You want a world-class public health Master’s in the UK without taking on debt. You care about impact, equity and leading change back home. The GSK Scholarship for Future Health Leaders can make it happen in the 2026/2027 academic year.
This fully funded award supports exceptional students to study a one-year, full-time MSc at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). You get high-impact training, a powerful global network and the credibility of one of the world’s top public health institutions. If you are committed to improving health systems and outcomes in Africa, this is your moment to step forward and lead.
Why this scholarship stands out
- Fully Funded: Covers full tuition plus a living stipend and essential study costs so you can focus on learning and impact.
- Top-tier training: LSHTM is globally respected for public health, epidemiology, tropical medicine, health policy and more.
- Career acceleration: Gain cutting-edge skills, mentorship and a network that opens doors across NGOs, governments and global health agencies.
- Impact-first: The award backs leaders who will drive measurable change in health across African communities.
Key details at a glance
| Item | Summary |
|---|---|
| Scholarship name | GSK Scholarship for Future Health Leaders |
| Provider | Funded by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), administered by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) |
| Level | Master’s (one-year, full-time) |
| Study location | London, United Kingdom |
| Academic year | 2026/2027 |
| Coverage | Full tuition fees, living stipend at LSHTM’s standard scholarship rate, and support for essential study-related costs |
| Eligible programmes | Selected one-year, full-time MSc programmes taught on-campus at LSHTM |
| Number of awards | Limited |
What the scholarship covers
The GSK Scholarship is designed to remove financial barriers. While exact amounts are set each cycle, the package typically includes:
- Full tuition fees for your eligible LSHTM MSc programme
- Tax-free living stipend at LSHTM’s standard scholarship rate to cover accommodation, food and local transport
- Essential study costs such as required course materials and approved project-related expenses
Funding is awarded for the full duration of a one-year, full-time MSc in the 2026/2027 academic year.
Who can apply
This award targets emerging leaders committed to advancing health in Africa. Check the core criteria below before you apply.
| Eligibility area | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Nationality and residence | Citizen of, and normally resident in, a country in sub-Saharan Africa |
| Offer of study | Applied for an eligible one-year, full-time MSc at LSHTM in London for 2026/2027; normally you must meet academic conditions to be considered |
| Academic background | Strong undergraduate degree or equivalent professional experience relevant to public/global health |
| Professional focus | Clear commitment to improving health outcomes and systems in Africa after graduation |
| Financial need | Unable to finance MSc study in the UK without scholarship support |
| English language | Meets LSHTM’s English language requirements for the chosen MSc (if applicable) |
| Funding status | Not concurrently holding another full scholarship covering the same costs |
Important: This scholarship is not a UK Government award and is not open to all nationalities. It specifically prioritizes applicants from sub-Saharan Africa. Always check the LSHTM page for any updated eligibility rules for 2026/2027.
Typical eligible MSc programmes at LSHTM
Eligible degrees are one-year, full-time Master’s programmes delivered on campus. Examples include areas such as Public Health, Global Health Policy, Epidemiology, Control of Infectious Diseases, Nutrition for Global Health, One Health, Health Policy Planning and Financing, and Reproductive and Sexual Health Research. Review the latest list before applying.
Documents you will need
- Completed LSHTM MSc application for 2026/2027 entry
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Up-to-date CV or résumé outlining relevant experience
- Personal statement highlighting your leadership, impact and goals for improving health in Africa
- Contact details for referees or formal reference letters as required by LSHTM
- Proof of nationality and residence in a sub-Saharan African country
- English language test results if required for your programme
- Your LSHTM application ID to link your scholarship application
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Choose your MSc: Select an eligible one-year, full-time Master’s taught on campus at LSHTM for the 2026/2027 academic year.
- Apply to LSHTM: Submit your course application and all required documents through the LSHTM application portal.
- Note your LSHTM ID: You will need your application ID to complete the scholarship form.
- Complete the GSK Scholarship form: Fill in the dedicated GSK Scholarship application on the LSHTM scholarships page, including any supplemental questions on leadership, impact and financial need.
- Submit on time: Ensure both your MSc application and the scholarship application are submitted by the stated deadline for 2026/2027.
- Track and respond: Monitor your email and LSHTM portal for updates. If shortlisted, you may be asked for additional information.
- Secure your place: If selected, follow LSHTM instructions to accept the scholarship and your offer.
Go to the official GSK Scholarship page at LSHTM
Start your LSHTM course application
Deadline for 2026/2027
Visit the official website for the current deadline.
Tip: LSHTM scholarships typically close earlier in the cycle. Apply for your MSc as early as possible in 2026, then submit the GSK Scholarship application once your programme application is in the system.
Student visa guidance for scholarship winners
If you are awarded the scholarship, LSHTM will guide you through the UK Student visa process. You will receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) once your conditions are met. Your scholarship award letter can be used as financial evidence in your visa application.
- Visa route: UK Student visa
- Work rights: Up to 20 hours per week during term time, full-time in official vacations
- Dependants: UK rules for taught Master’s dependants are restrictive. Check the latest UKVI guidance before planning to bring family members.
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Selection criteria and how to stand out
- Academic excellence: Show strong grades and rigorous preparation for postgraduate study.
- Proven commitment: Demonstrate sustained work or volunteer impact in health across African settings.
- Leadership potential: Highlight moments you led teams, shaped policy or improved services.
- Clear goals: Explain how specific LSHTM modules, labs and mentors align with your plan to deliver measurable change after graduation.
- Financial need: Be transparent about why this fully funded award is essential for you to study.
Winning personal statement tips
- Open with a concise story of impact that proves your motivation and values.
- Map your past experience to LSHTM’s strengths and the modules you will take.
- Quantify results where possible: people reached, clinics improved, policies influenced.
- Outline a realistic plan for post-degree impact in Africa within three to five years.
- Keep it focused, evidence-based and authentic. Avoid generic claims.
Frequently asked questions
Is the GSK Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers full tuition and provides a living stipend at LSHTM’s standard scholarship rate, plus support for essential study-related costs.
Who funds and administers this award?
The scholarship is funded by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and administered by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. It is not a UK Government scholarship.
Can applicants from outside sub-Saharan Africa apply?
The scholarship prioritizes citizens who are normally resident in sub-Saharan African countries. If you do not meet this, review other LSHTM scholarships that match your profile.
Are distance learning or part-time programmes eligible?
No. The award is for one-year, full-time Master’s programmes taught on campus in London.
Can I hold this with another full scholarship?
Normally no. You cannot combine overlapping full awards that cover the same costs. If in doubt, ask LSHTM before proceeding.
When will results be announced?
Timelines vary by cycle. Shortlisted candidates are notified after the scholarship deadline. Check your email and the LSHTM portal regularly.
Ready to apply?
If you are driven to transform health in Africa, this Fully Funded Master’s is your springboard. Secure your LSHTM course application for 2026/2027, then complete the GSK Scholarship form early. Spots are limited. Apply now and take the next bold step in your public health leadership journey.






