The SOAS University of London is happy to announce the opening of applications for the Masters Scholarships for the academic year 2026/2027. These prestigious scholarships are awarded to recognise applicants with outstanding academic excellence and to support their postgraduate studies at SOAS. A total of 30 scholarships will be offered, each providing £7,000 towards tuition fees for eligible full-time, on-campus taught Master’s degree programmes.
SOAS University of London was founded in 1916 as the School of Oriental Studies to promote the study of Asia and Africa during a time of rapid global change. Later renamed the School of Oriental and African Studies, it became a world-leading centre dedicated to the languages, cultures, politics and economies of these regions. Over the years, SOAS has expanded its academic disciplines and built a strong reputation for research excellence, cultural understanding and social justice.
Table of Briefs
| Scholarship Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | SOAS Masters Scholarships |
| Scholarship Amount | £7,000 contribution to tuition fees |
| No. of Scholarships | 30 awards available |
| Duration | 1 year or split across 2 years if enrolled in a 2-year programme |
| Eligible Courses | Any full-time taught Masters on-campus |
| Eligibility | Home-fee status applicants starting in 2026/2027 |
| Deadline | 6 February 2026 |
Background
The SOAS Masters Scholarships aim to celebrate academic excellence and support students undertaking postgraduate study at SOAS. With 30 scholarships available each year, the award provides £7,000 towards tuition, helping high-achieving students pursue their academic goals. For 2-year programmes, the amount is divided equally across both years (£3,500 per year). These scholarships reinforce SOAS’s commitment to enabling talented students to progress into research, international careers, and leadership roles across the world.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, students must:
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Hold Home fee status.
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Be new master’s applicants starting in 2026/2027.
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Possess or expect to receive a First-class honours degree (UK) or equivalent international ranking.
Applicants with a 2:1 may apply but will not receive preference. -
Apply to a full-time on-campus taught Masters programme at SOAS.
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Hold an unconditional offer by the time the scholarship panel meets.
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Meet English language requirements early if applicable.
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Note: Part-time and pre-sessional courses are not eligible.
Benefits
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Total funding: £7,000 toward tuition fees
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Valid for 1 year only
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For 2-year masters: £3,500 per year across 2026/27 and 2027/28
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Award covers tuition fees only not accommodation or living costs.
Application Process
Step 1 — Apply for admission
Submit your application for a full-time taught Masters programme at SOAS.
Tip: Apply early to allow processing time 4–6 weeks during busy periods.
Step 2 — Apply for the scholarship
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Log in to the SOAS admissions portal credentials issued after course application.
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Complete the scholarship application form by 12 noon (UK time) on 6 February 2026.
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Only applicants meeting the basic eligibility criteria will see the scholarship listed on the portal.
Notification Timeline
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Shortlisting and final selection expected by end of June 2026.
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Successful candidates contacted first, followed by emails to unsuccessful applicants.
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If no suitable candidates are selected, the scholarship may reopen in April 2026.
Important Dates
Application Deadline:
Conclusion
The SOAS Masters Scholarships provide an excellent opportunity for academically high-performing students who aspire to pursue postgraduate study at one of the world’s most globally focused universities. If you are passionate about international issues, social justice, languages, and regional studies and have a strong academic record this scholarship is definitely worth applying for.