Application Deadline: 2 March 2026
The Felix Non-Indian Scholarship at SOAS University of London is a prestigious and fully funded postgraduate award designed to support exceptional students from selected developing and conflict-affected countries. Beginning in September 2026, this scholarship enables academically outstanding individuals who face significant financial barriers to pursue advanced studies at one of the world’s leading institutions for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
SOAS University of London is internationally renowned for its focus on global development, social justice, languages, politics, law, economics, and cultural studies. Through the Felix Scholarship, talented students are given the opportunity not only to gain a world-class education but also to develop the skills, networks, and knowledge necessary to contribute meaningfully to the development of their home countries.
About the Felix Scholarship
The Felix Scholarship was established to provide access to higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds who demonstrate exceptional academic merit, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to social impact. The Non-Indian Felix Scholarship is specifically targeted at students from selected non-Indian developing countries who would otherwise be unable to afford postgraduate study in the United Kingdom.
This scholarship is highly competitive and awarded on the basis of academic excellence, financial need, and commitment to returning home after completion of studies. Scholars are expected to use their education to address critical challenges in their countries, including governance, economic development, education, healthcare, human rights, and peacebuilding.
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Who the Scholarship Is For
The Felix Non-Indian Scholarship is intended for nationals of the following countries:
- Afghanistan
- Syria
- Iran
- Iraq
- Palestine (West Bank and Gaza)
Applicants must be residing in their home country at the time of application. The scholarship prioritizes individuals who have had limited opportunities for international education due to economic hardship, political instability, or conflict.
This award is ideal for students who:
- Have an outstanding academic track record
- Come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds
- Demonstrate resilience and leadership potential
- Are committed to using their education for positive change in their home country
What the Scholarship Covers
The Felix Non-Indian Scholarship is fully funded, removing most financial barriers associated with studying in the UK. The award includes:
- Full tuition fees for the entire duration of the programme
- A generous living allowance to cover accommodation, food, and other essential living expenses in London
- One return economy airfare from the scholar’s home country to the United Kingdom
However, it is important to note that the scholarship does not cover pre-sessional English language courses. Applicants must therefore already meet SOAS English language requirements at the time of admission.
Eligible Programmes at SOAS
The scholarship supports a wide range of academic disciplines offered at SOAS University of London.
Eligible Study Options:
- Any full-time taught Master’s programme
- Any full-time PhD programme
Not Eligible:
- Part-time programmes
- Distance learning or online programmes
Applicants are encouraged to choose programmes aligned with development, policy, social sciences, law, economics, languages, culture, international relations, or other fields where their training can have long-term impact in their home countries.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Felix Non-Indian Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
Academic Requirements
- For Master’s applicants: Hold (or be on track to obtain) a first-class Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- For PhD applicants: Hold a first-class Master’s degree or equivalent
Additional Conditions
Applicants must:
- Demonstrate clear and genuine financial need
- Not have studied outside their home country for one year or more
- Be resident in their home country at the time of application
- Commit to returning to their home country after completing their studies
- Submit a complete application for admission to SOAS University of London by the relevant deadline
Meeting the minimum eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection, as the scholarship is extremely competitive.
Selection Criteria
The Felix Scholarship selection committee assesses applicants based on:
- Academic excellence and intellectual ability
- Financial circumstances and need
- Personal statement and motivation
- Commitment to social responsibility and national development
- Long-term impact of the proposed course of study
Strong applicants clearly articulate how their chosen programme aligns with their career goals and how they plan to apply their knowledge and skills to benefit their home country after graduation.
How to Apply
The application process for the Felix Non-Indian Scholarship involves two main steps:
- Apply for admission to SOAS University of London
- Choose an eligible full-time Master’s or PhD programme
- Submit all required academic documents, references, and personal statements
- Apply for the Felix Non-Indian Scholarship
- Complete the scholarship application through SOAS
- Provide detailed information on financial circumstances and background
Applicants must ensure that both applications are completed before the deadline. Apply now
Key Dates
- Scholarship Application Deadline: 2 March 2026
- Programme Start Date: September 2026
Early application is strongly recommended, as admissions and scholarship decisions are highly competitive.
Why Study at SOAS with a Felix Scholarship?
Being a Felix Scholar at SOAS offers more than financial support. Scholars become part of an intellectually vibrant, multicultural community in the heart of London. They gain access to world-class academics, cutting-edge research, global networks, and professional development opportunities that extend far beyond graduation.
For students from conflict-affected and developing regions, the Felix Non-Indian Scholarship represents a life-changing opportunity to acquire advanced education, build global connections, and return home equipped to drive meaningful and lasting change.