The Hatfield Lioness Scholarship at Durham University is a fully funded postgraduate scholarship created to support women from developing countries who are passionate about driving positive change in their communities. It is a testament to Durham’s deep commitment to gender equity, global diversity, and transformative education.
About Durham University
Durham University is one of the UK’s oldest and most prestigious universities, consistently ranked in the top 100 globally. Located in the historic city of Durham in the northeast of England — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — the university combines centuries of academic tradition with a modern, forward-thinking approach to research and teaching. It is a member of the Russell Group, the UK’s leading research-intensive universities.
About the Hatfield Lioness Scholarship
The scholarship is based at Hatfield College, one of Durham’s oldest and most distinguished residential colleges. The “Lioness” name draws inspiration from a spirit of courage, leadership, and determination — qualities that the scholarship seeks to identify and nurture in its recipients. The award is specifically designed for women who have demonstrated exceptional academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to contributing to the development of their home country upon completing their studies.
Scholarship Benefits
The Hatfield Lioness Scholarship is fully funded and includes:
- Full tuition fee coverage for the duration of the postgraduate programme
- A monthly living stipend to cover accommodation and personal expenses
- Return airfare between the recipient’s home country and the UK
- Membership of the Hatfield College community and access to college facilities and events
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Hatfield Lioness Scholarship, applicants must:
- Identify as a woman
- Be a citizen of a developing country (as defined by the OECD Development Assistance Committee list)
- Hold an outstanding undergraduate degree or its equivalent
- Have received, or be in the process of receiving, an offer of admission for a postgraduate programme at Durham University
- Demonstrate a clear commitment to using their education to benefit their home community or country
How to Apply
Applications for the Hatfield Lioness Scholarship are submitted through Durham University’s online scholarship portal. Applicants must first secure an offer of admission from Durham before applying. The scholarship application requires a personal statement, details of academic history, and a description of the applicant’s vision for how the scholarship will help her fulfil her goals.
Application deadlines are typically in February or March for September entry. Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to begin their applications early.
