Dr Hettie Elgood Scholarship at SOAS London – Fully Funded

Dr Hettie Elgood Scholarship for Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art at SOAS University of London, UK

About the Fellowship

The Dr Hettie Elgood Scholarship offers a transformative opportunity for individuals passionate about Asian Art to pursue the SOAS-Alphawood Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art in London. Established by alumni Gretchen Welch and Ida Chow in honour of their mentor, Dr Hettie Elgood, MBE, the scholarship is aimed at supporting talented candidates who lack the financial resources to enroll in the programme. The initiative fosters academic excellence and aims to nurture future contributors to the study and promotion of Asian art through academia, curatorial work, and public engagement.

Fellowship Details

Position: Dr Hettie Elgood Scholarship
Institution: SOAS University of London
Administering Body: Department of History of Art and Archaeology
Location: London, United Kingdom
Research Field: Asian Art History
Type: Full-time, Scholarship
Duration: One academic year (29 September 2025 – 3 August 2026)
Start Date (Anticipated): September 2025
Working Hours: Full-time study required
Funding/Compensation: Full tuition fee waiver + stipend of £19,400 (paid in three instalments) to cover accommodation and living expenses
Required Degree/Diploma: Upper Second-Class Honours Degree or equivalent

Research Areas Supported

Arts of India
Arts of China
Arts of Southeast Asia or Arts of the Islamic World
Asian Art History (via Independent Study Project)
Analysing and Exploring the Arts

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Must already hold an offer of admission (conditional or unconditional) to the SOAS-Alphawood Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art
A minimum of Upper Second-Class Honours Degree or equivalent non-UK qualification/professional experience
Personal statement explaining motivation and how the scholarship will make a difference
Statement of financial need
Proof of English language proficiency by 31 July 2025 (for international students)

Preferred Qualifications:

Academic/professional references
Strong written submission on an art historical topic
Demonstrated interest in a career in Asian Art (academia, museums, art market, etc.)

Not Eligible:

Applicants wishing to pursue the online/distance learning pathway
Those already holding another major scholarship

Fellowship/Job Benefits

Full tuition fees covered
£19,400 stipend for living costs in London
Accommodation support available
Visa sponsorship may be offered as part of the SOAS admission process
Opportunity to contribute to the field of Asian Art academically or professionally

Key Responsibilities

Complete three core modules and two supporting courses in Asian Art
Submit a 1000-word writing sample or equivalent academic/professional work
Participate in in-person classes and activities in London
Maintain full-time commitment to the course
Ensure satisfactory attendance and contribution throughout the academic year

Application Process

How to Apply:

Submit the online scholarship application form once you have secured an offer for the diploma programme.
📎 Apply Online Here

Required Documents:

Application form
Personal statement
Statement of financial need
1000-word academic or professional writing sample
Two references (academic preferred; professional acceptable)
Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)

References must be emailed to Patrick Monger at:
📧 asianart@soas.ac.uk

Important Dates

Application Opens: Currently Open
Deadline: 22 June 2025 at 11:59 PM BST
Final Results Notification: 11 July 2025
Start of Fellowship: 29 September 2025

📝 Note: Scholarship applications will only be accepted from those who already hold an offer of admission. Therefore, applicants should apply for the course no later than 15 June 2025.