Gordon Memorial College Trust Fund - Gordon Memorial College Trust Fund

Gordon Memorial College Trust Fund grant

You will receive a scholarship of tops up your existing funding for one year of your postgraduate studies. It will help you bridge a funding gap in your costs, such as tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses, and sometimes other study-related expenses such as books. This is not full funding. You must already have secured funding from other sources and only require support to cover the shortfall. The grant is valid for one year, so you will need to reapply for it each year. It is provided by a UK charity that supports the education of people from Sudan and South Sudan.

Who can apply

• Nationality: You are a national of Sudan or South Sudan.
• Level: You are undertaking postgraduate studies: a diploma, a Master’s degree or a PhD.
• Where you study: You are studying in the UK or in a country bordering Sudan or South Sudan.
• Field of study: All subject areas are open. Preference will be given to courses considered particularly useful for Sudan or South Sudan.
• Return plan: You are planning to return to Sudan or South Sudan after completing your studies and work there.
• Grades: You achieved a grade point average of at least 3.3 out of 4.0 in your first degree programme.
• Financial need: Part of the funding has already been secured. You can specify exactly how much you still need and what the money is intended for.
• Study stage: You are already enrolled on this course. Students who have not yet started the course may also apply, but priority will be given to those who are already enrolled.

The scholarship does not cover short training courses lasting just a few weeks or months, medical placements or support for family members travelling with you.

How to apply

You should complete the application form on the Foundation’s website. It is only available during the application period from 1 December to 27 February. You will need two references from professional contacts, as well as a letter of recommendation from your academic supervisor. Decisions on the award of scholarships are usually made in April for degree programmes starting the following autumn.

How realistic are your chances?

This scholarship is subject to restrictions regarding nationality, level of study and intention to return, meaning that the pool of eligible applicants is small. Nevertheless, competition is fierce: according to the foundation, around one in four applications is successful. A clearly structured application that sets out exactly what you need and demonstrates that you are already receiving some financial support is what sets strong applicants apart.