The University of St Andrews has officially opened the application period for its prestigious International Excellence Scholarship 2026, aimed at high-achieving overseas students beginning their undergraduate studies in the 2026 academic session.
The award is one of the university’s flagship opportunities for international students, designed to recognize outstanding academic talent and leadership potential. Successful recipients will also serve as Student Ambassadors, engaging in outreach activities and representing the university at various events.
Scholarship Value and Duration
The value and number of awards will be announced by December 2025. The scholarship is renewable annually for the full duration of the undergraduate program, provided recipients continue to meet the academic and participation requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
The scholarship is available to students who:
- Hold an Overseas fee status.
- Are applying for a full-time undergraduate program at St Andrews beginning in 2026.
- Are not applying to the Medicine program or the BA International Honors joint degree with William & Mary.
- Have applied to any eligible subject area, including Arts, Sciences, Social Sciences, and Business.
Applications are open only to new entrants in their first year of undergraduate study (including direct entry into year two). Students transferring from another institution are not eligible.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- An online scholarship application via the International Undergraduate Scholarships portal.
- A Statement of Motivation (up to 2000 characters), outlining academic achievements, reasons for applying, and expected contributions to the St Andrews community.
- Two references: one academic and one personal (non-family member), each no longer than 250 words.
The Selection Committee will assess applications based on academic merit, achievements, and personal motivation.
Application Timeline
The application period for the University of St Andrews International Excellence Scholarship 2026 will open on Monday, 1 September 2025, and close on Wednesday, 28 January 2026. Applicants will be notified of the results in the week commencing Monday, 16 March 2026.