The School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London is proud to announce the SOAS Master’s Scholarships for the academic year 2025/2026. These prestigious scholarships are designed to recognize and support academically outstanding students pursuing a full-time taught Master’s degree at SOAS.
SOAS University of London, founded in 1916, is a prestigious institution known for its focus on the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. It offers a unique blend of interdisciplinary education in areas such as languages, politics, economics, and law. SOAS has built a reputation for its diverse and global community, attracting students and scholars from all over the world, and continues to play a significant role in shaping global understanding of these regions.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | SOAS Master’s Scholarships (Home) |
| University | SOAS University of London |
| Scholarship Amount | £5,000 (split over two years for two-year programs) |
| Number of Awards | Four |
| Duration | One year (or split across two years for eligible programs) |
| Eligible Courses | Any full-time, on-campus taught master’s degree |
| Part-time Eligibility | Not eligible |
| Deadline | 21 March 2025 |
| Notification of Results | By the end of May 2025 |
Background
The SOAS Master’s Scholarships are prestigious awards designed to support academically outstanding students pursuing a postgraduate degree at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. SOAS is renowned for its focus on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, and its Master’s programmes attract students from diverse backgrounds who seek to make a global impact.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the SOAS Master’s Scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Fee Status: Must be classified as a Home fee status applicant.
- New Admissions Only: Only candidates applying for a master’s program starting in 2025/2026 are eligible.
- Academic Requirements:
- Must hold or expect to achieve a First-Class Honours degree from a UK university or an international equivalent.
- Applicants with a 2:1 degree may apply but will not be prioritized.
- International degree holders must provide references and transcripts to demonstrate they rank among the top students in their institution.
- Admission Offer: Applicants must have applied to SOAS but do not need to have received an offer by the scholarship deadline. However, they must secure an unconditional offer by the time the scholarship panel reviews applications.
- English Language Requirement: Applicants must meet the English language condition of their SOAS admission offer (if applicable). If an English test is required, applicants should arrange it early to meet the requirement promptly.
- Pre-sessional Courses: The scholarship does not cover funding for pre-sessional courses.
Benefits
- Covers £5,000 towards tuition fees.
- For two-year programs, the award is split into £2,500 per year.
- The scholarship is only valid for the first year of study for one-year programs.
- Awardees are selected based on academic merit, work experience, and personal statement.
Application Process
Step 1: Apply for a Master’s Program
- Prospective students must first apply for a taught master’s degree at SOAS via the Taught Masters applications portal.
- It is advisable to apply early, as application processing can take up to six weeks in peak periods.
Step 2: Apply for the Scholarship
- Once the master’s application is submitted, applicants must complete the online scholarship application form.
- The deadline to apply is 21 March 2025, at 12:00 PM (UK local time).
- Only complete applications will be considered. Late or incomplete submissions will be rejected.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 21 March 2025.
Conclusion
The SOAS Master’s Scholarships provide a valuable opportunity for high-achieving students to gain financial assistance while pursuing postgraduate studies at one of the world’s leading institutions for global studies. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, work experience, and personal aspirations, this scholarship helps scholars make meaningful contributions to their respective fields.