Felix Scholarships 2027 in United Kingdom | Fully Funded — SOAS University of London
Financial hardship keeps many strong candidates out of postgraduate study entirely, and the Felix Scholarship was built around that exact problem rather than academic merit alone.
About the Scholarship
The Felix Scholarship Trust funds postgraduate study at SOAS University of London, along with a small number of partner universities, for students from specific countries across South Asia and parts of Africa. The trust places real weight on financial need alongside academic merit, meaning applicants are expected to show that they genuinely could not otherwise afford postgraduate study in the UK. Felix Scholars typically pursue one-year taught master’s degrees, often in subjects connected to development, humanities, law, or social sciences, areas where SOAS has particular strength.
The scholarship has run for decades and maintains an active network of former scholars working across government, international organizations, academia, and the private sector in their home countries.
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fees for a one-year master’s degree at SOAS or an eligible partner institution
- A living stipend covering accommodation and daily expenses
- Return economy airfare to and from the UK
- A warm clothing allowance for scholars arriving from warmer climates
- Access to the Felix Scholars alumni network
- Additional support for scholars with genuine financial hardship documented during the process
Eligibility Criteria
- Be a citizen of an eligible country, drawn mainly from South Asia and parts of Africa
- Hold an undergraduate degree with strong academic results
- Demonstrate genuine financial need that would otherwise prevent postgraduate study in the UK
- Apply for an eligible one-year master’s course at SOAS or a Felix partner institution
- Show clear academic and career motivation for the chosen course
- Meet SOAS’s standard English language and admission requirements
Fields of Study Covered
Felix Scholarships typically support master’s courses in development studies, law, economics, area studies, politics, and other humanities and social science fields where SOAS is especially well known internationally.
Required Documents
- Standard SOAS postgraduate application
- A separate Felix Scholarship application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Evidence of financial circumstances
- Academic references
- A personal statement explaining motivation and future plans
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Confirm your nationality appears on the current list of Felix-eligible countries
- Apply for admission to an eligible SOAS master’s course
- Complete the separate Felix Scholarship application, including financial need documentation
- Submit references and transcripts before the published deadline
- Respond promptly if the Trust requests additional financial evidence
- Wait for both your admission decision and scholarship outcome from SOAS
Selection Process
SOAS reviews applicants first for academic admission, then Felix-specific applications are assessed by the Trust for financial need and academic merit together. Shortlisted candidates may be asked for further information or an interview before final scholars are confirmed ahead of the academic year.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Be honest and thorough when documenting financial circumstances, since this is central to selection
- Choose a course that clearly matches your academic background and realistic career plans
- Explain specifically how the degree will help you contribute back home after graduating
- Apply as early as possible within the admissions cycle, since SOAS courses can fill before scholarship deadlines
- Compare this option with the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship if your home country is eligible for both
- Keep academic references focused on your intellectual strengths and seriousness of purpose
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries are eligible for Felix Scholarships?
Eligibility is limited to a specific list of countries across South Asia and parts of Africa, published annually by the Felix Scholarship Trust.
Is financial need really assessed closely?
Yes, financial hardship is a core part of selection, not just a formality, alongside academic merit.
Can I study anywhere other than SOAS?
A small number of partner institutions also participate, though SOAS remains the primary host university.
Does the scholarship cover PhD study?
No, Felix Scholarships are designed for one-year postgraduate master’s courses.
Do I need work experience to apply?
Work experience is not mandatory, though relevant experience can strengthen a personal statement.
How many scholarships are awarded each year?
The number varies annually depending on available funding and the strength of that year’s applicant pool.
Is an interview always required?
Not always, though shortlisted candidates may be asked for an interview or further documentation.
What happens if my financial situation changes after applying?
You should inform the Trust directly, since significant changes to financial circumstances can affect an award decision.