The British Council has launched an exciting Scholarships Scheme for Experienced Teachers & Bloggers, offering 40 fully funded places on online master’s degrees in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Available to professionals from Ghana, Kenya, Türkiye, Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka, this initiative combines flexible distance learning with a two-week UK study visit, empowering educators to drive English language teaching (ELT) reform in their home countries.
Overview of the Scholarship Scheme
In partnership with the University of Portsmouth and the University of Stirling, the British Council’s English and School Education Scholarships Scheme aims to strengthen ELT in government schools and teacher training institutions. From September 2026, selected scholars will enroll in part-time, online master’s programs (MA TESOL or MSc TESOL) lasting up to 30 months. The highlight is a fully funded, two-week residency at a UK campus—an opportunity for hands-on collaboration, networking, and cultural immersion.
By accessing world-class faculty, specialized resources, and mentoring, scholars gain advanced skills in modern TESOL methodologies, classroom innovation, and educational leadership. Upon graduation, participants join the British Council’s global alumni network, unlocking further professional development, international collaborations, and conference opportunities.
Who Can Apply?
To ensure direct impact on national education priorities, applicants must:
- Be a permanent resident of Ghana, Kenya, Türkiye, Bangladesh, India, or Sri Lanka with a valid passport.
- Work in or directly with government education systems (public schools or state-affiliated teacher training institutions).
- Serve as an active English language teacher or teacher educator with demonstrable experience.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and meet academic entry requirements for the chosen master’s program.
- Show strong commitment to advancing ELT in the public sector through leadership roles or educational contributions.
- Agree to participate in post-graduation monitoring, reporting, and British Council alumni activities.
Applicants from Ghana, Kenya, and Türkiye should apply for the University of Portsmouth’s MA TESOL (Distance Learning), while those from Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka target the University of Stirling’s MSc TESOL (Online). Each country receives approximately 6–7 scholarships, with 20 awards per university partner.
Key Benefits
This fully funded package removes financial barriers and includes:
- 100% tuition coverage for the entire online master’s program.
- Return economy flights and on-campus accommodation for the UK study visit.
- Daily breakfast and living stipend during the two-week UK residency.
- Reimbursement of visa application and one English language test fee (e.g., IELTS).
Beyond funding, scholars develop expertise in TESOL best practices, gain insights into classroom innovation, and build a global professional network. For educators with blogs or online platforms, enhanced credentials and fresh content can amplify digital influence and community reach.
How to Apply
The application process involves two main steps:
- University Admission:
- Ghana, Kenya, Türkiye → University of Portsmouth MA TESOL (Distance Learning).
- Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka → University of Stirling MSc TESOL (Online).
Attend information webinars, complete the university application, and secure a conditional or unconditional offer.
- Scholarship Application: Once you hold a university offer, submit your scholarship application via the British Council portal. Applications without a confirmed university place will not be considered.
Craft a strong personal statement highlighting your ELT experience, leadership vision, and commitment to systemic impact. Watch British Council webinars for tips and deadline reminders.
Required Documents
- Valid passport copy.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Proof of current employment in government education (employment letter or contract).
- English language proficiency evidence (test fees reimbursed).
- Personal statement on career goals and national ELT contributions.
- Two professional reference letters.
- Updated CV or résumé detailing teaching and leadership roles.
Application Deadline & Start Date
Submit your scholarship application by 30 April 2026. To allow time for university admissions, apply to the master’s program well before this date. Online studies begin in September 2026—don’t miss this chance to elevate your ELT career!
Official Website & Application:
britishcouncil.org/School-Education/scholarships-scheme
