Equity and Merit Scholarships for International Master’s Students
The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals set the direction toward a better, more sustainable future for all. The Equity and Merit Scholarships aim to empower young professionals in the Global South to deliver solutions to meet these interlinked goals.
These scholarships are designed for academically excellent students who have the potential to make a significant contribution to sustainable development in their home countries. The awards are intended for those who cannot afford to study in Manchester without a scholarship. We are committed to a policy of equal opportunity, and all applications are considered on their merit. We particularly encourage women to apply.
Scholarship Overview
We offer two types of scholarships:
- Full-time, on-campus master’s (one-year duration)
- Part-time, distance learning master’s (three to five years duration)
A total of 40 scholarships are available: 30 for full-time study and 10 for online study. These scholarships cover a range of courses in engineering, environment, health sciences, development, education, textiles, and law. The scheme is open to applicants from Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
The scholarships cover full tuition fees, and for students studying in Manchester, the award includes return international airfares, living expenses, and visas.
Eligibility Criteria
Our master’s scholarships are aimed at talented applicants, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. To apply, you will need:
- To be a resident citizen of Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, or Zimbabwe, and have not previously studied outside of Africa (training of six months or less does not count).
- At least two years of professional experience related to your chosen field of study (unpaid internships or voluntary work do not count).
- A bachelor’s degree with an overall excellent grade (typically in the top 10% of your class).
- A commitment to returning home and the potential to make a positive impact on the future of your country.
- A clear idea of how studying at Manchester will benefit your career and the wider community.
Available Courses
The scholarship is available for a variety of master’s courses across several disciplines, including:
- Engineering: Chemical, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and more.
- Environment: Climate Change, Environmental Governance, Pollution Control, etc.
- Health Sciences: Public Health, Audiology, Medical Microbiology, etc.
- Development: Global Development, International Development, etc.
- Education: Sustainable Environment, International Education, etc.
- Law: Corporate Governance, Intellectual Property Law, International Business Law, etc.
- Textiles: Fashion Marketing, Textile Technology, etc.
How to Apply
Applications for September 2025 entry will open on 1 August 2024 and close on 31 August 2024. You can view a sample application form on our website to help you prepare.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you will be invited to make an academic application for your chosen master’s course. Please do not apply for academic admission until you are directed to do so.
We will inform all applicants of the outcome of their application by June 2025.
Application Timeline:
- 1 to 31 August 2024: Scholarship application window
- September 2024: Eligibility checks
- 1 to 31 October 2024: Academic application window
- November 2024 to May 2025: Review period
- June 2025: Results announced
- September 2025: Start of the academic year
Apply today to take the next step toward making a significant impact in your community!
