Are you a woman from a developing country with a passion for making a difference and a dream to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK? The Hatfield Lioness Scholarship at Durham University offers a fully funded academic opportunity that could transform both your life and your community.
Designed to support exceptional women who might not otherwise afford a UK education, this scholarship opens doors to world-class learning, global networks, and exciting career opportunities.
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Overview of the Hatfield Lioness Scholarship
- Host Institution: Durham University, Hatfield College
- Level of Study: Postgraduate Taught (Master’s Degree, full-time)
- Duration: 1 academic year
- Application Cycle: For the 2026–2027 academic year
- Mode of Study: On-campus (UK)
Why Choose Durham University?
Durham University is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK and the top 100 globally. Its strong academic tradition, research-driven curriculum, and vibrant college system make it one of the most prestigious destinations for postgraduate study.
Hatfield College, the sponsor of the Lioness Scholarship, is one of Durham’s oldest and most supportive colleges. Scholars become part of a diverse, close-knit academic community with full access to college resources, mentoring, and career support.
What the Scholarship Covers (Fully Funded)
The Hatfield Lioness Scholarship is one of the few postgraduate awards in the UK that offers full financial support. It includes:
- Full tuition fees (covered by Durham University)
- Accommodation in Hatfield College (private, single-room residence)
- Monthly living stipend to cover food, clothing, and day-to-day expenses
- Round-trip airfare from your home country to the UK
- Visa and immigration health surcharge fees
- UK visa application support
- Settling-in allowance and pre-arrival support
Requirements
To be eligible, you must:
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- Identify as female
- Hold a first-class undergraduate degree or its equivalent
- Be a citizen of a developing country (as defined by the UN/World Bank)
- Not having studied previously in the UK
- Hold a conditional or unconditional offer to study a full-time master’s course at Durham University (excluding MBA programs)
- Demonstrate financial need
- Show a commitment to return home and contribute to your community or country
Applicants must also meet all other academic and English language requirements set by the university.
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How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Apply to Durham University
- Choose an eligible full-time master’s program
- Submit your application via the Durham University application portal
Step 2: Receive a conditional or unconditional offer
Step 3: Apply for the Hatfield Lioness Scholarship
Once you have your offer, fill out the scholarship application form on the Hatfield College website. You will need:
- Personal statement (why you deserve the scholarship)
- Reference letters
- Academic transcript(s)
- Proof of citizenship/residency in a developing country
- Evidence of financial need
Step 4: Submit by the deadline
The 2026 application deadline is typically around March–April 2026 (official dates will be published on the Hatfield College website).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Host | Durham University (Hatfield College) |
| Degree Level | Master’s (Taught) |
| Eligibility | Women from developing countries |
| Funding | Fully funded (tuition, living, travel, visa, etc.) |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Deadline | March/April 2026 |
| Excludes | MBA, part-time, online programs |
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