University of Leeds Ferguson Scholarship 2026 for International Students — Fully Funded Opportunity

Studying abroad as an international student can be one of the most transformative experiences of your life, but the rising costs often stand in the way of that dream.

Enter the University of Leeds Ferguson Scholarship 2026: a fully funded opportunity at one of the UK’s most respected universities, designed to empower talented students from developing countries to pursue a one-year Master’s degree with full support. This scholarship is not just financial aid; it’s a potential launchpad to greater career growth and global impact.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through what the scholarship offers, who can apply, how to apply, and expert tips to help you stand out in a competitive field.

What Is the Ferguson Scholarship 2026 for International Students?

The Allan and Nesta Ferguson Scholarship at the University of Leeds is a fully funded Master’s scholarship for international students from developing countries. It supports one-year taught Master’s programs linked to economic, social, or technological development, excluding the Leeds MBA.

This scholarship is offered through the University’s partnerships with charitable trusts. It’s a prestigious and life-changing financial award for students who demonstrate academic excellence and genuine financial need.

👉 Learn more about the official list of scholarships for international students at Leeds here:
🔗 University of Leeds Scholarships for International Students:  https://www.leeds.ac.uk/masters-additional-funding-support/doc/scholarships-charities-trusts

Why the Ferguson Scholarship Matters for Every International Student

For international students, the financial burden of tuition fees, living expenses, and travel can be overwhelming. The Ferguson Scholarship removes these barriers by offering a fully funded support package that allows students to focus on learning, networking, and skill development; without worrying about finances.

More importantly, it’s designed to help students return home and contribute meaningfully to their communities after graduation, aligning education with global development goals.

Leeds Ferguson Scholarship 2026 Benefits for International Students

Here’s a clear breakdown of what the scholarship provides:

This package ensures you not only study in the UK, but also live comfortably and focus entirely on your academic goals.

Eligibility Requirements for an International Student

To qualify for the Ferguson Scholarship 2026, you must meet the following criteria:

Nationality & Residency

• Be a citizen and permanent resident of a developing country (as defined by the World Bank).
• You must not have studied for more than one year in a developed country.

Academic Requirements

• Hold, or be expected to hold by September 2026, a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a UK Upper Second Class Honours or higher.
• Apply to a one-year, full-time taught Master’s programme at the University of Leeds in eligible fields.

Financial Need

• You must demonstrate that you cannot afford to self-fund your studies in the UK.
• The scholarship is intended to support students with genuine financial need.

English Proficiency

• If your first language isn’t English, you must meet the University’s English language requirements by the application deadline.

Who Can Apply? (Fields of Study)

The Ferguson Scholarship is open to international students applying for eligible Master’s programmes with a focus on economic, social, or technological development. Some of the faculties eligible include:

• Law
• Media and Communication
• Earth and Environment
• Biological Sciences
• Politics and International Studies
• Transport Studies
• Business and Management (excluding Leeds MBA)
• Philosophy and History of Science
  (Note: Eligible programmes vary annually; always check the official listing.)

Application Timeline for International Students — Key Dates to Know

Understanding the timeline is essential for a successful application:

• Application Deadline: 2 February 2026, 5:00 pm GMT (final scholarship submission)
• Programme Start: September 2026 (academic year commencement)
• Result Notification: Typically within a few weeks after the deadline — exact timing varies by year.

Missing these deadlines could mean waiting another year, so plan early.

How an International Student Can Apply for the Ferguson Scholarship

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying:

Step 1: Apply for a Master’s Programme

You must first apply to an eligible Master’s programme at the University of Leeds and receive a Student Application Number. This number is essential — you cannot submit a scholarship application without it.

Step 2: Complete the Scholarship Application

Once you have your Student Application Number:

1. Visit the official scholarship page.
2. Complete the Allan and Nesta Ferguson Scholarship online form.
3. Upload all required documents (academic transcripts, personal statement, proof of financial need, etc.).
4. Submit before the deadline.

👉 Apply for eligible scholarships here:
🔗 Allan and Nesta Ferguson Scholarships at University of Leeds — https://www.leeds.ac.uk/masters-additional-funding-support/doc/scholarships-charities-trusts

Top Tips for Every International Student Applying for the Ferguson Scholarship

Success doesn’t happen by chance — it comes from smart preparation. Here are practical tips to help your application stand out:

1. Start Early

Give yourself plenty of time to gather transcripts, English test results, and reference letters.

2. Tailor Your Personal Statement

Explain clearly:

• Why you chose your programme
• How it aligns with your career goals
• How the scholarship will help you make a positive impact back home

3. Demonstrate Financial Need

Provide evidence (a letter, financial statement, or similar) that clearly shows you cannot self-fund. This is a core requirement.

4. Follow All Requirements Precisely

Missing even one document could result in disqualification. Double-check everything!

Ferguson Scholarship vs Other University of Leeds Scholarships

Leeds offers several options for international students. Here’s how Ferguson compares with some other awards:

The Ferguson Scholarship stands out for its full funding package, especially for students who demonstrate financial need.

Why You Should Apply

If you’re an international student with strong academic credentials, financial need, and a passion to make a difference, the University of Leeds Ferguson Scholarship 2026 could be your gateway to a globally-recognized degree in the UK.

Not only does it provide full financial support — it connects you with a vibrant international community and equips you with skills to contribute meaningfully to your home country after graduation.