Laidlaw Scholars applications now OPEN!
What if your undergraduate research could change the world–fully funded?
Become a @Laidlaw Foundation Leadership & Research Scholar at University of St Andrews and spend 6 weeks delving into a topic you choose, one that excites you and pushes the boundaries of your imagination, while tackling the world’s most pressing challenges.
Only 25 places are available for the 2026 Laidlaw Scholars Leadership and Research Programme. This amazing opportunity uniquely funds both research and leadership development and is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders. We believe in the power of data-driven decision-making and the importance of leading with integrity.
As a Laidlaw Scholar, you will:
- Receive personalised leadership training to prepare you for tackling the world’s most pressing challenges.
- Grow as a leader in real-world situations through the Leadership-in-Action project, collaborating with communities for shared progress and long-term impact.
- Conduct a research project of your choice, under the guidance of a leading academic supervisor.
- Expand your global perspective through a meaningful international experience.
- Develop your character and master the art of ethical leadership with a certification from the University of Oxford.
- Join a global community of 3,000+ extraordinary peers.
- Benefit from generous funding to support all the above.
Undergraduate students from any School or department (barring ScotGEM/ScotCOM) who have at least two summers remaining at St Andrews at the time of application are eligible to apply.
Applications for the 2026 Laidlaw Scholars Programme will open on Monday, 3 November 2025 and close at 12 noon on Monday, 19 January 2026.
WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?
We invite interested applicants to join us at either of the following events to meet programme staff and current Scholars/supervisors and to learn more about becoming a Laidlaw Scholar:
- A Laidlaw Scholars Project Showcase will be held on Thursday, 13 November from 4:00-5:30pm at the Laidlaw Music Centre. More information can be found via this booking link.
- A Drop-in Q&A session for interested applicants will be held on Thursday, 25 November from 1:00-4:00pm in the Hebdomadar’s Block (Master’s Room). Registration not required.
We also invite you to view our website and follow us on Instagram. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected] if you have any questions. We look forward to meeting you!
Best wishes,
The St Andrews Laidlaw Team