The Green Futures Postgraduate Taught Scholarship at the University of Exeter is a prestigious and fully funded opportunity for talented students from low- and lower-middle-income countries who aspire to build careers in sustainability, renewable energy, and environmental science. The scholarship is designed for future leaders who want to contribute to global sustainability and development goals through academic excellence and innovation.
Overview of the Green Futures Scholarship
The University of Exeter established the Green Futures Scholarship to identify and support outstanding international scholars committed to environmental advancement. Each academic year, one exceptional student is selected to receive full financial sponsorship to study a one-year, campus-based master’s program within the Faculty of Environment, Science, and Economy.
The award provides complete financial coverage, allowing students to concentrate on their studies and research without financial pressure. The scholarship reflects the university’s goal of empowering future global leaders who can apply environmental knowledge to create long-term positive impact.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Green Futures Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be classified as an international student for tuition purposes.
- Hold citizenship of a low- or lower-middle-income country as defined by the World Bank (this includes Nigeria and South Africa).
- Possess or expect to obtain the equivalent of a UK first-class undergraduate degree before commencing the program.
- Have received an offer—preferably unconditional—for a qualifying master’s program at the University of Exeter beginning in September 2025.
- Have not previously studied or worked in a high-income country.
- Not be a recipient of any other major scholarship or sponsorship such as the Chevening or Commonwealth Scholarship.
In addition to these criteria, applicants must demonstrate strong academic records, genuine financial need, and a clear commitment to environmental or sustainability-related fields.
Eligible Master’s Programs
The scholarship applies exclusively to select master’s degrees within the Faculty of Environment, Science, and Economy. Eligible programs include:
- MSc Applied Data Science (Ecology & Evolution; Environment & Sustainability; Renewable Energy)
- MSc Conservation and Biodiversity
- MSc Global Sustainability Solutions
- MSc Marine and Coastal Sustainability
- MSc Renewable Energy Engineering
- MSc Sustainable Business Management
- MSc Sustainable Development
- MSc Weather and Climate Science
- MSc Geographical Information Science
- MSc Construction Design Management
- MSc Evolutionary and Behavioural Ecology
- MSc Mining Environmental Management
All eligible programs are full-time and based at one of the University of Exeter’s campuses in the United Kingdom.
What the Scholarship Covers
The Green Futures Scholarship is fully funded, ensuring complete financial support for the successful candidate. The award covers:
- Full waiver of tuition fees for the entire duration of the one-year program.
- A generous living stipend of approximately £16,500 for the academic year to cover accommodation, food, and other essential expenses.
The scholarship is valid for one academic year and is non-renewable. However, it offers recipients a world-class opportunity to develop professional skills, gain academic expertise, and engage with a global community of sustainability professionals.
How to Apply For Green Futures Scholarship 2025
Applying for the Green Futures Scholarship involves several key steps. Applicants are advised to begin early to ensure they receive an offer before the scholarship deadline.
Step 1: Apply for Admission
Apply to one of the eligible master’s programs at the University of Exeter for entry in September 2025. Ensure that all academic and English language requirements are met. Applications should be made through the university’s official postgraduate admissions portal.
Step 2: Secure an Offer
Once your application is assessed, you will receive either a conditional or unconditional offer. Preference is given to applicants holding an unconditional offer at the time of scholarship selection.
Step 3: Complete the Scholarship Application
After securing an offer, complete the Green Futures Scholarship application form available on the University of Exeter’s official funding webpage. The form includes a section for your personal statement and supporting documents.
Step 4: Write a Personal Statement
Applicants must submit a personal statement (maximum 500 words) explaining their motivation, academic background, and career goals. The statement should address the following:
- Why you chose your specific master’s program and how it aligns with your country’s sustainable development goals.
- Your previous work, research, or academic activities related to sustainability, environmental conservation, or climate change.
- Your long-term goals and how the program will help achieve them.
- How you intend to remain connected to the University of Exeter as an ambassador after graduation.
Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline
All applications and supporting documents must be submitted by 30 April 2025. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
Selection Process and Timeline
- Application Deadline: 30 April 2025
- Shortlisting: Based on eligibility, academic excellence, and quality of the personal statement.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a virtual interview.
- Final Decision: Successful applicants will be notified by mid-June 2025.
- Program Start Date: September 2025
Applicants are strongly encouraged to complete their program application well before the deadline to allow time for offer processing and scholarship consideration.
Why Choose the Green Futures Scholarship?
1. World-Class Education in Sustainability
The University of Exeter is internationally recognized for its leadership in sustainability research, renewable energy, and climate science. Students benefit from access to world-class laboratories, research centers, and experienced faculty members who are shaping environmental policy and innovation globally.
2. Complete Financial Freedom
The scholarship’s comprehensive funding ensures that scholars can focus entirely on academic and personal development. By covering both tuition and living costs, the program eliminates financial barriers that often limit access to international education.
3. Professional and Global Impact
Recipients of the Green Futures Scholarship are expected to use their education to address sustainability challenges in their home countries. Graduates often take on leadership roles in renewable energy, environmental management, sustainable business, and public policy. The university’s network also provides access to international partnerships and research opportunities.
4. Career Development and Networking
Scholars receive career guidance, mentoring, and support from the University of Exeter’s career services team. Students are encouraged to engage with industry professionals, attend workshops, and participate in sustainability forums that enhance employability and global impact.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early to secure your place in a qualifying master’s program before the scholarship deadline.
- Write a focused personal statement that highlights your passion for sustainability and clearly connects your goals with the scholarship’s objectives.
- Demonstrate leadership potential through examples of academic excellence, research, or community involvement in environmental projects.
- Show financial need convincingly by explaining how the scholarship would enable your education and future contribution.
- Secure strong references from professors or professionals who can attest to your achievements and potential for impact.
Key Facts Summary
| Scholarship Name | Green Futures Postgraduate Taught Scholarship |
|---|---|
| Host University | University of Exeter, United Kingdom |
| Study Level | Full-time One-Year Master’s Program |
| Eligible Applicants | International students from low and lower-middle-income countries (including Nigeria and South Africa) |
| Coverage | Full tuition + Living stipend (~£16,500) |
| Application Deadline | 30 April 2025 |
| Notification of Award | Mid-June 2025 |
| Program Start | September 2025 |
Final Thoughts
The Green Futures Scholarship 2025 represents a rare opportunity for academically gifted students with a passion for sustainability to study in one of the UK’s most respected universities. For students from Nigeria, South Africa, and other developing nations, it offers the financial freedom and academic platform to develop the expertise needed to lead climate and environmental initiatives globally.
By applying for this scholarship, you are not only advancing your education but also contributing to the global movement toward a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable world. Begin your journey by identifying an eligible master’s program at the University of Exeter, preparing your application materials carefully, and submitting them before the 30 April 2025 deadline.
With dedication, academic excellence, and a clear vision for environmental change, you could become one of the next Green Futures Scholars driving sustainable transformation across Africa and beyond.