LISD–WASD Humanitarian and Merit Scholarship Scheme

The LISD–WASD Humanitarian and Merit Scholarship Scheme is established to support academically outstanding students from countries affected by war, humanitarian crises, climate-related disasters, violence, and underdevelopment. The scholarship reflects the joint commitment of the London Institute of Skills Development (LISD) and the World Association for Sustainable Development (WASD) to promote equitable access to higher education and empower future global leaders from disadvantaged regions.

Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis to applicants who demonstrate exceptional academic merit, verified professional achievement (where applicable), and genuine need arising from adverse national or regional circumstances.

Applicants must satisfy all the following requirements:

• Be a national of, or ordinarily resident in, a country classified by LISD/WASD as affected by one or more of the following:
• Armed conflict or war
• Humanitarian crisis
• Climate-related disaster or severe environmental vulnerability
• Widespread violence or political instability
• Significant underdevelopment or economic hardship
• Hold a recognised undergraduate degree (or equivalent qualification) with a minimum overall score of 75% or above, or an equivalent classification recognised as Distinction under UK higher education standards.
• Demonstrate an excellent overall academic record throughout prior studies.
• Hold an offer of admission to an eligible LISD programme.
• Submit all required supporting documentation within the specified deadline.

Applicants must provide the following:

1. Academic Transcripts and Certificates
   • Official copies of all relevant academic qualifications and transcripts.
2. University Recommendation Letter
   • A formal recommendation letter from a university professor or academic referee attesting to the applicant’s academic excellence, character, and suitability for postgraduate study.
3. Government Verification Letter
   • A letter from a government employee, public official, or authorised governmental authority verifying the applicant’s identity, nationality/residency, and supporting the authenticity of submitted credentials.
4. Employment/Experience Letter (if applicable)
   • Verified by the employing organisation and confirming the applicant’s professional role, responsibilities, and duration of employment.
5. Personal Statement
   • A written statement outlining:
   • The applicant’s academic/professional achievements
   • Their reasons for applying
   • How the scholarship will support their future goals
   • The impact of conditions in their home country/region on their educational opportunities

The scholarship may provide one or more of the following, subject to availability of funds and approval:

• Partial tuition fee reduction
• Full tuition fee waiver
• Learning support resources
• Additional academic mentoring opportunities

1. Competitive Award Process

Scholarships are awarded solely on merit and eligibility. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee an award.

2. Verification of Documents

All submitted documentation will be subject to verification. LISD/WASD reserves the right to:

• Request original documents at any stage
• Conduct independent verification with issuing institutions/employers
• Reject applications containing false, misleading, or unverifiable information

3. Academic Performance Requirement

Recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress throughout their studies. Failure to meet progression requirements may result in withdrawal of scholarship support.

4. Conduct and Professional Behaviour

Scholarship recipients are expected to uphold the academic and professional standards of LISD and WASD. Misconduct may lead to immediate termination of the scholarship.

5. Non-Transferability

• Are non-transferable
• Cannot be deferred to another intake unless expressly approved in writing
• Cannot be exchanged for cash or other financial benefit

6. Funding Limitations

Scholarships are subject to annual funding availability and institutional discretion.

7. Additional Costs

Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the scholarship does not cover:

• Visa fees
• Travel costs
• Accommodation
• Living expenses
• Insurance
• Study materials
• Optional training or extracurricular activities

8. Publicity and Promotion

Recipients may be invited to participate in promotional activities, testimonials, interviews, or case studies for LISD/WASD scholarship promotion, subject to consent.

9. Final Decision

All scholarship decisions made by LISD/WASD are final and not subject to appeal.

The scholarship is awarded for one academic year only and applies solely to the approved period of study for that year.

Continuation, renewal, or extension beyond the awarded academic year is not automatic and is subject to:

• A new scholarship application and reassessment by LISD/WASD
• Satisfactory academic progression
• Continued compliance with all scholarship terms and conditions
• Ongoing availability of scholarship funding