Victor Pinchuk Foundation - Ukraine Victor Pinchuk Foundation World Wide Studies

World Wide Studies scholarship

You will receive a scholarship of up to about 46,000 EUR (50,000 USD) for a Master’s degree programme abroad. It covers up to 60% of your total study costs, meaning you will need to cover the remainder yourself through financial support from your family or other scholarships. The foundation determines the exact amount for each scholarship holder based on merit and need. The funding applies for the duration of your degree programme, which must be a 1- to 2-year Master’s programme. The grant is provided by the Victor Pinchuk Foundation, a Ukrainian charity that helps young Ukrainians to study at top universities and subsequently return to their home country.

Who can apply

• Nationality: You are a Ukrainian citizen.
• Degree: You already hold a Bachelor’s degree in the relevant subject area and are applying for a Master’s programme.
• Field of study: Your degree programme focuses on agriculture, engineering and technology, alternative energies, ecology and environmental protection, public law or public administration. A related interdisciplinary Master’s programme is also acceptable, provided you can justify your choice.
• Where you study: You must choose a university abroad, ideally one that is ranked amongst the top 200 in the Times Higher Education or QS rankings. Universities not listed in these rankings will only be considered if there is a valid reason.
• Age: You are no older than 35.
• Return commitment: Upon graduation, you undertake to work in your field in Ukraine for at least 5 years.

How to apply

First, choose a Master’s programme, apply and secure a place. Universities generally accept applications from around September to March. Only then should you submit your scholarship application to the ‘World Wide Studies’ programme, between 1 February and 15 May. If you are shortlisted, you will take part in an interview with the foundation’s selection panel.

How realistic are your chances?

Nationality, age and a set of predefined selection criteria narrow down the pool of eligible applicants, but competition is nevertheless fierce. In previous rounds, there were approximately 10 applicants for each place, and you must already have been admitted to a university before you can apply. If you clearly meet the subject requirements, can provide proof of a firm offer from a top-tier university and prepare well for the interview, your chances are good. The requirement to commit to staying in the country for 5 years means that the programme is suitable for those who are seriously planning to build a career in Ukraine.