British Council English and School Education Scholarships 2026/2027: Apply Now
Applications are now open for the British Council English and School Education Scholarships Scheme 2026/2027. This fully funded program offers experienced teachers and teacher educators from select countries, including Ghana and Kenya, a chance to advance their skills. The British Council partners with the University of Portsmouth and the University of Stirling to strengthen English language teaching in government schools. Scholars join part-time online master’s programs in TESOL, with a two-week study visit to the UK. This article covers eligibility, programs, benefits, application steps, and the timeline.
Overview of the British Council English and School Education Scholarships Scheme 2026/2027
The British Council English and School Education Scholarships Scheme 2026/2027 funds teachers and educators to improve English teaching in government schools. It works with the University of Portsmouth and the University of Stirling. The program awards 40 fully funded scholarships for part-time online TESOL master’s degrees. These last up to 30 months and start in September 2026. A two-week UK study visit adds in-person collaboration and networking. It targets those from Ghana, Kenya, Türkiye, Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka in government education systems.
Key facts include:
- 40 fully funded scholarships available
- Fully online study with a two-week UK visit
- Part-time format lets you keep working
- Starts September 2026, up to 30 months long
- Focuses on government school English teachers and educators
Eligible Countries and Programs
Two programs match the countries. The table below compares them.
| University | Program Name | Countries | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Portsmouth | MA TESOL (Distance Learning) | Ghana, Kenya, Türkiye | Up to 26 months |
| University of Stirling | MSc TESOL (Online) | Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka | Up to 30 months |
Educators from Ghana, Kenya, and Türkiye join the Portsmouth program. Those from Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka take the Stirling course. Both run part-time online.
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet these criteria to apply:
- Hold a passport and be a permanent resident of an eligible country
- Work in or directly with the government education system
- Serve as an active English language teacher or teacher educator
- Meet the academic entry criteria for the chosen master’s program
- Show strong commitment to improving national ELT systems
- Participate in British Council monitoring and alumni activity
You need an offer from the university before you can submit a scholarship application.
Program Delivery and UK Study Visit
The programs run fully online. You get weekly materials for flexible study. Support comes from tutors and sessions.
Online features include:
- Asynchronous study materials
- Occasional live or virtual sessions
- One-to-one tutor support
- Online dissertation supervision
The two-week UK visit builds connections. Dates vary by program:
- University of Portsmouth: Summer 2027
- University of Stirling: Typically June 2027
Cohorts set exact dates together.
Scholarship Benefits
These scholarships cover everything you need. They make advanced study possible without costs.
Benefits include:
- Full tuition fees for the online master’s
- Return flights to the UK
- Campus accommodation during the two-week visit
- Breakfast and living stipend for daily expenses
- Visa application fee reimbursement
- Reimbursement of one English language test fee
How to Apply for the Scholarships
Follow these steps in order. The deadline is 30 April 2026.
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Apply for a place on the relevant master’s program. For Ghana, Kenya, and Türkiye, use the University of Portsmouth MA TESOL (Distance Learning). Watch the information webinar. For Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka, use the University of Stirling MSc TESOL (Online). Watch the information webinar.
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Receive an offer from the university.
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Submit your scholarship application. You can only do this after getting the offer. If you get a place but no scholarship, you do not have to join the course.
Application Timeline
This table shows key dates.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications close | 30 April 2026 |
| Online study begins | September 2026 |
| UK visit | Summer/June 2027 |
Act soon to meet the deadline and secure your spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries can apply for these scholarships?
Teachers and educators from Ghana, Kenya, Türkiye, Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka who work in government education systems are eligible.
What do the scholarships cover?
They pay full tuition, return flights to the UK, accommodation during the visit, a daily stipend, visa fees, and one English test fee.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
First apply to the matching university program and get an offer, then submit your scholarship application by 30 April 2026.
When does the program start and how long is it?
Online study begins in September 2026 and lasts up to 26-30 months part-time, with a two-week UK visit in summer 2027.