Allan and Nesta Ferguson Scholarships at SOAS University of London 2026

Job Description

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The School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, invites qualified African students to apply for the 2026 Allan and Nesta Ferguson Scholarships.

This prestigious postgraduate scholarship provides £32,500 to support African students pursuing eligible taught Master’s degree programs at SOAS. The award is primarily applied toward tuition fees, with any remaining balance paid as a living stipend.

Scholarship Summary

Host Institution

SOAS University of London

Study Destination

United Kingdom

Scholarship Category

Postgraduate Scholarships
Master’s Scholarships

Eligible Countries

All African countries

Scholarship Value

Full scholarship worth £32,500

Application Deadline

6 February 2026

Scholarship Details

The Allan and Nesta Ferguson Scholarship is awarded annually to outstanding African nationals and residents admitted to taught Master’s programs at SOAS, University of London.

For the 2026/2027 academic session, two scholarships will be awarded based strictly on academic merit. Successful applicants must enroll in the 2026/27 academic year, as the scholarship cannot be deferred.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

• Be a resident of a low-income or lower-middle-income country as defined by the World Bank
• Preferably come from a low-income household
• Hold an undergraduate degree with first-class honors
• Submit an application to SOAS before the scholarship deadline
• Obtain an offer of admission to SOAS before the scholarship panel meets
• Meet the English language requirements for the chosen SOAS program as soon as possible

Please note that the scholarship does not cover pre-sessional English courses.

Scholarship Value and Duration

The scholarship provides a total award of £32,500, which includes:

• Tuition fee coverage
• Living stipend if tuition fees are lower than the total award value

The scholarship is awarded solely on academic excellence.

Candidate Assessment Criteria

Applications are reviewed by an Advisory Panel of three academic members. Selection is based on:

• Academic performance and official transcripts
• References from previous academic institutions
• Personal statement and other relevant supporting documents

How to Apply

Interested candidates should follow the steps below:

• Submit the scholarship application online by 23:59 (UK time) on 6 February 2026
• Apply separately for a taught Master’s program at SOAS through the official program portal
• Apply for admission at least six weeks before the scholarship deadline to ensure an offer is available if shortlisted