Fully funded international scholarships announced for 2025 A/L high scorers

Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education has introduced a prestigious fully funded overseas scholarship programme targeting high-performing students who will sit for the G.C.E. Advanced Level examination in 2025.

The initiative offers selected candidates the opportunity to pursue undergraduate degrees at internationally recognised universities and is part of the government’s broader vision under the policy framework “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life,” aimed at building a highly skilled and globally competitive workforce.

Under the scheme, between 25 and 50 students will initially be awarded scholarships for the 2026/2027 academic year. Authorities have also outlined plans to expand the programme significantly, with a target of providing up to 200 scholarships over the five-year period from 2025 to 2029.

Eligible applicants are required to apply to universities ranked within the global Top 500, based on internationally recognised rankings such as QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education rankings and the Academic Ranking of World Universities. Preference will be given to students seeking to study in emerging or specialised fields that are not widely available within Sri Lanka’s state university system, particularly areas that support economic development and sustainability.

To qualify, candidates must be Sri Lankan citizens with outstanding results at the 2025 A/L examination. Additional requirements include a minimum score of 30 percent for the Common General Paper and at least a ‘C’ grade in General English or an equivalent qualification. Applicants must also be at least 18 years old by the closing date and medically fit to study abroad.

Students must first select a suitable degree programme and university before submitting their applications through the Ministry’s official online portal. Applications will only be accepted digitally, and the deadline for submissions is 11 May 2026.

Shortlisting will be based primarily on academic performance, including all-island and district rankings. Selected candidates will then be invited for structured interviews conducted by the Ministry. Final scholarship awards will be granted only after applicants secure admission to an approved foreign university.

The scholarship package is comprehensive, covering tuition fees, a monthly allowance, medical insurance and return airfare, with a total value of up to Rs. 20 million per year. Additional financial assistance may also be available for visa processing, initial settlement expenses and English language proficiency tests, depending on eligibility.

Officials emphasised that recipients will be required to return to Sri Lanka after completing their studies and contribute to national development. The scholarships are limited to undergraduate programmes, with a maximum duration of four years, and successful candidates must sign a formal agreement.

Describing the initiative as a pathway to global education, the Ministry said the programme is designed to cultivate a new generation of professionals capable of driving innovation and long-term economic growth in Sri Lanka.

Eligible students are encouraged to apply early to take advantage of this highly competitive opportunity.