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. Our Equity and Merit Scholarships aim to empower young professionals in the Global South to deliver solutions to meet these interlinked goals.

Equity and Merit Scholarships are 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. 

We offer two types of scholarship:  

  • Full-time, on-campus master’s (one-year duration).
  • Part-time, distance learning master’s (three to five years duration).

There are 30 scholarships (20 for full-time study and ten for online study) available for 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 who will be studying in Manchester, the award includes return international airfares, living expenses and visas.

Application timeline for 2027/28

Early October to 6 December 2026

 Academic application window

18 January to 7 February 2027

 Scholarship application window

February to April 2027

 Eligibility checks
May to June 2027

Review period
July 2027

Results announced
September 2027

Start of the academic year

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Equity and Merit programme

Find out more about our commitment to this programme and hear from our inspiring alumni.

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