Are you an experienced English language teacher or TESOL professional working in a low- or middle-income country and ready to take your impact to the next level? Imagine studying at a leading UK university with every major cost covered, then returning home equipped to transform English language teaching in your community. The A.S. Hornby Educational Trust Scholarship at the University of Exeter makes that possible.
This prestigious, fully funded award supports up to ten outstanding educators each year on the one-year MEd TESOL programme. Applications for September 2027 entry are open, with a firm deadline of 22 November 2026. In this guide, you will find everything you need: who can apply, exactly what the scholarship covers, step-by-step application advice, key dates, and why this opportunity stands out among fully funded TESOL masters scholarships in the UK.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host University: University of Exeter
- Scholarship Type: MSC Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: Nationals of and working in countries classified as Least Developed, Low Income, Lower Middle Income, or Upper Middle Income according to the OECD DAC list
- Scholarship Benefits: Full tuition fees, a monthly stipend to cover accommodation and living costs, and return international travel costs
- Application Deadline: 22 November 2026
Why the A.S. Hornby Educational Trust Scholarship Matters
The A.S. Hornby Educational Trust has spent decades strengthening English language teaching capacity, with a clear focus on low- and middle-income countries. In partnership with the University of Exeter’s School of Education, the Trust funds experienced teachers and related professionals who show both academic excellence and the potential to create lasting change in their home contexts.
Unlike many scholarships that simply fund study, the Hornby award is designed around impact. Scholars join a global network of English language teaching professionals, gain advanced knowledge and skills, and return home better prepared to train colleagues, improve curricula, support policy, or lead classroom innovation. Past scholars have gone on to influence teacher education, materials development, and classroom practice in their countries.
The scholarship is available only for the full MEd TESOL programme at Exeter. It is not offered for the PGCert or PGDip pathways.
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Who Can Apply for Fully Funded Hornby Scholarship at University of Exeter? Eligibility Criteria Explained
To be considered, you must meet all of the following requirements:
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- Be a resident of, and currently work in, a country listed as Least Developed, Low Income, Lower Middle Income, or Upper Middle Income on the OECD DAC list. Check the official DAC List of ODA Recipients for confirmation.
- Have a minimum of three years’ full-time TESOL teaching or related professional experience after completing your first degree.
- Hold an undergraduate degree with grades equivalent to a UK upper second-class honours (2:1) or higher, or a relevant postgraduate degree.
- Not already hold a doctoral degree in TESOL, applied linguistics, English, or a closely related field.
- Not already hold a master’s degree in TESOL, applied linguistics, English, or a related area from a UK university.
- Meet the University of Exeter’s standard admission criteria for the MEd TESOL programme.
These criteria ensure the award reaches professionals who can immediately apply new knowledge and skills upon return. Academic talent alone is not enough; demonstrated professional experience and clear potential for local impact are essential.
What Does the Fully Funded Hornby Scholarship Cover?
Successful applicants receive comprehensive support for the full duration of the one-year full-time MEd TESOL:
- Full coverage of University of Exeter tuition fees
- A monthly stipend designed to meet accommodation and living costs in Exeter
- Return international travel costs
The official award page confirms these core elements. Additional support items sometimes referenced by the Trust (such as certain visa-related or study costs in past cycles) should be verified directly with the university or Trust once shortlisted, as details can vary by year. The package is intended to remove financial barriers so scholars can focus fully on their studies and professional development.
Up to ten scholarships are available for September 2027 entry. Awards are not normally held alongside other major scholarships; if you receive another award, the Hornby offer is only retained if it is the greater value.
About the MEd TESOL Programme at the University of Exeter
The MEd TESOL is a one-year full-time (or two-year part-time) master’s designed for qualified teachers and TESOL practitioners. It combines theory and practice, covering language learning principles, analysis and teaching of language systems and skills, research methods, and a substantial dissertation or portfolio.
Students benefit from small classes, close interaction with staff, and a multicultural cohort. The programme prepares graduates for advanced classroom roles, teacher education and training, curriculum development, English for Specific Purposes, teaching young learners, or further research such as an MPhil or PhD. Career support through the university’s Career Zone includes skills training, employer connections, and guidance on international opportunities.
Studying in Exeter also places you in a historic university city with strong academic resources and easy access to professional networks in the UK ELT community, including events such as IATEFL.
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How to Apply for Fully Funded Hornby Scholarship at University of Exeter and Key Dates for the 2027 Entry
The application process is straightforward and does not require you to apply to the university first.
- Carefully read the official guidance for applicants (available via the University of Exeter scholarship page).
- Complete and submit the Hornby Scholarship application form. The current form for the 2027/28 academic year is available through the official award page.
- Shortlisted candidates are contacted with instructions to apply for the MEd TESOL programme. Scholarship awards remain conditional on receiving an offer of admission from the University of Exeter.
- Interviews take place for shortlisted applicants.
Key dates for 2027 entry:
- Application deadline: 22 November 2026 (23:59 GMT)
- Shortlist notification for interview: no later than 5 January 2027
- Interviews: between 15 and 24 February 2027
- Final outcome notification: no later than 4 March 2027
Applications are jointly considered by the University of Exeter and the Hornby Educational Trust. Prepare thoughtful responses that clearly demonstrate your teaching experience, the challenges in your local context, and how the specific MEd TESOL programme at Exeter will help you create meaningful change. Authenticity matters; the selection panel values genuine reflection over generic statements.
Useful links:
- Official scholarship page: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/funding/award/?id=5900
- Hornby Scholarship application form (linked from the official page)
- OECD DAC List of ODA Recipients
- MEd TESOL programme details: University of Exeter School of Education pages
- Hornby Trust information: https://www.hornby-trust.org.uk/ma-tesol-scholarships/
- Contact: HASS Student Recruitment & Admissions – hassenquiries@exeter.ac.uk
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Focus on impact. Explain concrete examples of your professional experience and the specific ways the programme and Hornby network will enable you to improve English language teaching or teacher development in your country. Reference the Exeter MEd TESOL structure and show you understand how its modules and research component align with your goals. Double-check that you meet every eligibility point before starting the form. Allow time for careful drafting, especially the longer reflective sections.
Why This Fully Funded TESOL Opportunity Stands Out
Competition for fully funded masters scholarships in the UK is high, yet few awards combine full financial coverage, a specialised TESOL programme at a respected university, and an explicit mission to build capacity in low- and middle-income countries. The Hornby Scholarship does exactly that. It invests in experienced professionals who will multiply their learning by training others and improving practice at home.
If you meet the criteria and feel ready to contribute more deeply to English language education in your context, this is one of the strongest opportunities available. Mark 22 November 2026 in your calendar, gather your documents, and begin preparing your application early. The next cohort of Hornby Scholars will start their journey in Exeter in September 2027—your place could be among them.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official University of Exeter award page and the Hornby Trust website. Good luck with your application.