The British Chamber of Commerce (BCC), in partnership with the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the BCC Planning Scholarship for the academic year 2025/2026. This prestigious scholarship will cover 100% of the tuition fees for one eligible student enrolling in the MSc Spatial Planning and Real Estate Development programme.
Heriot-Watt University was established in 1821 in Edinburgh, Scotland, originally as the world’s first mechanics’ institute to provide practical education for working people. Named after Scottish inventor James Watt and philanthropist George Heriot, the university has grown into a globally recognized institution with campuses in Scotland, Dubai, and Malaysia. Known for its strong focus on science, engineering, business, and design, Heriot-Watt is celebrated for its industry connections, research excellence, and commitment to preparing students for real-world careers.
Table of Briefs
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) Planning Scholarship |
| Award Value | 100% of Tuition Fee |
| Eligibility | UK Fee Status students applying for MSc Spatial Planning and Real Estate Development |
| Course Start Date | September 2025 |
| Mode of Study | Full-time |
| Number of Awards | 1 |
| Campus | United Kingdom |
| Administered by | British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) and Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) |
| School | School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society |
| Application Deadline | 30 May 2025 |
| Additional Benefits | Mentoring, work experience, guaranteed role in local authority |
Background
The BCC Planning Scholarship is a unique initiative designed to support future leaders in planning and development. This scholarship, offered in collaboration with the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), aims to break down financial barriers for talented individuals who may not have otherwise been able to consider a career in spatial planning.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the BCC Planning Scholarship, you must:
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Have UK Fee Status.
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Be applying for the MSc Spatial Planning and Real Estate Development programme starting in September 2025.
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Submit your scholarship application by 30 May 2025.
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You do not need to hold an offer yet, but you must have submitted your application for the MSc programme.
Benefits
This is a full tuition scholarship, meaning all your tuition fees for the MSc programme will be covered in full.
Additional benefits include:
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Structured mentoring from experienced professionals in the planning field.
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Work experience opportunities during your study.
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A guaranteed planning role within a local authority for a minimum of two years after graduation.
This isn’t just financial aid—it’s a career launchpad.
Application Process
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Apply for the MSc Spatial Planning and Real Estate Development programme through the university’s standard application portal.
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Once you’ve submitted your course application, complete the scholarship application form via the dedicated BCC Planning Scholarship page.
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Submit your completed scholarship application by 30 May 2025.
Note: You do not need to have received an offer yet—only to have applied for the programme.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 30 May 2025.
Conclusion
The BCC Planning Scholarship is more than financial support—it’s a full-circle opportunity that blends education, mentorship, and meaningful employment. For one dedicated student, it could be the first step into a lifelong career shaping the future of our cities and communities.