Are you a nurse looking to advance your education but worried about the cost of postgraduate studies?

There are funding opportunities that could help you take the next step in your academic and professional journey.

From PhD fellowships to master's scholarships, these opportunities offer potential financial support for eligible applicants interested in studying in Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

Here are five postgraduate funding opportunities nurses should explore for the 2026–2027 academic year.

1. Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

Study Destination: Hong Kong
Level of Study: PhD
Funding: HK$344,400 annually, approximately US$44,150, plus an annual travel allowance.
Application Deadline: 1 December 2026.

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme supports outstanding students pursuing doctoral studies in Hong Kong. Nursing applicants who meet the eligibility requirements may be able to use this opportunity to pursue advanced research and contribute to the development of nursing knowledge and practice.

If you are interested in pursuing a PhD in Nursing or a related research area, this is an opportunity worth exploring.

How to Apply:
https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/InitApplication.jsp

2. Burdett Fellows Studentship, University of Edinburgh

Study Destination: United Kingdom
Level of Study: MSc by Research in Nursing
Funding: Tuition fees and a stipend.
Application Deadline: 19 April 2027.

The University of Edinburgh offers the Burdett Fellows Studentship for registered nurses applying for its MSc by Research in Nursing.

This opportunity may be suitable for nurses who want to develop their research skills, explore important questions in nursing practice, and build a stronger foundation for future academic or research careers.

Eligible registered nurses interested in postgraduate research should review the studentship requirements and application process.

How to Apply:
https://health.ed.ac.uk/study/scholarships-and-funding-opportunities/the-burdett-fellows-studentship

3. PhD in Nursing, University of British Columbia

Study Destination: Canada
Level of Study: PhD in Nursing
Funding: At least CAD $40,000 annually for the first four years, according to the published funding offer.
Application Deadline: 15 November 2026.

For nurses considering doctoral studies in Canada, the University of British Columbia offers a PhD in Nursing programme with a published funding offer for eligible students.

This opportunity could be particularly relevant to nurses interested in research, teaching, leadership, and contributing to the advancement of the nursing profession.

Prospective applicants should review the university's admission requirements, funding conditions, and application deadlines before applying.

How to Apply:
https://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/graduate-degree-programs/phd-nursing

4. PhD in Nursing, University of Saskatchewan

Study Destination: Canada
Level of Study: PhD in Nursing
Funding: CAD $25,000 annually for up to four years, subject to funding conditions.
Application Deadline: Applicants should confirm the current deadline with the university.

The University of Saskatchewan is another institution nurses can consider when exploring doctoral study opportunities in Canada.

Its PhD in Nursing programme may appeal to nurses who want to deepen their research expertise and contribute to evidence-based nursing practice, education, and healthcare development.

The published funding information indicates support of CAD $25,000 annually for up to four years, subject to the applicable conditions. Prospective applicants should contact the university or consult its official programme page for current admission and funding information.

How to Apply:
https://nursing.usask.ca/programs/graduate/phd.php

5. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships

Study Destination: United Kingdom
Level of Study: Master's degree
Funding: Fully funded, one-year master's study for eligible applicants in approved programmes.
Expected Application Period: The next deadline is yet to be confirmed. Mid-December 2026 is an anticipated timeframe and should not be treated as an official deadline.

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships programme supports eligible students from developing Commonwealth countries who wish to pursue selected master's programmes in the United Kingdom.

Nigerian applicants may be eligible, depending on the scholarship requirements and their chosen programme. Nurses interested in relevant health-related courses should explore the approved programmes and participating universities.

Because the application dates and eligible courses can vary by cycle, applicants should check the official scholarship website for the latest announcements before making plans.

How to Apply:
https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-shared-scholarships/

How Nurses Can Prepare for Postgraduate Funding Applications

Finding a scholarship is only one part of the process. A successful application often requires careful planning, research, and preparation.

Here are a few steps to consider:

1. Confirm your eligibility.
Review the academic qualifications, professional registration requirements, country restrictions, and other conditions for each opportunity.

2. Prepare your documents early.
Depending on the programme, you may need academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, recommendation letters, a personal statement, and evidence of English language proficiency.

3. Research your preferred programme.
Ensure that the university and programme align with your academic background, research interests, and long-term career goals.

4. Pay attention to deadlines.
Some opportunities have firm application deadlines, while others require separate applications for admission and funding. Confirm the current dates directly with the relevant institution.

5. Seek guidance when necessary.
Navigating postgraduate applications can be challenging, especially when applying to international universities. Guidance can help you understand the process, organise your documents, and prepare a stronger application.

Need Help Navigating Postgraduate Applications?

At Nursiscope, we understand that pursuing postgraduate education can feel overwhelming, particularly when you are trying to identify suitable programmes, understand funding requirements, and prepare your applications.

The Nursiscope Postgraduate Support & Mentorship Programme is designed to support nurses as they explore postgraduate education and work towards their academic and professional goals.

If you need guidance as you plan your next academic step, we invite you to explore the programme.

Apply here:
https://bit.ly/career_mentorship

Your next degree could be closer than you think. Start researching your options, prepare early, and take the next step towards your academic goals.

Nursiscope
Where Nursing Meets Innovation

LikeSave