The Gibson-Sykora Postgraduate Taught Scholarship 2026 at the University of St Andrews is an excellent opportunity for academically talented Polish students who wish to pursue advanced postgraduate study in the United Kingdom. This prestigious award offers full tuition fee coverage for one academic year and additionally supports scholars who demonstrate strong academic potential and financial need. Established through philanthropic support, the scholarship aims to strengthen educational access for Polish nationals and promote academic excellence across various disciplines.
The University of St Andrews, Scotland’s oldest and one of the most respected global institutions, is committed to supporting international talent. The Gibson-Sykora Scholarship is part of this mission. It enables outstanding students from Poland to join world-class postgraduate taught or research programmes and become part of an intellectually vibrant and internationally diverse academic community.
About the University of St Andrews
Founded in 1413, the University of St Andrews is the third-oldest university in the English-speaking world and consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK. Renowned for its academic excellence, world-leading research, and rich traditions, St Andrews offers exceptional education in fields such as arts, humanities, sciences, divinity, international relations, and medicine.
The university is known for small class sizes, personalised teaching, and a strong sense of community. Its alumni network includes world leaders, Nobel Prize winners, global innovators, and well-known public figures. Students benefit not only from expert teaching but also from unique opportunities for research, leadership, and professional development.
About the Gibson-Sykora Postgraduate Scholarship
The Gibson-Sykora Scholarship (International) is specifically designed to support Polish students applying to eligible postgraduate taught (Master’s) programmes at St Andrews. As part of the University’s commitment to widening participation and supporting international scholars, the award covers:
- Full tuition fees for one academic year (MLitt, MSc, MRes, MPP programs).
- Possibility to convert the award into a maintenance grant if another funding source already covers tuition.
- Opportunity to participate in donor engagement activities, events, and academic communities.
This scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for academically gifted Polish students facing financial challenges. It not only provides financial relief but also grants access to one of the world’s top-ranked universities.
Summary of Scholarship Details
| University | University of St Andrews, Scotland |
| Study Level | Postgraduate Taught (Master’s) + some one-year Research Masters |
| Scholarship Value | Full tuition fee coverage |
| Nationality Required | Polish nationals or domiciled in Poland |
| Mode of Study | Full-time, on-campus |
| Application Starts | 17 September 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 4 February 2026 |
| Notification | Week of 23 March 2026 |
Eligible Degree Programmes
Applicants may apply to any of the following one-year postgraduate programmes, provided they meet departmental entry requirements:
- Postgraduate Taught Degrees (1-year):
- MLitt (Master of Letters) programmes across humanities and social sciences
- MSc (Master of Science) taught programmes
- MRes (Master of Research)
- MPP (Master of Public Policy)
- Eligible One-Year Research Masters:
- MSc (Res)
- MSt (Res)
- Eligible first-year funding for 2-year Research Masters:
- MPhil
- MFA (Master of Fine Arts)
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is open exclusively to Polish nationals or individuals who are officially domiciled in Poland. The award is designed to encourage Polish students to pursue advanced study abroad and contribute to academic research, leadership, and cultural exchange.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a Polish citizen or currently domiciled in Poland.
- Hold Overseas fee status (not classified as a UK student).
- Have applied for an eligible Master’s programme at St Andrews.
- Demonstrate academic excellence with strong grades.
- Show verifiable financial need.
- Provide all required supporting documents.
Note: The scholarship selection committee reviews the applicant’s academic background, financial circumstances, motivation, and references.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents while applying for the scholarship:
- Two references:
- One academic or professional
- One personal
- Official university transcripts (with English translation if required)
- Personal statement explaining financial need and academic goals
- CV or academic résumé
- Evidence of academic achievements
- Any additional documentation for students applying under sport or music excellence categories
Scholarship Application Process
Step 1: Apply for Admission
Candidates must first apply for their chosen postgraduate programme at St Andrews. Eligible degrees include MLitt, MSc, MRes, and one-year research programmes.
After submitting your application for admission, you must wait up to three working days to receive your My Application Portal login details.
Step 2: Apply for the Scholarship
Once you receive your login credentials:
- Log in to the My Application portal.
- Navigate to the Scholarships and Funding section.
- Search for:
St Leonard’s Masters Scholarship (International)
(this is the catalog listing for the Gibson-Sykora award). - Fill in the scholarship application form.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Submit your application before 4 February 2026.
Benefits of the Gibson-Sykora Scholarship
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial assistance to its recipients. Benefits include:
- Full tuition fee coverage for one academic year.
- Option for the award to be converted to a maintenance stipend if full fees are already funded by another source.
- Networking opportunities with donors, scholars, and university supporters.
- Membership in the St Andrews postgraduate community.
- Opportunity to contribute to events, reports, and academic engagements.
Important Dates
| Scholarship Opens | 17 September 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 4 February 2026 |
| Scholarship Notification | Week starting 23 March 2026 |
Why Choose St Andrews for Your Master’s Degree?
Studying at St Andrews offers:
- World-class academic teaching with global recognition.
- A rich intellectual environment built on 600+ years of academic tradition.
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
- A welcoming community of international students and scholars.
- An ancient and picturesque coastal town known for its history, culture, and academic excellence.
This scholarship significantly reduces the financial barriers to studying at one of the world’s most respected institutions, empowering Polish students to excel academically and professionally.
Final Thoughts
The University of St Andrews’ Gibson-Sykora Postgraduate Taught Scholarship 2026 is a transformative opportunity for Polish students who aspire to pursue advanced academic study in the UK. With full tuition coverage and supportive academic resources, this scholarship enables scholars to focus entirely on their academic, personal, and professional growth.
If you are a motivated and ambitious student from Poland, make sure to prepare your documents early and apply before the deadline. This scholarship could be your gateway to world-class education and an outstanding academic journey at St Andrews.
Scholarships
Gibson-Sykora Postgraduate Taught Scholarship (International) – University of St Andrews
