University of St Andrews International Excellence Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Undergraduate Award for Overseas Students

University of St Andrews International Excellence Scholarship 2026: Overview

The International Excellence Scholarship 2026 at the University of St Andrews, Scotland, is open to high-achieving overseas (non-UK) undergraduate students beginning their studies in 2026.

This prestigious award recognises students with outstanding academic excellence and requires recipients to act as Student Ambassadors, representing the University at events and outreach activities.

Eligibility

• Study Level: Undergraduate (first-year entry, including direct entry to year two).

• Fee Status: Overseas (international students).

• Subject Areas: Available across a wide range of schools, including:

  • Arts, Humanities, Sciences, Social Sciences, Computer Science, Business, Psychology, International Relations, and more.

  • ❌ Excludes: Medicine and BA International Honours joint degree with William & Mary.

• Mode of Study: Full-time or part-time (daytime study only).

• Applicant Status: Must be a new entrant; transfers from other institutions are not eligible.

• Must demonstrate academic excellence and a willingness to serve as a Student Ambassador.

Benefits

• Annual scholarship award (exact value and number of awards confirmed by December 2025).

• Renewable each year for the duration of the undergraduate programme.

• Recognition as an International Excellence Scholar at one of the UK’s top universities.

Fellowship/Program Components

• Student Ambassador Scheme participation – assisting with outreach, admissions events, and student engagement activities.

• Opportunities to contribute to the University community while developing leadership and communication skills.

Application Requirements

• Application form via the International Undergraduate Scholarships application system (accessible after applying to study at St Andrews).

• References:

  • One academic reference (max 250 words).

  • One personal reference (max 250 words, from someone who knows you well but is not a family member).

• Statement of Motivation (max 2000 characters) addressing:

  • Reasons for applying.

  • Expected benefits from the scholarship.

  • Contribution to the University community.

  • Academic achievements, prizes, or experiences demonstrating excellence.

Selection Criteria

• Proven academic merit and achievements.

• Strong motivation statement showing potential contributions to the University community.

• Quality and strength of references.

• Personal qualities aligned with the University’s values and ambassador role.

Application Process & Deadlines

• Applications open: Monday, 1 September 2025

• Applications close: Wednesday, 28 January 2026

• Notification date: Week commencing Monday, 16 March 2026

• How to apply:

  1. Submit an application for an undergraduate course at St Andrews (entry 2026).

  2. Wait at least two working days for login details to the My Application portal.

  3. Complete the scholarship application via the Scholarships and Funding catalogue.

  4. Upload references (or arrange for referees to email them directly to ugscholarships@st-andrews.ac.uk before the deadline).

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the University of St Andrews International Excellence Scholarship 2026