Saïd Foundation Scholarships 2027/28 – Fully Funded UK Master’s Scholarship
Saïd Foundation Scholarships 2027/28
The Saïd Foundation Scholarships 2027/28 are now open for applications for eligible students from Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine who want to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the United Kingdom.
The scholarship programme provides fully funded support, including tuition fees, living and maintenance costs, an arrival allowance, visa and healthcare surcharge fees, and one economy return flight. The Foundation offers approximately 20–30 new scholarships each year.
For the 2027/28 intake, applications opened on 1 September 2026 and will close at 5:00 PM UK time on Friday, 30 October 2026.
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Important: The Saïd Foundation scholarship is not open to all international students. Applicants must meet the Foundation’s nationality/residency requirements and other eligibility conditions.
Table of Contents
- What Is the Saïd Foundation Scholarship?
- Saïd Foundation Scholarship 2027/28 Key Details
- What Does the Scholarship Cover?
- Who Can Apply?
- Eligible Countries
- Academic Requirements
- English Language Requirements
- Eligible Study Programmes
- Saïd Foundation Partner Universities
- Required Documents
- Three Reference Letters
- Application Process
- Important Dates
- Selection Process
- Can Pakistani Students Apply?
- How to Increase the Strength of Your Application
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How to Apply
What Is the Saïd Foundation Scholarship?
The Saïd Foundation Scholarship is a UK postgraduate scholarship programme designed to support talented individuals from the Foundation’s target countries in gaining advanced education and using their knowledge and skills to contribute to development in their home countries or region.
The Foundation has provided educational scholarships and training opportunities since 1984. Its scholarship programme focuses on candidates with academic ability, leadership potential, relevant experience and a clear commitment to contributing to their communities.
For 2027/28, the Foundation is offering scholarships for one-year master’s degree programmes in the UK.
The scholarship does not support undergraduate or PhD programmes.
Saïd Foundation Scholarship 2027/28 – Key Details
| Scholarship | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Saïd Foundation Scholarships 2027/28 |
| Study Country | United Kingdom |
| Level of Study | Master’s |
| Programme Length | One year |
| Funding | Fully funded |
| Eligible Nationalities | Syrian, Jordanian, Lebanese and Palestinian |
| Application Opens | 1 September 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 30 October 2026, 5:00 PM UK time |
| Interviews | March 2027 |
| Final Selection | Beginning of June 2027 |
| Study Start | Autumn 2027 |
| Age Limit | No age limit |
| PhD Eligible? | No |
| Undergraduate Eligible? | No |
The above dates and eligibility information are based on the Saïd Foundation’s official 2027/28 information.
What Does the Saïd Foundation Scholarship Cover?
The Saïd Foundation describes its awards as fully funded scholarships.
According to the Foundation, the scholarship includes:
- ✅ Full tuition fees
- ✅ Full maintenance/living costs for the duration of the course
- ✅ Arrival allowance
- ✅ Visa fees
- ✅ Healthcare surcharge fees
- ✅ One economy return flight
Approximately 20–30 new scholarships are awarded annually.
What about family members?
The Foundation does not provide financial support for students’ spouses or children and advises scholars to travel to the UK unaccompanied.
There is also a separate funding arrangement for students selected to study at the University of Oxford or University of Cambridge, and for Chevening partner scholars.
Who Can Apply for the Saïd Foundation Scholarship 2027/28?
To be considered, applicants generally need to satisfy several requirements.
Applicants must:
- Hold Syrian, Jordanian, Lebanese or Palestinian nationality.
- Normally permanently reside in one of the Foundation’s target countries.
- Hold an undergraduate degree equivalent to at least a UK Upper Second-Class (2:1) degree, or be in the final year of their undergraduate degree.
- Have relevant work and/or voluntary experience.
- Demonstrate leadership potential.
- Have a clear career path and intention to contribute to their home country or region.
- Apply for an eligible master’s course.
- Meet the Foundation’s English language requirement.
- Submit all required documents and references.
There is no age limit for applicants.
Eligible Countries for Saïd Foundation Scholarships
The Foundation currently identifies four main target countries:
🇸🇾 Syria
Syrian applicants can be considered under the Foundation’s eligibility requirements. The Foundation also states that it is more flexible regarding Syrian candidates who are living outside Syria because of current circumstances.
🇯🇴 Jordan
Jordanian nationals who meet the academic, professional, English-language and other requirements can apply.
🇱🇧 Lebanon
Lebanese nationals are eligible to apply if they satisfy the Foundation’s requirements.
🇵🇸 Palestine
Palestinian nationals are eligible under the Foundation’s requirements. The Foundation also has specific provisions for Palestinians normally resident in Gaza who have been displaced since 2023.
Important: Applicants should carefully check the official eligibility rules before starting an application.
Academic Requirements
Applicants normally need an undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK 2:1 or higher.
Students who are currently in the final year of their undergraduate degree may also apply, provided they submit the required academic transcripts.
The Foundation provides country-specific guidance for assessing degree results, but it notes that these comparisons are only a guide and applicants should also check degree requirements with their chosen UK university.
Academic subjects
There are no general restrictions on academic subjects.
However, applicants must explain why their chosen field of study is relevant and how it can contribute to the development of their home country.
English Language Requirements
Applicants must provide evidence of meeting the Saïd Foundation’s English language requirement when submitting the scholarship application.
The Foundation currently accepts:
| Test | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.0 overall and 6.0 in each band |
| Duolingo | 105 overall and 105 in each band |
| TOEFL iBT | Minimum requirements specified by the Foundation depending on test date |
For the 2027/28 scholarship cycle, English-language certificates must be dated after 1 September 2025.
Applicants must also satisfy the English-language requirements of their chosen UK university, which may be higher than the Foundation’s minimum.
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What Can You Study With the Saïd Foundation Scholarship?
The Saïd Foundation supports one-year master’s degree courses in the UK.
There are no general restrictions on academic subjects, but applicants need to demonstrate the relevance of their selected subject to their home country and future career.
Important restrictions
The Foundation does not normally accept applications for:
- ❌ Undergraduate programmes
- ❌ PhD programmes
- ❌ Two-year master’s programmes
- ❌ Study at universities outside the UK
Distance-learning programmes may only be considered in exceptional circumstances and must meet the Foundation’s requirements.
Saïd Foundation Partner Universities
Applicants are expected to apply to one or more of the Foundation’s partner universities.
The Foundation’s current partner list includes universities such as:
- University of Birmingham
- University of Bristol
- University of Cambridge
- Durham University
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Essex
- University of Exeter
- University of Glasgow
- Goldsmiths, University of London
- Imperial College London
- King’s College London
- University College London (UCL)
- University of Leeds
- University of Leicester
- London School of Economics and Political Science
- Loughborough University
- University of Nottingham
- University of Oxford
- Royal College of Art
- Royal Holloway, University of London
- SOAS University of London
- University of Southampton
- University for the Creative Arts
The Foundation maintains the current partner-university information on its official website.
Internal link: Students can also explore more UK opportunities on GoGetScholarship’s [UK Scholarships for International Students] page. UK Scholarships for International Students
Required Documents for Saïd Foundation Scholarship
Applicants should prepare their documents before submitting the application.
The Foundation currently requires:
- High school marks/certificate
- University transcripts
- University graduation certificate, if applicable
- Current passport or national ID
- English-language test certificate
- UK university offer letter or evidence of application
- Three reference letters
- Updated CV
The CV should be no longer than two pages and should not include a photograph.
If the selected university’s course application is not yet open by the Saïd Foundation deadline, applicants may provide evidence of their university application later, subject to the Foundation’s deadline of 29 January 2027.
Three Reference Letters Are Required
One important part of the Saïd Foundation application is the reference requirement.
Applicants must submit three different reference letters with their scholarship application.
The Foundation specifies:
- One academic reference
- One reference from a current or recent employer
- One reference connected to voluntary activities
If a professional referee is not available, the Foundation may accept another academic or voluntary reference.
Important: References must be uploaded before the scholarship application is submitted. They cannot normally be added after submission.
How to Apply for Saïd Foundation Scholarships 2027/28
The application process involves several important steps.
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Before preparing your application, confirm that you meet the nationality, residency, academic, experience and English-language requirements.
Step 2: Research eligible master’s programmes
Find a suitable one-year master’s programme in the UK.
Ideally, select a course offered by one of the Foundation’s partner universities.
Step 3: Apply to your chosen university
Where the course application is already open, applicants should submit their university application and provide evidence as required.
Step 4: Prepare your documents
Prepare your:
- Academic documents
- Passport/ID
- English test certificate
- CV
- University application evidence
- Three reference letters
Step 5: Complete the Saïd Foundation application
Submit the scholarship application online before the deadline.
Step 6: Submit all required information
Make sure all required documents are uploaded before submitting your application.
Step 7: Wait for assessment
Eligible applications are assessed by the Foundation and external experts.
Step 8: Interview
Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews in March 2027.
Saïd Foundation Scholarship 2027/28 Deadline and Important Dates
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 1 September 2026 |
| Scholarship Application Deadline | 30 October 2026, 5:00 PM UK time |
| Eligibility & Assessment | November 2026 – January 2027 |
| Evidence of University Application Deadline | 29 January 2027 |
| Interviews | March 2027 |
| Final Selection | May 2027 |
| Successful Candidates Informed | Beginning of June 2027 |
| Study Begins | Autumn 2027 |
These dates come from the Foundation’s official 2027/28 timetable.
Don’t wait until the final day
Applicants should start early because obtaining university applications, English-language test results and three reference letters can take time.
How Are Saïd Foundation Scholars Selected?
The Foundation says scholarship applications are considered based on several factors, including:
- Academic excellence
- Relevance and usefulness of the chosen subject
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to serving the community
- Future career goals
- Ability to use the knowledge gained in the UK to contribute to development in the Middle East
The Foundation conducts an eligibility check before eligible applications proceed to assessment. Eligible candidates are assessed by Foundation staff and external experts before shortlisted candidates are invited to interview.
Can Pakistani Students Apply for the Saïd Foundation Scholarship?
No, Pakistani nationality is not listed among the Saïd Foundation’s eligible nationalities for the 2027/28 scholarship programme.
The Foundation’s target nationalities are:
- Syrian
- Jordanian
- Lebanese
- Palestinian
Applicants should not confuse this scholarship with general UK scholarships that accept students from Pakistan and other countries.
For Pakistani students looking for UK opportunities, GoGetScholarship has a separate collection of [UK scholarships for international students]. Explore UK Scholarships
Tips for a Strong Saïd Foundation Scholarship Application
1. Choose your master’s course carefully
Your selected programme should have a clear connection to your future career and your intended contribution to your home country or region.
2. Explain your leadership experience
The Foundation specifically considers leadership potential, so applicants should clearly describe leadership responsibilities and achievements.
3. Demonstrate community involvement
Relevant voluntary and community experience can be important because the Foundation considers applicants’ commitment to serving their communities.
4. Explain your career plan
Don’t simply explain what degree you want to study. Explain what you intend to do after completing the master’s degree.
5. Prepare references early
Three references are required, and they must be uploaded before submission.
6. Check the English-language certificate date
For 2027/28, certificates issued before 1 September 2025 will not be accepted by the Foundation.
7. Don’t leave the application until the deadline
The application deadline is 30 October 2026 at 5:00 PM UK time.
Related Scholarships on GoGetScholarship
Students researching UK scholarships can also explore:
- Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships 2027/28
- Chevening Scholarships 2027/28
- UK Scholarships for International Students
- Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
- Scholarship Application Guides
- Personal Statement & Scholarship Documents Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Saïd Foundation Scholarships 2027/28
Is the Saïd Foundation Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The Foundation states that its scholarships include tuition fees, full maintenance/living costs, an arrival allowance, visa and healthcare surcharge fees and one economy return flight.
When is the Saïd Foundation Scholarship 2027 deadline?
The application deadline is 30 October 2026 at 5:00 PM UK time.
Who can apply for the Saïd Foundation Scholarship?
The programme is targeted at eligible nationals of Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine, subject to the Foundation’s residency and other eligibility requirements.
Does the Saïd Foundation offer PhD scholarships?
No. The Foundation currently supports one-year master’s programmes and does not offer scholarships for PhD studies.
Can I apply for an undergraduate scholarship?
No. The Saïd Foundation scholarship is for master’s-level study.
Is there an age limit?
No. The Foundation states that there is no age limit for applicants.
Do I need IELTS?
You must provide evidence meeting the Foundation’s English-language requirement. IELTS Academic is accepted with a minimum overall score of 6.0 and at least 6.0 in each band, alongside other accepted tests.
How many references do I need?
Three reference letters are required. They should normally include academic, professional and voluntary-activity references.
Can I apply without a university offer?
Yes. The Foundation says you do not necessarily need to have received a university offer before submitting the scholarship application, but you should have applied to the university course if applications are open.
Can I study at Oxford or Cambridge?
The Foundation has arrangements involving Oxford and Cambridge, but applicants should check the current Foundation requirements and funding arrangements for those universities.
How to Apply for Saïd Foundation Scholarships 2027/28
Applications for the Saïd Foundation Scholarships 2027/28 are currently open.
The official application deadline is:
📅 30 October 2026
⏰ 5:00 PM UK time
Applicants should read the official eligibility and application guidance carefully before submitting their application.
Official Resources
- Saïd Foundation – Apply for a Scholarship
- Saïd Foundation – Eligibility Criteria
- Saïd Foundation – Required Documents
- Saïd Foundation – English Language Requirements
- Saïd Foundation – Scholarship Timetable
- Saïd Foundation – Scholarship FAQs
Final Word
The Saïd Foundation Scholarships 2027/28 provide a fully funded opportunity for eligible students from Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK.
Because the deadline is 30 October 2026, eligible applicants should begin preparing their university applications, English-language evidence, references and supporting documents as early as possible.
Good luck to all eligible applicants!
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| English requirements | Student studying in UK library | uk-masters-scholarship-2027.jpg | fully funded UK master's scholarship 2027 |
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