SOAS University of London Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarships

The SOAS University of London is proud to announce the Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarships for the academic year 2026/2027. These scholarships are supported by the Shapoorji Pallonji endowment for Zoroastrian Studies and are designed to assist outstanding students pursuing eligible taught master’s programmes related to Zoroastrian studies and associated academic fields.

SOAS University of London was founded in 1916 as the School of Oriental Studies to promote the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. It became part of the University of London and later expanded its academic focus, changing its name to the School of Oriental and African Studies. Over the years, SOAS has developed into a leading global institution known for teaching and research in languages, cultures, politics, law, and economics related to these regions.

Table of Briefs

Background

The Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarships were established through the generous endowment of the Shapoorji Pallonji Group, a globally recognized Indian business conglomerate known for supporting education, culture, and heritage initiatives. The scholarship is administered by the SOAS University of London through the SOAS Shapoorji Pallonji Institute of Zoroastrian Studies, which is dedicated to advancing academic research and teaching on Zoroastrian history, culture, and religion.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements to qualify:

1. Fee Status

   • Open to both Home and Overseas students.

2. Academic Excellence

   • Applicants should hold or expect to receive a First-Class Honours degree from a UK university or international equivalent.

   • Candidates with a 2:1 degree may apply but may not receive priority.

3. Programme Application

   • Applicants must have submitted an application to SOAS for one of the eligible master’s programmes.

4. Offer Requirement

   • An unconditional offer of admission must be obtained before the scholarship selection panel meets.

5. English Language Requirement

   • Candidates must satisfy SOAS English language requirements, if applicable.

6. Academic Coursework Requirement
   Scholarship recipients must complete:

   • A 60-credit dissertation on Zoroastrianism

   • The 30-credit module: Zoroastrianism, Historical and Contemporary Perspectives

   • Optional additional modules such as Avestan language studies.

Benefits

The Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarships provide financial support calibrated according to academic merit and available funds.

Key details include:

• Financial contribution toward tuition fees and living expenses

• Available for one year for full-time master’s programmes

• Available for two years for part-time study

• Designed to encourage interdisciplinary approaches to Zoroastrian studies

The scholarship does not cover funding for pre-sessional English courses.

Application Process

Students must complete two separate steps to apply for the scholarship.

Step 1: Apply for a Master’s Programme

First, submit an application to one of the eligible SOAS master’s degree programmes through the university’s admissions system.

Step 2: Apply for the Scholarship

After submitting your programme application:

1. Log in to the SOAS admissions portal

2. Locate the Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarships option

3. Complete and submit the scholarship application form before the deadline.

Only applicants who have applied for an eligible programme will receive login credentials for the scholarship application portal.

Important Dates

Application Deadline: 24 April 2026.

Conclusion

The Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarships at SOAS provide an excellent opportunity for students passionate about Zoroastrian studies and related disciplines. With strong academic preparation, a compelling research focus, and an early application, students can significantly improve their chances of securing this valuable financial support for postgraduate study in London.

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