Hatfield Lioness Scholarship Grant at Durham University 2025: Fully Funded for Women

Hatfield Lioness Scholarship Grant 2025: Empowering Women from Developing Countries

Are you a woman from a developing country dreaming of a postgraduate degree in the UK? The Hatfield Lioness Scholarship at Durham University offers a fully funded opportunity to transform your future and impact your community. This prestigious award supports exceptional women with world-class education and global networks. Here’s your guide to securing it in 2025.

Overview of the Hatfield Lioness Scholarship

Launched in 2018 to celebrate 30 years of women at Hatfield College, the scholarship empowers female students from developing countries where access to higher education is limited. It supports one outstanding candidate annually to pursue a full-time taught master’s degree at Durham University.

• Host: Durham University, Hatfield College
• Level: Postgraduate Taught (Master’s)
• Duration: 1 academic year
• Mode: On-campus (UK)
• Application Cycle: 2025–2026

Why Choose Durham University?

Durham University ranks among the UK’s top 10 and the world’s top 100 universities (QS World Rankings, 2025). Its research-driven programs and vibrant college system, including Hatfield College, offer:

• Academic excellence: World-class faculty and resources.
• Supportive community: Hatfield College provides mentorship and networking.
• Career opportunities: 93% graduate employment rate (Durham University, 2024).

What the Scholarship Covers

This fully funded scholarship eliminates financial barriers, covering:

• Full tuition fees: For any taught master’s program (excluding MBA, PhD, and research master’s).
• Accommodation: Single room at Hatfield College, fully funded (self-catered or catered).
• Living stipend: Monthly payments for food, clothing, and expenses (~£1,000/month, ~$1,300 USD).
• Travel costs: One return economy airfare from your home country to the UK, plus travel to Durham.
• Visa & health surcharge: Covers UK visa and NHS fees.
• Settling-in allowance: One-time payment for initial expenses.

Restrictions: No funding for dependents or additional travel during the program. Accommodation is for the scholar only.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, you must:

• Identify as female.
• Be a citizen of a developing country, including: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and others (full list at Durham’s Scholarship Page).
• Hold a first-class undergraduate degree (or equivalent).
• Not have previously studied in the UK.
• Have a conditional or unconditional offer for a full-time taught master’s at Durham (excluding MBA).
• Demonstrate financial need and lack of means to study in the UK.
• Commit to returning home to contribute to your community.
• Meet English proficiency requirements (e.g., IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 92+).
• Not hold another scholarship for postgraduate studies.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to apply for the 2025 Hatfield Lioness Scholarship:

1. Apply to Durham University:
   • Choose a full-time taught master’s program (e.g., MSc in Sustainable Development, MA in International Relations).
   • Submit your application via Durham’s Application Portal by June 2026.
   • Include transcripts, references, and proof of English proficiency.
2. Receive an Offer: Secure a conditional or unconditional offer from Durham.
3. Apply for the Scholarship:
   • Complete the Hatfield Lioness Scholarship application form (available on Hatfield College’s website).
   • Submit supporting documents to hatfield.development@durham.ac.uk, including:
     • Durham offer letter.
     • Personal statement (explain why you deserve the scholarship and your goals).
     • Academic transcripts.
     • Two reference letters.
     • Proof of citizenship (e.g., passport).
     • Evidence of financial need.
     • IELTS/TOEFL certificate (if required).
4. Meet the Deadline: Submit by March 31, 2026. Results announced by mid-June 2026.

Tips to Boost Your Application

Stand out with these strategies:

• Tailor your statement: Highlight your commitment to impacting your home country, e.g., using your degree to address local challenges like education or healthcare.
• Choose strong referees: Select mentors who can vouch for your academic and leadership skills.
• Apply early: Submit well before the March 31, 2026, deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
• Showcase leadership: Detail community projects, like organizing women’s empowerment initiatives.
• Proofread: Ensure your application is error-free and professional.

Why It’s Worth It

The Hatfield Lioness Scholarship covers costs worth over £30,000 (~$39,000 USD), including tuition (£20,000–£30,000), living expenses, and travel. You’ll study at a top-tier university, join a supportive community at Hatfield College, and gain skills to drive change in your home country. With only one award available annually, it’s competitive but transformative. Apply now via Hatfield College’s Scholarship Page!