The Scottish Episcopal Church (SEC) invites applications for its International Scholarships Programme. These scholarships are open to applicants from the Global South, aimed at building and strengthening relationships within the Anglican Communion.
The PhD scholarships in Divinity, Theology, and Religious Studies have been developed by the Global Partnerships Committee of the SEC. Each scholarship lasts for up to three years and must be undertaken in Scotland, at a Scottish university.
As well as strengthening ties within the Communion, it is envisaged that the programme of financial support for students will assist theological research and encourage theological discourse. Successful candidates will also act as ambassadors of their local church and engage with the theological community, including the Scottish Episcopal Institute.
As part of their integration into the local SEC community, scholars will also be mentored during their studies.
Successful candidates will be active members of an Anglican Church in the Global South – which covers the regions of Africa, Asia, Caribbean, Central and South America, Middle East and Pacific – who have been offered a place on a relevant PhD programme at a university in Scotland. The Scottish Episcopal Church will offer financial support of up to £15,000 per year to assist with living costs, with the funding designed to complement other grants or awards.
“The Global Partnerships Committee is pleased to announce this scholarship, which forms a key part of its ongoing commitment to strengthening international relationships,” said the Rev Dr Hamilton Inbadas, Convener of the Global Partnerships Committee.
“This scholarship is a significant expression of our renewed strategic focus on relationship-building and mutual learning within the Anglican Communion. We seek applicants who will bring a rich diversity of cultural, theological, and ecclesial experience, thereby contributing to and enriching the life of the Scottish Episcopal Church. At the same time, scholars will be supported in their integration into Scottish life and the wider ministry of the Church. Through this initiative, we aim to deepen mutual understanding and renew strong, lasting partnerships with our global partners.”
Applications close on 31 March 2026, with recipients notified by 1 May 2026. Supporting documents, including references and a letter from the applicant’s bishop, are required.
The application pack and further details can be found here:
Dr Inbadas recorded the following short video as an introduction to the scholarships:
