For many talented students living in conflict-affected communities, access to quality postgraduate education remains one of the biggest barriers to career advancement and community transformation. The Windle Trust International Postgraduate Scholarship Programme 2026 is creating a life-changing opportunity for refugees and conflict-affected individuals residing in Kenya and Uganda to pursue fully funded Master’s degree studies in the United Kingdom.
This prestigious scholarship programme, funded primarily through the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission Master’s and Shared Scholarships schemes, is designed to empower future leaders, professionals, educators, researchers, and changemakers who are committed to driving development in their countries and communities.
Applications are officially open from 15 May to 12 June 2026.
About the Windle Trust International Postgraduate Scholarship Programme
Windle Trust International (WTI) serves as a nominating partner for the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission (CSC). Through this partnership, eligible candidates receive extensive support throughout the scholarship and university application process.
Applicants who successfully pass the WTI selection process will:
- Receive professional guidance on applying to UK universities
- Obtain support in preparing Commonwealth Scholarship Commission applications
- Be considered for nomination by Windle Trust International to the CSC
- Gain access to tailored scholarship application guidance and support materials
The programme aims to support individuals whose education and career opportunities have been disrupted by conflict and displacement while helping them gain advanced knowledge that contributes to sustainable development in their communities.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a fully funded Master’s scholarship package that includes:
Full Tuition Fees
The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition at participating UK universities.
Monthly Maintenance Stipend
Selected scholars will receive financial support to cover living expenses while studying in the United Kingdom.
Relocation Costs
The programme provides relocation assistance to help scholars transition smoothly to the UK for their studies.
University Application Support
WTI provides guidance and assistance throughout the university application process.
Commonwealth Scholarship Commission Application Support
Applicants receive tailored support for completing the CSC scholarship application successfully.
Access to Exclusive Scholarship Guidance Materials
Shortlisted candidates gain access to:
- Question-by-question guidance
- Scholarship application examples
- General scholarship writing tips
- The complete Windle-CSC Application Guide
Eligible Fields of Study
One of the strongest features of this scholarship programme is its flexibility. All subject areas are eligible; however, priority is often given to courses that contribute directly to national and community development.
Priority fields include:
- Education
- Social Work
- Development Studies
- Public Health
- Nutrition
- Crop Science
- Animal Science
- Gender Studies
- Renewable Energy
- Climate Change
- Development-related Law
- Agroforestry and Food Security
- English Language Education
- Computer Science
- Engineering
These areas are particularly encouraged because of their potential impact on economic growth, sustainability, healthcare improvement, food security, technological advancement, and social development.
Where Can Scholars Study?
Applicants may apply to universities in the United Kingdom that participate in the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission schemes.
WTI strongly encourages applicants to target universities that do not charge application fees. While Windle Trust International has negotiated fee waivers with some universities, fee waivers are not available universally.
Importantly:
- WTI does not pay university application fees
- Applicants should confirm fee waiver availability before applying
- Enquiries regarding fee waivers can be sent to postgraduate@windle.org.uk
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Windle Trust International Postgraduate Scholarship Programme 2026, applicants must meet all eligibility criteria without exception.
Applicants must:
- Have refugee status OR reside in specific conflict-affected areas in Kenya or Uganda
- Demonstrate excellent English language proficiency
- Hold a minimum academic qualification equivalent to a British Upper Second-Class (2:1) undergraduate degree
- Possess at least two years of relevant professional or volunteer experience
Applicants are advised to read the complete Eligibility Guidance Document carefully before submitting an application because eligibility requirements are strictly enforced.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit applications through the Windle Trust International online application portal.
Application Timeline
- Opening Date: 15 May 2026
- Deadline: 12 June 2026
Late applications may not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to begin preparing early.
Selection Process
The selection process involves multiple stages designed to identify highly motivated and qualified candidates.
Step 1: Online Application
Applicants submit their applications through the WTI online portal.
Step 2: Shortlisting
Eligible candidates are shortlisted based on academic merit, experience, leadership potential, and alignment with development goals.
Step 3: Interview
Shortlisted applicants are invited for interviews either:
- Online, or
- In their country of residence
Step 4: Scholarship and University Application Support
Candidates who pass the interview stage receive:
- Tailored CSC application support
- UK university application assistance
- Guidance materials and mentoring
Step 5: Final Scholarship Decision
Final scholarship awards are determined by the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission.
Commitment to Inclusion and Equal Opportunity
Windle Trust International promotes equal opportunity and non-discrimination throughout the selection process.
The organization strongly encourages applications from:
- Women
- Refugees
- Minority groups
- Persons living with disabilities
- Individuals affected by conflict
This inclusive approach ensures that deserving candidates from vulnerable and underrepresented backgrounds have access to quality higher education opportunities.
Why This Scholarship Matters
The Windle Trust International Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is more than a scholarship. It is an investment in future leaders who can contribute meaningfully to rebuilding communities affected by conflict and displacement.
By supporting postgraduate education in critical development sectors, the programme empowers scholars to:
- Improve healthcare systems
- Strengthen educational institutions
- Advance climate resilience
- Promote sustainable agriculture
- Enhance technological innovation
- Advocate for social justice and inclusion
Graduates are expected to apply their knowledge and skills toward solving pressing challenges in their communities and countries.
Important Notes for Applicants
Before applying, candidates should keep the following in mind:
- WTI never charges fees for scholarship applications
- Eligibility requirements are applied strictly
- University application fees are not covered by WTI
- Applicants should prepare all documents early
- Strong academic and professional records improve competitiveness
For application guidance and enquiries, applicants may contact:
- Email: postgraduate@windle.org.uk
Final Thoughts
The Windle Trust International Postgraduate Scholarship Programme 2026 represents a remarkable opportunity for conflict-affected individuals in Kenya and Uganda to pursue fully funded Master’s studies in the United Kingdom.
Beyond financial support, the programme provides mentorship, application guidance, and academic opportunities that can transform careers and communities. For refugees and conflict-affected individuals seeking to become leaders in development, education, healthcare, technology, agriculture, and sustainability, this scholarship could be the gateway to a brighter future.
Applicants are encouraged to prepare thoroughly and submit their applications before the 12 June 2026 deadline.
For more information about this opportunity, visit here.
Discover more Global Scholarship Opportunities on OFY here.
