The Global Sustainability Leaders Scholarship is a competitive undergraduate funding programme designed for students who want to study at the University of Reading and build skills in sustainability leadership.
The scholarship is part of the university’s wider focus on climate education and interdisciplinary learning. It supports both UK and international students who begin their undergraduate studies in the 2026/27 academic year.
WhatsApp ChannelAbout the Global Sustainability Leaders Scholarship
The scholarship is an annual funding and development programme that combines financial support with structured training in sustainability-related fields.
Each year, the University of Reading selects high-achieving students who demonstrate academic ability and an interest in sustainability challenges.
Key features include:
- Up to 400 scholarships are awarded annually
- Open to all undergraduate subject areas
- Focus on sustainability leadership and climate awareness
- Integrated development programme across the degree duration
The initiative is designed to connect academic study with real-world environmental and social challenges.
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Scholarship value
Selected students receive:
- £6,000 per year
- Funding for up to 4 years of study
- Financial support intended for living and maintenance costs
Over a full degree, total support can reach £24,000 depending on course length.
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Eligibility criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold an offer for an undergraduate programme at the University of Reading
- Enter the foundation year or Year 1 in 2026/27
- Be a UK or international fee-paying student
- Achieve AAA at A-level or equivalent qualifications
- AAB is accepted for contextual offers
Only eligible offer holders are invited to apply directly to the university.
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Application process and deadlines
The scholarship follows a staged application system. Students cannot apply independently without an invitation.
Application steps
- Apply for a degree at the University of Reading
- Receive an offer
- Receive an invitation to apply for the scholarship
- Submit the scholarship application form
Application rounds
- Round 1: 20 March 2026
- Round 2: 12 June 2026
- Round 3: 3 September 2026
All deadlines close at 23:59 UK time.
Programme structure and development activities
The scholarship includes a structured learning and development pathway focused on sustainability.
Year 1
Students begin with introductory sustainability learning, including:
- Online course on climate action and sustainability
- Cross-disciplinary lecture series
- Early-stage sustainability engagement activities
Year 2
The programme focuses on applied learning:
- Leadership training sessions
- Group sustainability challenge projects
- Workshops with academic and industry input
Year 3
Students engage in independent and advanced work:
- Sustainability-focused dissertation or capstone project
- Networking and scholar community events
Skills development and opportunities
Scholars gain access to additional academic and professional opportunities, including:
- Sustainability and climate-focused training
- Mentoring and career guidance
- Internship and volunteering opportunities
- Networking with industry professionals
- Participation in university sustainability initiatives
The programme supports long-term academic and career development in sustainability-related fields.
Selection criteria
Selection is based on more than academic performance. The university also considers:
- Interest in sustainability issues
- Academic achievement and potential
- Motivation for leadership development
- Ability to contribute to a diverse scholar community
Why the scholarship matters
The Global Sustainability Leaders Scholarship reflects a growing focus on sustainability education in UK universities. It is designed to support students who want to connect their degree studies with environmental awareness and long-term global challenges.
The programme also builds a structured pathway for students interested in careers in climate policy, environmental science, business sustainability, and social impact roles.
Application status
Applications for the 2026 intake are currently open for eligible offer holders.
Students interested in the programme must first secure admission to an undergraduate course at the University of Reading before being invited to apply.
