Begin your postgraduate journey in the United Kingdom with exciting news — applications for the Allan & Nesta Ferguson Masters Scholarships 2026–2027 are now open! This article provides a detailed overview of the scholarship program, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process.
The Allan & Nesta Ferguson Charitable Trust Masters Scholarships are fully funded awards designed to support talented international students pursuing postgraduate studies at the University of Sheffield. Each selected scholar will receive a full tuition fee waiver, free University accommodation, and a maintenance stipend of £12,500 to support living expenses throughout the academic year.
The University of Sheffield demonstrates a strong dedication to International Development. A key part of its institutional strategy focuses on “enhancing global partnerships and contributing to positive change across communities worldwide.”
In alignment with this mission, the University, in partnership with the Allan & Nesta Ferguson Charitable Trust and the Sheffield Institute for International Development (SIID), offers up to 10 scholarships over three years. These awards are open to students from developing countries applying to specific postgraduate programs linked to international development studies.
Scholarship Overview
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Institution: University of Sheffield
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Program Duration: One year
- Eligible Programs:
- MA International Development
- MSc Environmental Change and International Development
- MPH International Development (Masters in Public Health)
- LLM International Law and Global Justice (selected pathway of the Sheffield LLM)
- MA International Political Economy
- MA Global Journalism
- MA International Public and Political Communication
- Deadline: Refer to the University of Sheffield’s official website for updated dates here
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Allan & Nesta Ferguson Masters Scholarship will receive the following benefits:
- Full tuition fee waiver for the selected master’s program
- £12,500 living allowance for maintenance costs
- Free University accommodation for the duration of the study program
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:
- Must demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5)
- Must be a citizen or permanent resident of one of the eligible developing countries listed on the official website
- Must hold an offer of admission for one of the approved master’s programs at the University of Sheffield by the stated deadline
- Must be classified as an overseas student for tuition fee purposes
- Must be self-funded, i.e., not sponsored by a government, company, or other funding body
- Must study full-time and begin the program in September 2026 (deferrals are not permitted)
- Must secure a valid student visa prior to commencing studies
- The scholarship cannot be combined with other University or external awards
How to Apply
Follow the steps below to apply for the Allan & Nesta Ferguson Masters Scholarship:
- Submit a Postgraduate Application
- Apply through the University of Sheffield’s Postgraduate Online Application Form.
- Prepare Supporting Documents
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
- Proof of previous degree(s)
- Two academic references
- Evidence of English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)
- Automatic Consideration
- If you are a citizen or resident of an eligible country and receive an offer for one of the approved programs, you will automatically be considered for the scholarship — no separate scholarship application is needed.
Official Website
For detailed information about eligibility, application deadlines, and program requirements, visit the official University of Sheffield webpage:
