The Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education has opened applications for a government-funded scholarship programme that will send high-performing students from the 2025 G.C.E. Advanced Level examination to internationally ranked universities abroad.
Launched under the policy framework “A Thriving Nation — A Beautiful Life,” the initiative will select approximately 25 to 50 students for the 2026/2027 academic year. The Ministry plans to award a total of 200 scholarships over a five-year period from 2025 to 2029.
Students from all academic streams are eligible. Priority will be given to those choosing globally emerging fields or disciplines not currently offered in Sri Lankan state universities. Applicants must select a university ranked within the top 500 on QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education Rankings, or Shanghai Rankings.
The scholarship package covers tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, health insurance, and return airfare for up to four years. Additional benefits may include visa costs, a settlement allowance, and English proficiency test fees. The annual value could reach up to Rs. 20 million per student.
Selected candidates will be required to return to Sri Lanka upon completing their studies and contribute to national development — a return bond aimed at preventing brain drain.
Applications must be submitted online through the Ministry’s portal before May 11, 2026. Candidates will be shortlisted on academic merit and called for structured interviews.
