A.S. Hornby Trust Scholarships 2026

• Host: University of Exeter
• Study Abroad: Study in Europe
• Reward: Full Scholarship | £15,500 Stipend | Accommodation | Travel Costs
• No IELTS Required
• Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
• Eligible Countries: Low-and Middle-Income Countries
• Deadline: February 9, 2026

Hornby Trust Scholarship Details

Established by A.S. Hornby, the creator of the iconic Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, the A.S. Hornby Educational Trust has a storied legacy of promoting English as a foreign language since 1961. The Trust’s mission centers on capacity building, particularly in regions where English language teaching (ELT) faces systemic hurdles. Partnering with the University of Exeter’s School of Education, the scholarship targets the MEd TESOL program, a one-year full-time Masters degree that blends theoretical rigor with practical application.

The MEd TESOL curriculum is meticulously crafted to address real-world ELT demands. Core modules explore phonology, syntax, and semantics in language acquisition, while electives delve into topics like technology-enhanced learning, inclusive education for multilingual learners, and assessment strategies. Students engage in hands-on activities, such as designing lesson plans for diverse age groups and analyzing case studies from global contexts. The program’s multicultural cohort, drawn from over 20 countries, creates a vibrant learning environment where participants exchange insights on cultural nuances in teaching. Graduates emerge not only with advanced pedagogical skills but also with the ability to lead workshops, influence policy, and mentor peers back home.

For the 2026 cohort, up to ten fully funded scholarships are available, exclusively for the full MEd program (not the PGCert or PGDip options). Recipients must meet the University’s admissions standards, which emphasize academic excellence and professional commitment. The selection process is joint, involving panels from both the University and the Trust, ensuring a holistic evaluation of each candidate’s potential to drive ELT improvements in their origin country.

What sets this scholarship apart is its emphasis on evidenced impact. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their studies will translate into tangible outcomes, such as developing teacher training modules or advocating for better resources in local schools. Past scholars have gone on to establish community ELT centers, publish research on bilingual education, and collaborate with NGOs on literacy initiatives. This ripple effect aligns with the Trust’s vision of sustainable development in ELT, making the opportunity profoundly rewarding beyond personal advancement.

Requirements for 2026 University of Exeter Hornby Trust Scholarship

Eligibility is thoughtfully structured to identify dedicated professionals ready to contribute meaningfully. To qualify, candidates must reside in and currently work within a low or middle income country per the OECD DAC list. This encompasses least developed countries (e.g., Afghanistan, Bangladesh), low income (e.g., Ethiopia, Haiti), lower middle income (e.g., India, Indonesia), and upper middle income (e.g., Brazil, Thailand) nations. The list, updated periodically by the OECD based on World Bank gross national income (GNI) per capita thresholds, ensures focus on regions where ELT resources are often limited. For instance, low income economies have a GNI per capita of USD 1,135 or less, while upper middle income ranges from USD 4,466 to USD 13,845.

A cornerstone requirement is at least three years of full-time TESOL teaching or related professional experience post-undergraduate degree. This could include classroom instruction at primary, secondary, or tertiary levels; curriculum design; teacher training; or roles in educational NGOs. The experience must be verifiable through references and should highlight direct engagement with English learners.

Academically, applicants need an undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK upper second-class honours (2:1) or higher, or a relevant postgraduate qualification. Equivalencies vary by country; for example, a GPA of 3.3/4.0 or 70% in many systems aligns with this standard. Transcripts and degree certificates must be submitted, with non-English documents translated by certified services.

A pivotal step is securing admission to the MEd TESOL program first. This involves submitting a standard postgraduate application via the University’s online portal, which generates a unique Exeter student number. Only with this number can you proceed to the scholarship form. The admissions process assesses your personal statement, where you outline your teaching philosophy and career goals; academic records; and a single academic reference (employer references are optional but strengthen the case).

Language proficiency is assumed through your professional experience, hence no separate IELTS is mandated. However, the University may request evidence if needed, such as prior degrees taught in English. Overall, these criteria ensure scholars are not novices but mid-career influencers poised for greater leadership.

Benefits of 2026 University of Exeter Scholarship

The scholarship’s value extends far beyond finances, offering a holistic support system. Full tuition fees are waived, covering the program’s cost (typically around £25,000 for international students). The stipend, at minimum £15,500, is disbursed monthly to ease budgeting for housing, meals, and daily needs in Exeter, a vibrant yet affordable city. Accommodation assistance includes guidance on university-managed halls or private rentals, often in lively areas near the Streatham Campus.

Return international travel costs are fully reimbursed, including economy flights from your home airport to Exeter International Airport. Additional perks may include visa support letters and orientation sessions to acclimate scholars to UK life. Upon completion, alumni join the Hornby Trust network, gaining access to ongoing professional development, such as online webinars, research grants, and global conferences.

These benefits alleviate barriers, allowing focus on studies and networking. Imagine immersing in Exeter’s historic charm, from its Gothic cathedral to riverside walks, while building lifelong connections. The program’s return-on-investment is evident: scholars often secure promotions, consultancies, or leadership roles, amplifying their societal contributions.