Brittan Scholarship 2026: A Guide for Aspiring Master’s Students

The Brittan Scholarship offers a significant financial opportunity for individuals with an asylum-seeking background pursuing master’s degrees in the UK. This scholarship aims to honor Lord Leon Brittan’s legacy by supporting those seeking higher education, particularly those from immigrant and asylum-seeking families. For the 2026 intake, applications are open for students in specific fields, providing up to £20,000 to cover tuition fees and some living expenses. Understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is key to successfully securing this valuable award.

Understanding the Brittan Scholarship

The Brittan Scholarship is designed to assist students at the master’s level who have an asylum-seeking background. Lord Leon Brittan, who himself came from an immigrant family, established this scholarship with a deep understanding and sympathy for individuals seeking educational opportunities. The scholarship provides financial support to help cover the costs associated with postgraduate studies in the UK. It is awarded annually to eligible candidates who demonstrate a commitment to their chosen field of study.

Fields of Study Covered

This scholarship specifically supports students pursuing master’s degrees in four key areas: International Law, Human Rights Law, International Aid, and International Business. These subjects were chosen to align with Lord Brittan’s interests and his belief in the importance of global cooperation and justice. By focusing on these disciplines, the Brittan Scholarship aims to foster future leaders and professionals who can contribute to international understanding and development.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Brittan Scholarship, applicants must meet several specific criteria. Firstly, candidates must be currently residing in the United Kingdom. Secondly, they must have already applied for, or be in the process of applying to, a master’s degree program at a UK university. A crucial requirement is having an asylum-seeking background, meaning their immigration status in the UK is a result of an asylum claim. Finally, as mentioned, the applicant’s chosen course of study must fall within the specified fields: international law, human rights law, international aid, or international business.

Scholarship Award Details

The Brittan Scholarship offers substantial financial assistance, with awards of up to £20,000 available. This funding is intended to cover tuition fees for the master’s program. In addition to tuition, the scholarship also provides a small grant to help with living expenses during the academic year. This dual support aims to alleviate the financial burden on students, allowing them to focus more fully on their studies and academic success.

Application Process and Timeline

The application window for the Brittan Scholarship 2026 intake is now open. The deadline for submitting applications is 5:00 PM BST on May 29, 2026. Prospective candidates are encouraged to complete and submit their applications well before this date. Following the application deadline, successful candidates will be invited for interviews, which are scheduled to take place in July 2026. The application form can be accessed via a provided link, and further information is available on the official Brittan Scholarship website.