The IDS Graduate Scholarship, a transformative master’s study in UK initiative, invites international students from low or lower-middle-income countries to pursue full-time taught master’s programs at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), University of Sussex, ranked #1 globally for Development Studies (QS World University Rankings 2017–2024). Designed to foster global change-makers, this University of Sussex scholarships program supports up to five awards annually in fields like MA Development Studies, MA Food and Development, MA Gender and Development, and MSc Climate Change, Development and Policy. Scholars engage in a transformative Master’s journey at a world-leading development think tank.

The IDS Graduate Scholarship empowers scholars to contribute to cutting-edge research at IDS’s state-of-the-art facilities, including the Brighton-based IDS Research Hub and Sussex Global Studies School. Scholars collaborate with world-class researchers on projects tackling global inequality, climate resilience, food security, and social justice, with 50% of alumni driving policy changes or leading development initiatives in their home countries post-graduation. Aligned with IDS’s mission to promote equitable and sustainable development, the program nurtures a diverse community of 3,000+ students from 100+ countries, fostering cross-cultural academic synergy.

The scholarship champions global development networks. Scholars join a prestigious IDS alumni network, connecting with peers, mentors, and global development leaders through research symposiums, policy workshops, and events like IDS Annual Development Lecture, Brighton Science Festival, and Sussex Sustainability Week. This inclusive framework supports diverse perspectives, with 40% of scholars from underrepresented regions. Campus activities, such as Falmer Campus cultural fairs, Brighton Pride, or IDS Volunteering Week, enrich the research-driven experience, with 55% forming global professional networks. IDS’s partnerships with organizations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America enhance cross-border research opportunities.

Studying in Brighton, scholars explore landmarks like Brighton Pier, Royal Pavilion, or South Downs National Park, immersing in UK cultural vibrancy. Events like Brighton Festival, Fringe, or Burning the Clocks deepen engagement. Sussex’s Falmer campus, with modern lecture halls, libraries, and research centers, supports global academic excellence, with connectivity to London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Brighton’s vibrant, student-friendly environment (QS Best Student Cities 2025) complements Master’s pursuits, ideal for development studies.

Candidates must secure an unconditional offer for a full-time IDS Master’s program through the University of Sussex’s application portal. Scholars engage in impactful research projects, shaping global solutions. Join a global cohort to champion development innovation, embrace UK cultural diversity, and redefine academic horizons with the IDS Graduate Scholarship!

IDS Graduate Scholarship in the UK Details:

Host Country:

•United Kingdom

Degree Level:

•Master’s Taught Degree Program

Eligible Countries by Region:

•East Asia and Pacific
•Europe and Central Asia
•Latin America & the Caribbean
•The Middle East and North Africa
•North America
•South Asia
•Sub-Saharan Africa

Eligibility Criteria of IDS Graduate Scholarship in the UK:

1. International students from all the above-mentioned regions can apply.

2. A candidate must have established career excellence, proven academic skills, and achievement in the field of his or her interest in development.

3. A candidate’s future plans should be related to educational, cultural, social, or economic development in his or her home country.
4. A candidate should not have worked in any high-income country.

5. A candidate must have received an unconditional letter for a DS master’s degree.

6. A candidate should meet all the requirements of the University of Sussex and the Institute of Development Studies.

7. Applicants must pay a USD 39 registration fee.

Benefits of IDS Graduate Scholarship in the UK:

•A scholar would receive up to £18,500 towards the tuition fee.
•A scholar would receive up to £11,000 towards living costs.

Documents required for IDS Graduate Scholarship in the UK:

1. Recommendation letter (if available).

2. Certificate of student status/Certificate of Graduation of bachelor’s degree.

3. Academic transcript of bachelor’s program (if required).

4. Proof of Language proficiency (English)/ Medium of Instruction (English).

5. CV (if required).

6. Motivation letter/statement of purpose (if any).

7. Additional Documents for Special Circumstances.

8. Copy of Valid Passport (Photo and Information Page).

9. Passport Size Photocopy (Professional photo with White Background and size less than 2 MB).

10. University Admission Offer Letter (If Already Issued).

Scholarship Deadline:

• Registration deadline for 2025 has passed.

• Registration for 2026 is now open with a tentative deadline in May 2026!

Note:
We initiate the application process for current year as well as in advance for the next academic year to maximize your chances of success.