Students planning to pursue an undergraduate degree in the United Kingdom and interested in sustainability, environmental issues and leadership can apply for the Global Sustainability Leaders Scholarship 2026 at the University of Reading.
The scholarship is aimed at academically strong students who can demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability and a desire to contribute to positive environmental and social change. For the 2026/27 academic year, the University of Reading expects to offer up to 400 scholarships to eligible UK and international students.
About the Scholarship
The Global Sustainability Leaders Scholarship is an undergraduate funding opportunity offered by the University of Reading.
The programme goes beyond financial assistance. It is designed to bring together students who are passionate about sustainability and provide them with opportunities to develop their leadership, professional and environmental skills during their university studies.
Successful applicants become part of a community focused on sustainability and are encouraged to participate in activities that can help them make a positive impact.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected students can receive £6,000 per year to help cover their living and maintenance expenses while studying at the University of Reading.
The award may continue for up to four years of full-time undergraduate study, provided students continue to meet the scholarship conditions.
If a student receives the award for the full four years, the total value could reach £24,000.
The scholarship is particularly valuable for international students because the funding can help reduce some of the costs associated with living and studying in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria
The scholarship is available to students applying for eligible undergraduate programmes beginning in the 2026/27 academic year.
Both UK and international students can apply.
Applicants generally need to:
- Apply for an eligible undergraduate programme at the University of Reading
- Hold an offer to study at the university
- Be entering a foundation year or Year 1, where applicable
- Meet the required academic standard
- Demonstrate a genuine interest in sustainability
- Show potential to contribute to sustainability-related activities and initiatives
Applicants are normally expected to achieve AAA at A level or an equivalent qualification. Students who qualify for contextual offers may be considered with AAB.
Sustainability Experience Matters
Academic results are important, but the scholarship also looks at an applicant’s commitment to sustainability.
Students can demonstrate this through a variety of experiences, including:
- Volunteering
- Environmental projects
- Community initiatives
- Leadership activities
- Academic projects
- Sustainability campaigns
- Climate-related activities
- Other efforts aimed at creating positive change
Applicants should clearly explain how their previous experiences have shaped their interest in sustainability and how they hope to contribute in the future.
Additional Opportunities for Scholars
The scholarship is not limited to financial support.
Recipients can also take part in activities intended to strengthen their leadership, professional development and sustainability knowledge.
Students may have opportunities to work on sustainability projects, interact with people from different academic backgrounds, develop professional connections and take part in initiatives linked to environmental and social challenges.
The programme also encourages scholars to keep track of their development and the impact of their activities throughout their university journey.
How to Apply
Students interested in the scholarship must first apply for an eligible undergraduate course at the University of Reading.
Once the university confirms that an applicant meets the initial requirements, eligible students can proceed with the scholarship application.
The scholarship application provides an opportunity for candidates to explain their interest in sustainability, highlight relevant experiences and demonstrate why they would be a suitable Global Sustainability Leader.
Since the scholarship is competitive, simply meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection.
Application Deadline
For the 2026/27 intake, the final application deadline is 3 September 2026 at 23:59.
The university has organised the scholarship selection process into several application rounds, meaning students who missed an earlier round may still have an opportunity to apply during the final stage, provided they meet the requirements.
Applicants are encouraged to complete their applications well before the final deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
Important Requirement After Selection
Students who receive a scholarship offer must continue to meet the relevant university and scholarship conditions.
Successful applicants are required to select the University of Reading as their Firm choice through UCAS by the applicable deadline and must meet the conditions attached to their academic offer.
Therefore, students should carefully follow both the university admission process and the scholarship requirements.
Why Students May Consider This Opportunity
The scholarship offers more than financial assistance.
For students interested in environmental issues, climate action and sustainable development, it provides an opportunity to study in the UK while becoming part of a community focused on addressing major sustainability challenges.
Another advantage is that students from different academic disciplines can potentially apply. They do not necessarily have to study a degree specifically focused on sustainability; instead, they need to demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability and show how they intend to create a positive impact.
Final Thoughts
The University of Reading Global Sustainability Leaders Scholarship 2026 could be a valuable opportunity for high-achieving students who want to pursue undergraduate studies in the UK while developing their sustainability and leadership experience.
With funding of £6,000 per year for up to four years, the scholarship can provide meaningful financial support alongside professional development, networking and sustainability-focused opportunities.
Students interested in applying should first check the eligible undergraduate programmes, prepare their academic and supporting documents, and make sure their scholarship application clearly communicates their academic achievements, leadership potential and commitment to sustainability.
Official Scholarship Information: https://www.reading.ac.uk/ready-to-study/study/fees-and-funding/global-sustainability-leaders-scholarships
