for a relevant Master’s course at SOAS. Once an application for a course is submitted, applicants can then access the admissions portal to apply for the scholarship.

The application must be submitted by 12 noon (UK local time) on June 12, 2026. It is crucial for applicants to ensure they have applied for a course before attempting to submit their scholarship application, as course application credentials are required. If a specific scholarship does not appear within the admissions portal, candidates should reconfirm their eligibility. For any questions, contacting [email protected] is recommended.

Key Dates and Deadlines

The application deadline for the SOAS Sustainable Development Goal Scholarship is June 12, 2026. This is a firm deadline, and late applications will not be considered. The university aims to complete the selection and notification process by July, ensuring that successful candidates are informed promptly so they can make necessary arrangements for their studies.

How to Apply

To apply for this scholarship, follow these steps:

1. Apply for a Master’s Course: First, submit an application for a taught Master’s program at SOAS University of London that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals.
2. Access the Admissions Portal: After applying for a course, you will receive credentials to access the SOAS admissions portal.
3. Submit Scholarship Application: Within the admissions portal, locate and complete the application for the SOAS Sustainable Development Goal Scholarship.
4. Meet the Deadline: Ensure your scholarship application is submitted by 12 noon (UK local time) on June 12, 2026.

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