The School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, in partnership with The Data Lab Academy and the Scottish Funding Council, is pleased to announce one fully funded scholarship for the MSc in Geographical Information Science for the academic year 2025-2026.
The University of Edinburgh, founded in 1582, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK. Located in Scotland’s capital city, it has a long tradition of excellence in teaching and research. The university played a key role during the Scottish Enlightenment and has produced many influential figures, including Charles Darwin, Alexander Graham Bell, and Sir Walter Scott. Today, it continues to be a leading global institution, attracting students and researchers from around the world.
Table of Briefs
| Key Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | DataLab/School of Geosciences Scholarships in GIS |
| Provider | School of Geosciences, The Data Lab Academy, Scottish Funding Council |
| Course Funded | MSc in Geographical Information Science (GIS) |
| University | University of Edinburgh |
| Scholarship Value | Fully funded tuition fees |
| Additional Benefits | Exclusive training & networking via Data Lab events |
| Eligibility | Scottish resident students only |
| Application Deadline | 05 August 2025 |
| Application Method | Email personal statement to Programme Director |
| Contact Email | zhiqiang.feng@ed.ac.uk |
Background
The DataLab/School of Geosciences Scholarships were created to support and develop Scotland’s future leaders in the growing field of spatial data science. Sponsored by the Scottish Funding Council and delivered in partnership with the Data Lab Academy, this scholarship offers a full tuition fee waiver for one talented student pursuing the MSc in GIS at the University of Edinburgh in the 2025–26 academic year.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Be ordinarily resident in Scotland for at least 3 years (not including full-time education).
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Have the right to live and work in the UK.
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Be starting the MSc in Geographical Information Science in 2025–26 (not already enrolled).
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Must be applying for the full-time course (part-time applicants are ineligible).
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Hold a UK 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent, OR a 2.2 degree with at least 3 years of professional GIS experience.
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Must select at least two of the following modules:
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Data Mining & Exploration
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Advanced Spatial Database Methods
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Object-Oriented Software Engineering (spatial algorithms)
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Note: EU students without pre-settlement status are not eligible.
Benefits
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Full tuition fees for the MSc in GIS at the University of Edinburgh.
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No deposit fee: Deposit is waived or refunded.
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Access to specialised training and networking opportunities through The Data Lab.
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Direct engagement with Data Lab’s Scotland-wide scholar community.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
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Secure an offer: You must hold a conditional or unconditional offer for the MSc GIS programme.
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Prepare a one-page Personal Statement:
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Explain your interest in spatial data science.
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Describe how the scholarship supports your career goals.
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Email your statement to the Programme Director:
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Dr Zhiqiang Feng
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Email: zhiqiang.feng@ed.ac.uk
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Deadline: Submit by 23:59 BST on 05 August 2025.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 05 August 2025.
Conclusion
The DataLab/School of Geosciences Scholarship is more than just financial support — it’s a gateway into Scotland’s vibrant data science community. If you’re passionate about GIS and eager to contribute to spatial data innovation, this opportunity could shape your future career in ways you never imagined. Don’t miss your chance to apply!