Starting in 2014, the University of St Andrews was one of the first Universities in the world to offer Laidlaw Scholarships. Through the generous donation by Lord Irvine Laidlaw, and what is now the Laidlaw Foundation, they originally started as a one-year research programme with some additional training and leadership elements. Over the years, the programme has evolved and grown considerably. Today the Scholarship runs over two years and offers students two summers of projects – one focusing on research, while the second emphasises leadership in action. The leadership component of the programme has been significantly developed, and Scholars now receive bespoke leadership training throughout the full course of the programme. Scholars are now also part of an ever-expanding international network of academic institutions offering the scholarship and leadership training around the world.
The Laidlaw Scholars Programme Today
The Laidlaw Scholars Programme at the University of St Andrews uniquely funds both research and leadership development. As a Laidlaw Scholar, you will:
Receive personalised leadership training to prepare 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.
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 2,500+ extraordinary peers.
Benefit from generous funding to support all of the above.
To quote Lord Laidlaw himself, the stated aim of this challenging and amazing experience is “toequip self-motivated and ambitious undergraduate students with the knowledge and skills to become future leaders”.
