Unlock Saïd Foundation Scholarships for MENA students: eligibility, funding, application steps for UK master’s. Ideal for Syrians, Lebanese—apply by Oct 2025!
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Saïd Foundation Scholarships
Discover the Saïd Foundation Scholarships, a premier opportunity for talented students from the MENA region to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK. These fully funded awards target nationals from Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine, empowering them with world-class education to drive positive change back home. If you’re seeking scholarships for Syrians or scholarships for Lebanese, this program stands out for its focus on leadership and community impact.
Eligibility & Deadlines
To qualify for the Saïd Foundation Scholarships, applicants must be nationals of Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, or Palestine and intend to return to their home country or the wider Levant region after studies. You need an undergraduate degree with excellent academic performance, proficiency in English (meeting UK university requirements), and demonstrated leadership potential. The program supports one-year master’s degrees at partner UK universities like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and others. There’s no subject restriction, but your chosen field must contribute to your home country’s development—ideal for those eyeing UK scholarships for MENA or postgraduate scholarships MENA.
Applications for the 2026/27 academic year opened on August 1, 2025, and close at 5 PM UK time on October 31, 2025. Late submissions aren’t accepted, so start early. You must also secure a conditional or unconditional offer from a partner university by the scholarship deadline. For scholarships for Syrians or scholarships for Lebanese, priority is given to those showing commitment to regional challenges.
- Key Eligibility Points:
- Age: Typically under 35, but exceptions possible.
- Work Experience: At least two years preferred in relevant fields.
- Not for PhDs, undergraduates, or non-UK studies.
Check the official site for full criteria.
Funding Breakdown
The Saïd Foundation Scholarships are fully funded, covering tuition fees, living expenses, economy flights to/from the UK, visa fees, healthcare surcharges, and an arrival allowance. While exact stipend amounts vary by location (around £1,200–£1,500 monthly for living costs), the package ensures scholars focus on studies without financial worry. For some universities, costs are shared—e.g., Imperial covers 20% of tuition, with the Foundation handling the rest.
To highlight value, here’s a comparison table with similar UK scholarships for MENA students:
| Scholarship | Coverage | Eligibility Focus | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saïd Foundation Scholarships | Full tuition, living costs (£1,200–£1,500/month), flights, visa, health | MENA nationals (Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine); leadership-oriented | £30,000–£50,000 total (varies by course/university) |
| Chevening Scholarships | Full tuition, stipend (£1,200–£1,600/month), flights, visa, insurance | Emerging leaders worldwide, including MENA; work experience required | £35,000–£45,000 total |
| Aziz Foundation Scholarships | 100% tuition fees only (no living costs) | British Muslims; community activism emphasis | Up to £20,000 (tuition-focused) |
This table shows how Saïd offers comprehensive support, rivaling Chevening but with a targeted MENA lens—perfect for postgraduate scholarships MENA.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Applying for Saïd Foundation Scholarships requires preparation, but following these steps can boost your chances. As a first-hand tip from Syrian alumna Itab Azzam, who won the 2025 Alumni Achievement Prize: “The scholarship transformed my ability to contribute to the Levant—focus on how your studies align with regional needs.”
- Research and Prepare: Identify a one-year master’s at a partner university (list at scholarships.ae/uk-partner-universities). Ensure your course fits your career goals and home country’s development.
- Apply to University: Submit your application to the chosen UK university separately. Deadlines vary (often December–January), so aim for early offers.
- Complete Online Form: Register at the Saïd portal and fill the application by October 31, 2025. Include personal details, academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS/TOEFL), CV, and references.
- Write Statements: Craft a compelling personal statement (500–1,000 words) on leadership, career plans, and impact. Explain subject choice’s relevance.
- Submit and Interview: Upload documents; shortlisted candidates attend interviews (virtual/in-person) in early 2026.
- Accept Offer: If selected, confirm by spring 2026; prepare for visa via Scholarships.ae/visa-guide-mena.
Jordanian alum Hala Raed shares: “The year I spent in Leeds changed the way I see things… it revolutionized my perspectives.” Use such inspiration to personalize your app.
FAQ
- Who is eligible for Saïd Foundation Scholarships? Nationals of Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, or Palestine with strong academics and leadership potential. Must pursue a UK master’s contributing to home country.
- What are the application deadlines? Opens August 1, closes October 31, 2025, for 2026/27 intake.
- Does it cover family members? No, scholarships are for individuals only; no dependents funded.
- Can I study any subject? Yes, but demonstrate its benefit to MENA development, like in scholarships for Syrians focusing on reconstruction.
- How competitive is it? Highly; about 20–30 awards annually from hundreds of applicants. Strong statements and references key.
- What if my university isn’t a partner? Possible if course unavailable elsewhere, but justify in application.
Don’t miss out on UK scholarships for MENA—explore more at scholarships.ae.
Applications for 2026/27 Saïd Foundation scholarships are now open. Please click below to start your application:
Apply
Applications will close at 5pm UK time on Friday 31st October.
For an overview of our scholarships programme please go to About our scholarships.
In this section you can find guidance on applying for a Saïd Foundation scholarship, including information on:
Please read through this information carefully before starting an application to find out if you are eligible and to help you prepare your application. If you have questions after reading through this guidance, you may find the answer in our Frequently Asked Questions.
In conclusion, the Saïd Foundation Scholarships offer a life-changing path for ambitious MENA youth to gain skills and networks in the UK. With full funding and alumni success stories, it’s your gateway to impact. Subscribe for personalised alerts on scholarships.ae/subscribe to stay updated on deadlines and tips.
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