British Council English and School Education Scholarships 2026: Apply Now
Applications are now open for the British Council English and School Education Scholarships Scheme 2026. The deadline is April 30, 2026. This program partners with the University of Portsmouth and the University of Stirling. It targets educators in Ghana, Kenya, Türkiye, Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka. The goal is to build stronger English language teaching in government schools. It offers 40 fully funded scholarships to help experienced teachers advance their skills.
The scheme provides 40 fully funded scholarships. These go to experienced teachers and teacher educators. They can pursue part-time, online master’s degrees in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, or TESOL. Educators from Ghana, Kenya, and Türkiye join the MA TESOL (Distance Learning) at the University of Portsmouth. Those from Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka take the MSc TESOL (Online) at the University of Stirling. Participants keep working in their home countries. Each also gets a two-week study visit to the UK.
This support covers everything educators need to focus on their studies. Here is what the scholarship includes:
- Full tuition fees for the online master’s program
- Return flights to the UK
- Accommodation on campus during the two-week visit
- Breakfast plus a living stipend for daily expenses during the visit
- Visa application fee reimbursement
- Reimbursement of one English language test fee
Such benefits remove barriers. They let teachers from busy school systems gain top skills without financial worry.
To qualify, applicants must meet clear criteria. Check these points against your background:
- Hold a passport and be a permanent resident of an eligible country
- Work in or directly with the government education system
- Serve as an active English language teacher or teacher educator
- Meet the academic entry requirements for the chosen master’s program
- Show strong commitment to improving national English language teaching systems
- Agree to take part in British Council monitoring and alumni activities
These rules ensure the scholarships reach dedicated professionals who can make real change back home.
The application process has clear steps. Follow them in order to stay on track.
- Apply for a place on the relevant TESOL master’s program.
- Receive an offer from the university.
- Submit your scholarship application.
You need these documents:
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- CV
- Personal statement
- References (usually one academic and/or professional)
- English test score (if already available; not required at first)
Clear scans or photos work for the initial review. Note that you apply for the master’s first. Scholarship applications come only after you get a university offer. If you get into the course but miss the scholarship, you do not have to enroll.
Applicants from Ghana, Kenya, and Türkiye should use the University of Portsmouth program. Watch the information webinar and apply or enquire here.
Applicants from Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka should use the University of Stirling program. Watch the information webinar and apply or enquire here.
For full details, visit the British Council English and School Education Scholarships Scheme page. This chance can boost careers and help national school systems teach English better.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for these scholarships?
Experienced English teachers or teacher educators from Ghana, Kenya, Türkiye, Bangladesh, India, or Sri Lanka working in government schools.
What does the scholarship cover?
It includes full tuition, return flights to the UK, two-week accommodation, stipend, visa fee, and one English test fee.
How do I apply?
First apply to the master’s program at Portsmouth or Stirling, get an offer, then submit the scholarship application with your documents.
When is the deadline?
Applications close on April 30, 2026.