Studying for a master’s degree in the United Kingdom can be a life-changing opportunity, but the cost of tuition and living expenses often becomes a major barrier for many talented students from developing countries.
To support outstanding international students, the University of Sheffield, in partnership with the Allan and Nesta Ferguson Charitable Trust, offers the highly competitive Ferguson Masters Scholarships. This fully funded award is designed to help students gain world-class education and return home equipped to create meaningful impact in their communities.
If you are planning to study in the UK in 2026, this scholarship could be your golden opportunity.
About the Ferguson Scholarship
The Allan and Nesta Ferguson Charitable Trust Masters Scholarships are prestigious postgraduate funding opportunities available at the University of Sheffield.
The scholarship is offered through the Sheffield Institute for International Development and supports students who demonstrate strong academic excellence and a commitment to development in their home countries.
Only a small number of students are selected each year, making it one of the most competitive and respected scholarship programmes at the university.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive significant financial support, including:
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Full tuition fee coverage for the entire master’s programme
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£12,500 maintenance stipend to help with living costs in the UK
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Opportunity to study at one of the UK’s leading research universities
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Access to global academic networks and professional development
This scholarship removes most of the financial burden, allowing students to focus fully on their studies.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the Ferguson Scholarship in 2026, applicants must meet several important criteria:
General Requirements
Applicants must:
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Be an overseas (international) fee-paying student
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Hold an offer to study an eligible master’s programme at the University of Sheffield
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Be starting their programme in September 2026
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Study full-time (part-time study is not covered)
Academic Qualifications
You must:
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Have an excellent academic background
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Not already hold a qualification equivalent to or higher than the degree you are applying for
Study Background
Applicants must also:
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Have never previously studied outside their home country
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Be self-funded (not receiving sponsorship from another organisation)
Eligible Countries
The scholarship is available only to students permanently living in selected developing countries. These include countries across Africa, Asia, and other regions such as:
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Nigeria
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Ghana
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Kenya
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Pakistan
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Bangladesh
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Uganda
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Vietnam
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India
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And many more
Eligible Courses
The Ferguson Scholarship applies to specific postgraduate taught programmes, mainly linked to international development and related fields.
Common eligible subject areas include:
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International Development
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Global Journalism
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International Relations
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Law and Development
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Public Policy
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Communication for Development
Applicants must ensure their chosen programme is included in the scholarship’s approved list before applying.
Key Dates and Deadlines (2026 Entry)
To be considered for the Ferguson Scholarship, applicants must follow the official timeline carefully:
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Offer deadline: Applicants must hold an academic offer by 8 May 2026
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Shortlisting notification: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by 15 May 2026
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Scholarship application deadline: Forms must be submitted by 1 June 2026 (1pm UK time)
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Final decision announced: Results will be shared by 5 July 2026
Late applications are not accepted, so early preparation is essential.
How the Selection Works
The scholarship is highly competitive. The selection panel considers:
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Academic excellence
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Commitment to development in your home country
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Leadership potential
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Relevant professional or volunteer experience
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Clear motivation for studying at Sheffield
Applicants who demonstrate strong future goals and a plan to contribute to national development stand a better chance of being selected.
Why You Should Apply
The Ferguson Scholarship at University of Sheffield is more than just funding. It is a pathway to:
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Receiving a globally respected UK master’s degree
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Building expertise in development-focused fields
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Joining an international community of scholars
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Returning home with skills to influence policy, education, governance, and social change
For many students, it represents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to access quality education without financial hardship.
Final Thoughts
If you are an ambitious student from a developing country with strong academic achievements and a desire to create impact, the Ferguson Masters Scholarship could help you achieve your postgraduate dreams in the UK.
Start early, apply for an eligible course, secure your offer, and prepare a strong scholarship application.
Copy and Paste the application link on your browser: https://sheffield.ac.uk/international/fees-and-funding/scholarships/postgraduate/ferguson
