The University of York’s Centre for Applied Human Rights (CAHR) has announced applications for its 2026/27 postgraduate scholarships, offering financial support to students pursuing advanced studies in human rights.
Two scholarships worth £3,750 each are available for eligible applicants who have received either a conditional or unconditional offer to study at the Centre during the 2026/27 academic year.
The scholarships are designed to support outstanding students who demonstrate academic excellence, practical human rights experience, and a strong commitment to advancing human rights locally and globally. Applications close on 16 August 2026 at 23:59 BST.
University of York CAHR Scholarships Aim to Support Future Human Rights Leaders
The Centre for Applied Human Rights (CAHR), based at the University of York in the United Kingdom, is internationally recognised for combining academic study with practical human rights engagement. Through its annual scholarship programme, the Centre seeks to make postgraduate education more accessible while nurturing the next generation of human rights practitioners, advocates, researchers, and policymakers.
For the 2026/27 academic year, CAHR is offering two postgraduate scholarships, with one scholarship allocated to each of its flagship taught master’s programmes.
The initiative provides financial assistance to students who have already secured admission to one of the Centre’s eligible postgraduate courses.
Scholarship Value
Each successful applicant will receive a scholarship valued at:
- £3,750
The scholarship is intended to help offset the costs associated with postgraduate study at the University of York.
Eligible Programmes
Applicants must hold either a conditional or unconditional offer for one of the following postgraduate programmes:
MA in Applied Human Rights
This programme combines academic learning with practical engagement in human rights issues, preparing graduates for careers in advocacy, civil society, international organisations, and public policy.
LLM International Human Rights Law and Practice
The LLM programme equips students with advanced knowledge of international human rights law while developing practical legal skills relevant to human rights practice worldwide.
Only applicants admitted to one of these two programmes are eligible to compete for the respective scholarship.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must:
- Hold a conditional or unconditional offer for the 2026/27 academic year
- Be applying for either the MA in Applied Human Rights or the LLM International Human Rights Law and Practice
- Complete the relevant scholarship application form before the deadline
The scholarship is open to eligible applicants admitted for either full-time or part-time study.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated using three primary criteria:
- Academic promise
- Practical experience
- Commitment to human rights
The Centre aims to identify candidates who not only demonstrate strong academic potential but also have meaningful experience and dedication to advancing human rights through research, advocacy, legal practice, or community engagement.
Applicants are therefore encouraged to highlight both their academic achievements and their practical involvement in human rights-related work.
How to Apply
Eligible students must first apply for admission to one of the Centre’s postgraduate programmes and receive either a conditional or unconditional offer.
Applicants should then complete the appropriate scholarship application form corresponding to their chosen programme.
Prospective students should ensure they submit the correct form for:
- MA in Applied Human Rights
- LLM International Human Rights Law and Practice
Only completed applications submitted before the deadline will be considered.
Application Deadline
Applicants should note the following important date:
- Scholarship application deadline: 16 August 2026
- Time: 23:59 BST
Late applications are unlikely to be accepted, so candidates are encouraged to prepare and submit their materials well in advance of the closing date.
Why Apply?
The CAHR Scholarships offer more than financial assistance. Successful recipients become part of one of the United Kingdom’s leading centres dedicated to applied human rights research and education.
Benefits of studying at the Centre include:
- Financial support worth £3,750
- Access to internationally recognised human rights academics
- Opportunities to engage with practitioners and activists
- Practical learning focused on real-world human rights challenges
- Preparation for careers in international organisations, NGOs, legal practice, government, and academia
The programmes are designed to equip graduates with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to address complex human rights issues worldwide.
The Centre for Applied Human Rights at the University of York is known for its interdisciplinary approach to human rights education, combining academic excellence with practical engagement.
Its postgraduate programmes attract students from around the world who are committed to promoting justice, equality, and human dignity through research, advocacy, legal practice, and policy development.
The Centre also works closely with human rights defenders, civil society organisations, and international partners, providing students with valuable opportunities to connect theory with practice.
Final Thoughts
The University of York Centre for Applied Human Rights Scholarships 2026/27 provide an excellent opportunity for aspiring human rights professionals to receive financial support while studying at one of the UK’s leading institutions in the field.
Whether pursuing the MA in Applied Human Rights or the LLM International Human Rights Law and Practice, successful applicants will benefit from both financial assistance and access to a globally respected human rights learning environment.
Prospective students who have already secured a conditional or unconditional offer are encouraged to complete their scholarship applications before the 16 August 2026 deadline.
Key Dates at a Glance
- Scholarship value: £3,750
- Number of scholarships: Two
- Eligible programmes: MA in Applied Human Rights; LLM International Human Rights Law and Practice
- Study mode: Full-time or part-time
- Eligibility: Applicants holding a conditional or unconditional offer
- Application deadline: 16 August 2026 (23:59 BST)
Interested applicants should visit the University of York Centre for Applied Human Rights website for the scholarship application forms and further details.
