British Council English and School Education Scholarships Scheme
The British Council is funding a new international scholarships scheme in collaboration with the University of Portsmouth, aimed at strengthening English language teaching in government school systems in Türkiye.
The scheme will award up to 7 fully funded scholarships to experienced teachers and teacher educators from Türkiye to undertake a part-time, online master’s qualification in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages [MA TESOL (Distance Learning)] while continuing to work in their home countries. Each scholarship covers full tuition, along with return travel and living expenses for a bespoke two-week academic study visit to the UK.
A key desired outcome of the scholarships is that the scholars will make a significant contribution to the development of English language teaching in their home countries. The programme is designed to support teacher development and leadership, strengthen classroom practice, and improve learning outcomes by providing access to world-class academic expertise and international professional networks.
Scholars will commence their studies in September 2026 on flexible, part-time programmes lasting up to 26 months. The course will be delivered entirely online and include a two-week study visit to the UK, enabling in-person academic collaboration, professional networking and cultural exchange.
Participants will benefit from access to leading UK university faculty, specialist learning resources and professional mentoring, alongside opportunities to build expertise in teacher development and education leadership. On completion, scholars will join the British Council’s global alumni network, supporting continued professional learning and collaboration worldwide.
Key dates
- Information webinar: 5 March 2026, 14:00-15:00 UK time. Register here
- Scholarship applications close: 30 April 2026
- Online study begins: September 2026
How to apply
The first step is to apply for a place on the MA TESOL (Distance Learning) course.
Once you receive an offer from the University of Portsmouth, submit your scholarship application.
Please note that scholarship applications can only be submitted after securing a place on the master’s course. If accepted onto a master’s course but not selected for a scholarship, there is no obligation to take the course.
University of Portsmouth MA TESOL (Distance Learning) course. Apply or enquire via: https://www.port.ac.uk/tesol-dl-scholarships-2026
* Please consult the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) regulations on diploma equivalency for up-to-date information regarding distance learning programmes.