This article details the 2026 A.S. Hornby Educational Trust Scholarship at the University of Exeter, a fully funded program designed for experienced English language teachers from low- and middle-income countries. Recipients receive a comprehensive financial package including full tuition coverage, a monthly living stipend, and international travel grants. Eligibility requires a minimum of three years of professional TESOL experience, a 2:1 equivalent undergraduate degree, and residency in an OECD DAC listed country. The application follows a specific sequence where candidates must first apply for the scholarship by February 9, 2026, and only apply for university admission if shortlisted following an interview process.
A.S. Hornby MEd TESOL Scholarship Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Study Abroad | Study in the UK |
| Category | Master’s Scholarships |
| Eligible Countries | Selected OECD DAC List Countries (Low/Middle Income) |
| Reward | Full Tuition + Monthly Stipend + Travel Grants |
| Key Criteria | 3 years TESOL experience & leadership potential |
| Application Deadline | February 9th, 2026 |
A.S. Hornby Educational Trust Scholarship 2026
The A.S. Hornby Educational Trust, in collaboration with the University of Exeter, is proud to announce the opening of applications for the 2026 MEd TESOL Scholarship. This initiative is dedicated to enhancing the quality of English language teaching globally by providing advanced academic training to educators who demonstrate the potential to lead and innovate within their national education systems.
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By bringing scholars to the University of Exeter—a global leader in education and linguistics research—the Trust aims to foster a network of experts capable of influencing TESOL policy and practice. This fully funded opportunity is a cornerstone of the Trust’s commitment to supporting professional development in regions where such resources can facilitate the greatest social and educational impact.
Scholarship Details
The MEd TESOL Scholarship is a full-time, one-year residential program specifically designed for international practitioners. It is open to English language teachers, teacher trainers, and education officials from qualifying low- and middle-income countries. The program’s core philosophy is built on “capacity building,” ensuring that scholars return to their home countries equipped with the theoretical and practical tools necessary to strengthen local ELT infrastructure. Sponsored students are fully integrated into the University of Exeter’s academic community, benefiting from world-class facilities and expert supervision.
Benefits and Specific Scholarship Awards of the University of Exeter Admission
Tier 1: Principal Financial Awards (Full Funding)
- Hornby Full Tuition Waiver: Covers 100% of the international tuition fees for the one-year MEd TESOL program.
- Monthly Subsistence Allowance: A comprehensive monthly stipend designed to cover all accommodation and personal living costs throughout the duration of the course.
Tier 2: Travel and Relocation Support
- International Mobility Grant: Covers the cost of return economy-class airfare from the scholar’s home country to the UK.
- Visa and Health Surcharge Coverage: Reimbursement for the UK Student Visa application fee and the mandatory National Health Service (NHS) surcharge.
Tier 3: Professional Development and Materials
- Academic Resource Grant: Provision for approved study-related expenses, including essential textbooks and research materials.
- Alumni Network Access: Automatic enrollment into the global Hornby Alumni network for lifelong professional collaboration.
Eligibility Requirements for University of Exeter MEd TESOL Scholarship 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must hold a university degree (equivalent to a UK 2:1) and provide evidence of leadership potential in the field of English Language Teaching.
- Study Status: This award is strictly for full-time Master of Education (MEd) in TESOL candidates; part-time or distance learning pathways are ineligible.
- Visa Status: Must be a citizen and resident of a qualifying OECD DAC country and be eligible for a UK Student Visa.
- Program Admission: Candidates must possess at least three years of full-time TESOL experience (teaching, training, or policy) gained after their initial degree.
How to Apply for University of Exeter MEd TESOL Scholarships 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program (Scholarship Phase): Submit the official online Hornby Scholarship application form by the February 9 deadline.
- Automatic Evaluation: The Hornby Trust reviews all applications to identify candidates who meet the rigorous ELT experience and leadership criteria.
- Eligibility Assessment (Interview): Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview to assess their potential impact on their home country’s TESOL sector.
- Notification of Award: Successful interviewees are instructed to apply to the University of Exeter; final scholarship confirmation is issued once a university offer is secured.
Application Deadline: February 9, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which countries are eligible for the Hornby Scholarship?
Applicants must be residents of countries listed on the OECD DAC list for 2024-25, which includes Least Developed, Low Income, and Middle Income nations.
2. Is there an age limit for applicants?
There is no specific age limit, but candidates must have at least three years of post-degree professional experience and show potential for a long career in ELT leadership.
3. Does the scholarship cover the costs of dependents?
No. The scholarship is strictly for the individual scholar and does not provide any financial support for family members or dependents.
4. What English language proficiency is required?
Applicants must meet the University of Exeter’s English requirements (usually IELTS 6.5 or equivalent) by the time of formal university admission.
5. Can I apply if I already have a Master’s degree?
You are not eligible if you already hold a Master’s degree in TESOL or a related field from a UK university.
6. Can I study part-time while on this scholarship?
No. The scholarship requires full-time residency in Exeter for the duration of the one-year MEd TESOL program.
7. When will I find out if I have been shortlisted?
Shortlisted applicants will be notified by March 6, 2026, and invited to an interview.
8. Is the scholarship renewable for a second year?
No. The MEd TESOL is a one-year program, and the scholarship funding is capped at the 12-month duration of the course.
9. What happens if I am not from an OECD DAC country?
Unfortunately, you would not be eligible for this specific scholarship as it is targeted towards capacity building in developing nations.
10. Am I required to return home after my studies?
Yes. The scholarship is granted with the expectation that scholars will return to their home countries to apply their knowledge to the local education system.
