The SOAS University of London has officially opened applications for the highly prestigious Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship 2026, a fully funded master’s scholarship designed for outstanding students interested in Zoroastrianism and related interdisciplinary studies.
The Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship provides full tuition coverage and a maintenance stipend for one year, making it one of the most competitive and valuable scholarships currently available for students pursuing studies in religion, culture, politics, history, linguistics, and regional studies.
Funded through the Shapoorji Pallonji endowment for Zoroastrian Studies, the scholarship supports academically excellent students from around the world who are passionate about exploring the historical, cultural, and contemporary relevance of Zoroastrianism through diverse academic perspectives.
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About the Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship
The Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship is hosted by the SOAS Shapoorji Pallonji Institute of Zoroastrian Studies at SOAS University of London. The award is available to students beginning eligible full-time taught master’s programmes during the 2026/27 academic session.
This scholarship is specifically aimed at students who wish to engage deeply with Zoroastrian Studies while benefiting from the globally respected academic environment at SOAS.
Successful applicants will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- A maintenance stipend for living expenses
- Access to world-class academic resources and faculty
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary research and learning
- Exposure to global academic and professional networks
The programme encourages innovative academic engagement with Zoroastrianism while connecting it to broader studies in society, politics, religion, anthropology, and culture.
Eligible Master’s Programmes
Applicants for the Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship can apply for any of the following one-year full-time master’s programmes:
- MA Iranian Studies
- MA Religion, Politics and Society
- MA South Asian Area Studies
- MA Middle Eastern Studies
Students selected for the scholarship will also complete:
- A compulsory 60-credit dissertation focused on Zoroastrianism
- The 30-credit module:
“Zoroastrianism, Historical and Contemporary Perspectives”
In addition, students may choose optional language studies such as Avestan language modules to strengthen their academic specialization.
Scholarship Benefits
One major reason the Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship stands out is the extensive financial and academic support it offers.
1. Full Tuition Coverage
The scholarship fully covers tuition fees for the selected master’s programme at SOAS University of London.
2. Living Expenses Support
Recipients also receive a maintenance stipend to help with accommodation, transportation, feeding, and other living costs in London.
3. Academic Excellence and Research Exposure
Students gain access to internationally respected scholars, specialized academic mentorship, and advanced research opportunities in areas such as:
- Religious studies
- Anthropology
- Linguistics
- Historical studies
- Cultural studies
- Middle Eastern studies
- South Asian studies
4. International Recognition
Studying at SOAS offers students global exposure and valuable networking opportunities with researchers and professionals across multiple disciplines.
Eligibility Requirements
The Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship is open to both domestic and international students from any country.
To qualify, applicants should:
- Hold or expect to obtain a first-class honours degree from a UK university or its international equivalent
- Demonstrate strong academic performance through transcripts and references
- Apply for an eligible master’s programme at SOAS
- Meet all English language requirements where applicable
Applicants with a strong 2:1 degree classification may still be considered, although preference is generally given to candidates with first-class academic achievements.
Important Admission Information
Applicants should note the following important conditions:
- You do not need to secure admission before submitting your scholarship application.
- However, applicants must receive an unconditional admission offer before the scholarship selection panel meets.
- English language conditions must also be satisfied before final scholarship consideration.
Because admission processing may take up to four weeks under normal conditions — and as long as six weeks during busy periods — applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.
Late or incomplete scholarship applications will not be accepted.
Application Deadline
Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship Deadline:
29 May 2026 (12 noon UK local time)
Applicants are advised to complete both their programme application and scholarship application well before the deadline to avoid delays.
How to Apply for the Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship
Step 1: Apply for an Eligible Programme
Candidates must first submit an application for one of the approved master’s programmes at SOAS University of London.
Step 2: Access the Scholarship Application
After applying for admission, candidates can log into the SOAS admissions portal and complete the scholarship application form.
Applicants who cannot access the scholarship section should carefully confirm that they meet all eligibility requirements.
Interested candidates can apply through the official application portal HERE.
Click HERE for more information about the Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship.
Conclusion
The Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship 2026 presents an exceptional opportunity for students seeking fully funded postgraduate education in the fields of religion, history, politics, culture, and regional studies. With full tuition coverage, living support, and access to one of the world’s leading institutions for interdisciplinary humanities research, the scholarship offers an excellent pathway for future scholars and professionals.
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