What Is the Hornby Trust Scholarship?
The Hornby Trust Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded award designed specifically to support English language teaching (ELT) professionals from low- and middle-income countries. Administered in partnership with the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom, this scholarship reflects A.S. Hornby’s lifelong commitment to improving English language education globally. If you are an ELT practitioner looking to advance your skills and contribute to your home country’s educational development, this opportunity could be transformative.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
This is a genuinely comprehensive funding package — not a partial award that leaves scholars scrambling for additional support. The University of Exeter Hornby Trust Scholarship covers the following:
- Full tuition fees for your postgraduate programme at the University of Exeter
- A generous living stipend of at least £15,500 to cover accommodation and day-to-day living expenses in the UK
- Return international travel costs from your home country to the UK
This means successful scholars can focus entirely on their studies and professional development without the financial burden that typically accompanies international study in the UK.
Who Is This Scholarship For?
The Hornby Trust Scholarship prioritises capacity building for English language teaching in low- and middle-income countries. This signals a very specific ideal candidate profile. You are likely a strong applicant if you:
- Are a practicing English language teacher or ELT professional in a low- or middle-income country
- Have a genuine commitment to returning to your home country and contributing to its English language education sector after completing your studies
- Are applying for a postgraduate (Master’s level) programme related to English language teaching or applied linguistics at the University of Exeter
- Can demonstrate leadership potential or a track record of impact within your educational community
Because the scholarship is tied to the Hornby Trust’s development mission, preference is strongly given to candidates who can show how their studies will create a measurable ripple effect back in their home country — not just personal career advancement.
About the University of Exeter
The University of Exeter is a globally respected Russell Group university based in the south-west of England. It consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK and is particularly well regarded for its programmes in education, humanities, and social sciences. Studying there gives Hornby scholars access to world-class faculty, research resources, and a vibrant international student community — an ideal environment for ELT professionals looking to deepen both their theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.
How to Apply
The application process for the Hornby Trust Scholarship typically involves two key steps: first, securing admission to a relevant postgraduate programme at the University of Exeter, and second, completing the Hornby Trust Scholarship application. It is essential to apply for university admission early, as scholarship consideration is usually linked to your programme application. You will likely need to submit a personal statement that clearly articulates your ELT background, your vision for using the degree to improve English language education in your home country, and your leadership or community impact experience. Supporting documents such as academic transcripts, references, and proof of English language proficiency will also be required.
Deadlines and Key Dates
Specific deadlines for the 2027 intake have not yet been fully published, but Hornby Trust Scholarships historically follow the University of Exeter’s postgraduate admissions cycle. Given the competitive nature of this award, it is strongly advised to begin preparing your application materials well in advance — ideally 6 to 12 months before the expected deadline. Check the official scholarship page regularly for the most up-to-date information on opening dates and submission windows.
Final Thoughts
The Hornby Trust Scholarship at the University of Exeter is one of the most targeted and well-funded opportunities available for ELT professionals in developing countries. It is not just a scholarship — it is an investment in the future of English language education in your community. If you have the dedication, the teaching background, and the vision to make a difference, this award is worth every effort you put into your application.
Ready to apply? Visit the official page here: Apply Now
