Understanding the Windle Trust International Postgraduate Scholarship Programme
For many talented students living in conflict-affected communities, pursuing higher education can be a significant challenge. The Windle Trust International Postgraduate Scholarship Programme offers a life-changing opportunity for individuals from Kenya and Uganda to undertake fully funded Master’s degrees in the United Kingdom. This scholarship is designed to empower future leaders and changemakers who are committed to developing their home countries and communities.
This program is a key initiative supported by the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission. It aims to provide advanced knowledge and skills to students whose educational paths have been disrupted by conflict. The application window for the 2026 program is open from May 15 to June 12, 2026.
About Windle Trust International and the Scholarship
Windle Trust International (WTI) acts as a nominating partner for the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission (CSC). This partnership means WTI provides extensive support to eligible candidates throughout the scholarship and university application process. Those who successfully navigate WTI’s selection process will receive professional guidance on applying to UK universities and preparing their CSC applications. WTI then considers them for nomination to the CSC.
The core goal of this program is to support individuals impacted by conflict and displacement. It helps them gain advanced education that can contribute to sustainable development in their communities.
What the Scholarship Covers
Successful applicants receive a comprehensive, fully funded Master’s scholarship package. This includes:
Full Tuition Fees
The scholarship covers all tuition costs at participating UK universities.
Monthly Living Stipend
Scholars receive financial support to cover their living expenses while studying in the UK.
Relocation Assistance
The program offers help with relocation costs to ease the transition to the United Kingdom.
University Application Support
WTI provides guidance and assistance throughout the process of applying to UK universities.
Commonwealth Scholarship Commission Application Support
Applicants receive specific help to complete their CSC scholarship applications successfully.
Access to Guidance Materials
Shortlisted candidates gain access to detailed application guidance, examples, and writing tips.
Eligible Fields of Study
A notable aspect of this scholarship is its broad range of eligible fields. While all subject areas are considered, priority is often given to courses that directly contribute to national and community development. Some encouraged 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 prioritized due to their potential to impact economic growth, sustainability, healthcare, food security, technology, and social progress.
Where Scholars Can Study
Applicants can apply to any university in the United Kingdom that participates in the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission schemes. WTI advises applicants to target universities that do not charge application fees, as WTI does not cover these costs. While WTI has negotiated fee waivers with some institutions, they are not universally available. Applicants should confirm fee waiver availability before applying.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Windle Trust International Postgraduate Scholarship Programme, applicants must meet all the following criteria:
- Residency and Status: Applicants must have refugee status or reside in specific conflict-affected areas within Kenya or Uganda.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrated excellent English language skills are required.
- Academic Qualification: A minimum academic qualification equivalent to a British Upper Second-Class (2:1) undergraduate degree is necessary.
- Professional Experience: Applicants need at least two years of relevant professional or volunteer experience.
It is important for applicants to carefully read the complete Eligibility Guidance Document, as these requirements are strictly enforced.
The Application and Selection Process
Interested candidates must submit their applications through the Windle Trust International online portal.
Application Timeline
- Opening Date: May 15, 2026
- Deadline: June 12, 2026
Late applications are generally not considered, so early preparation is advised.
Selection Stages
The selection process involves several steps to identify highly motivated and qualified candidates:
- Online Application: Candidates submit their applications via the WTI online portal.
- Shortlisting: Eligible applicants are selected based on academic merit, experience, leadership potential, and alignment with development goals.
- Interviews: Shortlisted candidates attend interviews, which may be conducted online or in their country of residence.
- Scholarship and University Application Support: Those who pass the interview stage receive tailored support for CSC and UK university applications, along with guidance materials and mentoring.
- Final Scholarship Decision: The Commonwealth Scholarships Commission makes the final decisions on scholarship awards.
Commitment to Inclusion
Windle Trust International is dedicated to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. The organization strongly encourages applications from women, refugees, minority groups, persons living with disabilities, and individuals affected by conflict. This inclusive approach ensures that deserving candidates from vulnerable and underrepresented backgrounds have access to higher education.
Significance of the Scholarship
The Windle Trust International Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is more than just financial aid; it is an investment in individuals who can drive positive change in communities affected by conflict. By supporting postgraduate studies in critical development sectors, the program empowers scholars to improve healthcare, strengthen education, advance climate resilience, promote sustainable agriculture, and advocate for social justice. Graduates are expected to use their acquired knowledge and skills to address pressing challenges in their home countries.
Important Notes for Applicants
Before submitting an application, candidates should remember:
- Windle Trust International never charges fees for scholarship applications.
- Eligibility requirements are strictly applied.
- University application fees are not covered by WTI.
- Applicants should prepare all necessary documents well in advance.
- Strong academic and professional records significantly improve competitiveness.
For application guidance and any inquiries, applicants can contact [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Windle Trust International Postgraduate Scholarship?
You must have refugee status or live in specific conflict-affected areas in Kenya or Uganda, have excellent English, a degree equivalent to a UK 2:1, and at least two years of relevant professional or volunteer experience.
What does the scholarship cover?
It fully funds your Master’s degree, including tuition fees, a monthly living stipend, and relocation assistance to the UK.
When is the application deadline for 2026?
The application window for the 2026 program is from May 15 to June 12, 2026.
Are there any costs associated with applying for the scholarship?
Windle Trust International does not charge any fees for scholarship applications, but you may need to pay university application fees, which are not covered by WTI.
