Marshall Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Study in the UK for US Graduates 

Marshall Scholarship 2026: Overview

The Marshall Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards available to outstanding American graduates, offering the opportunity to pursue one- or two-year postgraduate degrees at leading universities in the United Kingdom. Established to strengthen UK-US relations, the program seeks future leaders, scholars, and changemakers who will contribute to improved mutual understanding between the two nations.

Applications for the 2026 Marshall Scholarship open on 12 June 2025 at 5:00 PM BST.

Marshall Scholarship 2026: Eligibility

To apply, candidates must:

• Be US citizens

• Hold an undergraduate degree from a recognised US institution (with strong academic performance)

• Apply through only one regional centre (home, employment, or place of study)

• Apply for either the one-year OR the two-year Scholarship (not both)

• Secure endorsement from their undergraduate institution (President, Provost, or Academic Dean)

Benefits

• Full funding for postgraduate study in the UK (tuition, living expenses, travel costs, etc.)

• Choice of any UK university with a wide range of eligible postgraduate courses

• Opportunity to join a prestigious network of Marshall Scholars and alumni

• Leadership, academic, and cultural development opportunities in the UK

Fellowship/Program Components

• One-Year Scholarship: Covers one full academic year at a UK university

• Two-Year Scholarship: Covers two years of postgraduate study

• Access to Marshall Partnership Scholarships, which may provide additional support or university-specific opportunities

• Interview Stage: Shortlisted applicants will attend interviews at regional centres across the US (November 2025)

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following via the Marshall online portal:

• Completed application form (through undergraduate institution)

• Three letters of recommendation

• Letter of institutional endorsement

• Personal statements and essays (as outlined in the Rules & Statements for 2026)

• Official transcripts and supporting documents

Selection Criteria

Committees are looking for candidates who demonstrate:

1. Academic Excellence – outstanding academic record and intellectual distinction

2. Leadership Potential – proven capacity to lead and inspire others

3. Ambassadorial Qualities – ability to foster a strong UK-US understanding and cultural exchange

Application Process & Deadlines

• Open Date: 12 June 2025 (5:00 PM BST)

• Applicant Submission Deadline: 16 September 2025 (5:00 PM local time of endorsing institution)

• Institutional Endorsement Deadline: 18 September 2025 (5:00 PM local time of endorsing institution)

• Interviews: November 2025

• Final Selection Announcement: Shortly after interviews

• Start of Study: October 2026

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Marshall Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Study in the UK for US Graduates