The MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship 2026 provides a fully funded opportunity for experienced English language teachers and teacher educators from Ghana, Kenya, and Türkiye to pursue a part-time, online Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Funded by the British Council and administered by the University of Portsmouth, this scholarship covers full tuition and includes a two-week academic study visit to the UK, aiming to strengthen English language teaching in government education systems.
The University of Portsmouth, in partnership with the British Council, is offering 20 scholarships for the September 2026 intake of its MA TESOL (Distance Learning) programme. This initiative supports educators working in or directly with the government sector in their home countries, enabling them to gain a UK postgraduate qualification while continuing their professional roles and contributing to educational development.
MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition for the two-year MA TESOL (Distance Learning)
- Return international travel to the UK
- Living expenses for a two-week academic study visit
- Hybrid learning experience with both online and in-person components
MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Be nationals of Ghana, Kenya, or Türkiye.
- Work in or directly with the government education sector in their country.
- Focus on English language teaching.
- Secure admission to the MA TESOL (Distance Learning) programme at Portsmouth (Sept 2026).
- Meet Portsmouth’s English language requirements (via qualification or test).
How to Apply for MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship?
- Apply for a place on the 2 year part-time MA TESOL (Distance Learning) course starting in September 2026
- If accepted onto the MA TESOL (Distance Learning) course starting in September 2026, apply for a scholarship via the ‘Apply Now’ button
- If selected for a scholarship, take the relevant English language test as required by the university (unless you already hold the relevant English language qualification)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship 2026. These answers cover eligibility, application steps, English language requirements, programme structure, and contact information.
Who is eligible to apply for an MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship?
The MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship are intended for experienced teachers or teacher educators of English working in the government education sector in Ghana, Kenya, or Türkiye. Key requirements include actively working in or directly with the government sector with a focus on English language teaching, having teaching experience, meeting academic entry requirements, and demonstrating plans to contribute to English language teaching development in their country after graduation.
Do I need to have a passport in order to apply?
Applicants must be permanent residents of Ghana, Kenya or Türkiye and able to obtain a passport in time for the UK study visit in the summer of 2027. Applicants do not need to possess a passport at the time of application.
What are the application steps, deadlines, and selection process?
Applicants must first apply for the MA TESOL (Distance Learning) programme starting September 2026. Only those with a course offer can submit a scholarship application. The scholarship deadline is 30 April 2026, with outcomes by end of June 2026. Course application is advised by around 10 April to allow time for an offer before the scholarship application.
What documents and references are required for the application?
For the course application, typically degree certificates, transcripts, CV, personal statement, references, and English language proficiency score if already taken. Scans or pictures are acceptable initially. Two references are generally required, but one may suffice initially. Professional references are acceptable.
What are the English language requirements and accepted tests?
Applicants must meet the University of Portsmouth’s English language requirements. An English test certificate is not needed at the scholarship application stage; if selected, the scholarship covers the test cost. Accepted tests are listed on the university’s English language requirements webpage. CELTA is not accepted as proof.
What is the structure, duration and outcomes of the MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship?
The MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship is a part-time distance learning programme lasting up to 26 months, with students continuing to work in their home countries. The scholarship includes full tuition and a two-week UK study visit in summer 2027, covering travel, accommodation, and a stipend. The programme involves weekly online materials, tutor support, and aims to strengthen English teaching in government systems.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
Please contact [email protected] for any questions about the scholarship.
What are the ineligibility criteria for this British Council Scholarship?
Scholars are not eligible if they hold dual British citizenship; are an employee, former employee, or relative of an employee of His Majesty’s Government or the British Council; are currently receiving other UK funding; or have previously studied in the UK with UK Government or institutional scholarship funding.
What is the benefit of the MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship?
The MA TESOL Distance Learning Scholarship provides full tuition for the two-year MA TESOL (Distance Learning), return international travel to the UK, living expenses for a two-week academic study visit, and a hybrid learning experience with online and in-person components.
How many awards are available?
There are 20 scholarships available for the September 2026 intake.
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