Equity and Merit Scholarships for International Master’s Students

The world today faces numerous challenges that demand innovative and sustainable solutions. Addressing these global issues requires a well-educated workforce capable of leading change and driving development, particularly in the Global South. Recognizing the critical need to empower young professionals from developing nations, the Equity and Merit Scholarships have been established. These scholarships, aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), provide an unparalleled opportunity for academically outstanding students to pursue a master’s degree at a prestigious institution, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.

The Purpose and Vision of Equity and Merit Scholarships

The Equity and Merit Scholarships are specifically designed to support students from Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. These scholarships aim to enable talented individuals who lack the financial resources to study in Manchester. By offering full financial support, the program ensures that students can focus entirely on their studies, without the burden of financial stress. The ultimate goal is to create a cadre of skilled professionals who will return to their home countries and apply their expertise to address pressing developmental challenges, thus contributing to the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Why Equity and Merit?

The scholarships are named "Equity and Merit" to reflect their core principles. 

Equity signifies the commitment to providing opportunities for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede access to quality education. 

Merit underscores the emphasis on academic excellence and the potential for these students to make a significant impact in their fields of study and beyond.

Scholarship Details and Types

The Equity and Merit Scholarships offer two distinct pathways for students to pursue a master’s degree:

• Full-Time, On-Campus Master’s Programs: These scholarships cover a one-year full-time master’s program at the university's Manchester campus. This option is ideal for students who wish to immerse themselves in the academic environment and take full advantage of the university's resources, networking opportunities, and in-person mentorship.
• Part-Time, Distance Learning Master’s Programs: Recognizing that not all students can relocate or commit to full-time study, this option provides the flexibility to pursue a master’s degree online, over a period of three to five years. This pathway is particularly suited for professionals who wish to continue working while advancing their education, thereby allowing them to immediately apply their new knowledge in their current roles.

What the Scholarships Cover

For both types of scholarships, the coverage is comprehensive.

• Full-Time, On-Campus Scholarships: These scholarships include full tuition fees, return international airfare, living expenses for the duration of the study period, and visa costs. This extensive support ensures that students can fully engage with their studies and the cultural experience of living in Manchester without worrying about financial barriers.
• Part-Time, Distance Learning Scholarships: For students opting for the part-time distance learning route, the scholarship covers all tuition fees for the duration of the program. This makes it possible for students to gain a world-class education from the comfort of their home countries, without the financial strain that typically accompanies international study.

Eligible Courses

The Equity and Merit Scholarships are available for a diverse range of master’s programs that align closely with the needs of the Global South and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. The courses offered under this scholarship scheme cover disciplines such as:

• Engineering: Courses that focus on sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, and other key engineering disciplines critical for development.
• Environment: Programs that address climate change, conservation, and sustainable management of natural resources.
• Health Sciences: Degrees that equip students with the knowledge to tackle public health challenges, particularly in underserved regions.
• Development: Courses focused on international development, policy-making, and sustainable economic growth.
• Education: Programs aimed at improving educational systems and access in developing countries.
• Textiles: Degrees that combine innovation with sustainability in the textile industry, a sector that has significant economic importance in many developing nations.
• Law: Courses that prepare students to address legal issues related to human rights, environmental law, and international development.

This breadth of disciplines ensures that scholarship recipients can pursue their specific areas of interest while contributing to a broad spectrum of sustainable development goals.

Eligibility Criteria

The Equity and Merit Scholarships are intended for academically excellent students who demonstrate the potential to drive sustainable development in their home countries. The following are the key eligibility requirements:

• Nationality: Applicants must be nationals of Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, or Zimbabwe.
• Academic Excellence: Applicants should possess a first-class or upper second-class undergraduate degree (or the international equivalent) from a recognized institution. This ensures that the scholarship recipients are well-prepared to handle the rigors of postgraduate study.
• Financial Need: The scholarships are specifically designed for individuals who would not be able to afford to study at the university without financial assistance. This criterion helps to ensure that the scholarships are awarded to those who will benefit the most from the opportunity.
• Commitment to Development: Applicants must demonstrate a clear commitment to contributing to sustainable development in their home countries after completing their studies. This may be evidenced through prior work experience, volunteer activities, or the focus of their proposed master’s study.
• English Language Proficiency: As the courses are taught in English, applicants must meet the university’s English language requirements. This may involve providing proof of proficiency through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.

Encouraging Applications from Women

The scholarship program strongly encourages applications from women, recognizing the vital role that gender diversity plays in achieving sustainable development. Empowering women through education not only benefits the individual recipients but also has a multiplier effect on their families, communities, and societies. The program seeks to address the gender gap in higher education, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by men, such as engineering and technology.

How to Apply

The application process for the Equity and Merit Scholarships is designed to be transparent and straightforward, ensuring that all eligible candidates have an equal opportunity to apply. The process involves several key steps:

• Application Window: The scholarship application window is open from 1 to 31 August 2024. During this period, interested candidates must submit their scholarship applications online.
• Eligibility Checks: In September 2024, all applications will undergo an eligibility review to ensure that they meet the basic requirements of nationality, academic excellence, financial need, and commitment to development.
• Academic Application: Candidates who pass the eligibility checks will be invited to submit a formal application to their chosen master’s program. This application period runs from 1 to 31 October 2024.
• Review Period: From November 2024 to May 2025, the selection committee will review the academic applications. This period involves a rigorous assessment process to identify the most deserving candidates based on their academic credentials, personal statements, and alignment with the scholarship’s objectives.
• Results Announcement: Successful candidates will be notified of their scholarship award in June 2025.
• Commencement of Studies: Scholarship recipients will begin their academic programs in September 2025, marking the start of their journey towards becoming leaders in sustainable development.

University of Manchester Official Application Website

Tips for a Successful Application

To maximize the chances of securing an Equity and Merit Scholarship, applicants should consider the following tips:

• Prepare Early: Start gathering the necessary documents and preparing your personal statement well before the application window opens. This will give you ample time to ensure that your application is complete and compelling.
• Highlight Your Impact: In your application, emphasize how your studies will enable you to contribute to sustainable development in your home country. Provide specific examples of your past work or future plans that align with the scholarship’s goals.
• Demonstrate Financial Need: Clearly explain your financial situation and why you would be unable to pursue a master’s degree without the scholarship. Be honest and detailed in your explanation.
• Seek Guidance: If possible, seek advice from mentors, professors, or past scholarship recipients. They can provide valuable insights and help you strengthen your application.
• Review and Edit: Ensure that your application is free of errors and clearly articulates your qualifications and motivations. A well-polished application can make a significant difference.

The Broader Impact of Equity and Merit Scholarships

The Equity and Merit Scholarships are more than just financial awards; they are investments in the future of global development. By enabling students from the Global South to access world-class education, the program is building a network of professionals equipped to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time. These individuals are expected to return to their home countries, where they will apply their skills and knowledge to drive progress in areas such as healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure development.

The ripple effect of these scholarships extends beyond the individual recipients. As these professionals implement sustainable solutions, they will influence policy, mentor future leaders, and contribute to the economic and social development of their communities and countries. This multiplier effect aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in reducing inequality, promoting inclusive education, and fostering innovation and infrastructure development.

Conclusion

The Equity and Merit Scholarships represent a transformative opportunity for young professionals from Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. These scholarships not only provide access to world-class education but also empower individuals to make a meaningful impact in their home countries. By focusing on academic excellence, financial need, and a commitment to sustainable development, the program aligns with the broader global goals of equality, development, and sustainability.

As the application process for the 2025/26 academic year opens, potential candidates are encouraged to prepare diligently and apply. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards—both personal and societal—are immense. The Equity and Merit Scholarships are not just about academic achievement; they are about shaping the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow, who will contribute to a more equitable and sustainable world.