Staff Scholarship Scheme

General information about the University’s staff scholarships can be found below. Please read this alongside the USG-specific information to ensure you fully understand the process.

Each year University Secretary’s Group (USG) sets aside a sum to contribute to the cost of certain scholarships or study programmes. All staff currently employed within USG, including its business units, are eligible to apply but should note that these awards are competitive - applications will be reviewed by a selection panel.

Eligibility and criteria

Scholarships are available to support employees who wish to study part-time (usually at the University of Edinburgh) or undertake professional qualifications.

Each scholarship provides a contribution to staff studies up to the full cost of tuition fees. The application form asks applicants to confirm that they are content to be considered for partial funding of their tuition. Awards will not cover other costs such as bench fees, programme costs, research costs, examination fees, matriculation fees or continuation fees. 

Candidates may only submit one application for a USG Staff Scholarship Award in any one year. Applicants will need to highlight, for the consideration of the selection panel, the benefits the applicant and USG will derive from the course of study or qualification.

Applying

• The deadline to apply for funding for the 2026-27 academic year is Friday 17 July 2026.
• Interested USG staff must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
• Before applying USG staff must have received an offer of admission for part-time postgraduate study at the University of Edinburgh (or in exceptional circumstances elsewhere).
• Applications are to be submitted via Microsoft form as linked below.  Your Head of Department must also complete a supporting statement via Microsoft form.

Applicant information and application form

Application form: Apply for a Staff Scholarship here (complete Microsoft form)

Head of department information and supporting statement

Supporting statement: Provide a supporting statement - Head of Department (complete Microsoft form)