The Charles Wallace India Trust (CWIT) Scholarships support early- to mid-career Indian professionals in arts, heritage conservation, and the humanities who wish to pursue short-term research, professional development, or doctoral/post-doctoral study in the UK. These scholarships are aimed at enhancing skills, gaining international exposure, and contributing meaningfully to India’s cultural landscape. In addition to that, individuals also get to broaden their international contacts.
The Charles Wallace Trust scholarships are exceedingly competitive. Each year the panel has a tedious job of identifying the people who will benefit most from them. These scholarships are specifically for artist and heritage professionals between 28 and 38. The goal of these scholarships is to enable individuals to gain experience in their chosen fields through postgraduate studies at a UK university. Read on to know more about eligibility, process, and tips to get the Charles Wallace India trust scholarships.
Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships Overview
Following an agreement between the British and Indian governments in 1981, the Charles Wallace India Trust was formed. It is an English charity run by four trustees. Over the last 40 years, CWIT has made over 3000 grants. Every year the trust offers seven long term awards to artists from various disciplines. However, it can vary with the demand. CWIT tends to favor individuals who wish to pursue one-year postgraduate UK courses outside London.
Who are these Scholarships Named after?
These scholarships are named after Charles Wallace, the renowned Shaw Wallace company owner. He was born in 1855 in Calcutta, India and founded the Shaw Wallace Company. He left this world in 1916, leaving a ton of fortune for his family. His business investments in India and South Africa were exceedingly profitable. He believed that his modest fortune should benefit the individuals among whom he’d made it.
What All Does the Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships Include?
The scholarship offers different types of awards depending on the applicant’s field and purpose of study. Broadly, CWIT provides:
- Fully funded fellowships (typically 2 to 3 months long)
- Doctoral and post-doctoral research grants
- Grants for short-term professional visits or residencies
- Support for attending UK-based workshops, conferences, or training programs
Each award typically covers:
- International airfare (economy class)
- Accommodation allowance
- A monthly stipend for living expenses
- Institutional fees (in select cases or as a part of negotiated agreements)
The exact coverage depends on the type of award and host institution.
Note: Grantee is expected to cover their own travel cost within India. Moreover, they have to obtain their IELTS certificate and arrange their travel and medical insurance.
Eligibility Criteria for Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships
Here are the requirements that every individual must go through before applying for the CWIT scholarships.
- Be an Indian citizen residing within the country
- Should not have received a CWIT scholarship within the last five years
- Be aged between 25 and 45 years old
- Hold a first degree, diploma, or professional qualification in their specialization
- Have working knowledge of English
- Demonstrate professional experience and achievements in your field
- Have a clear plan for your UK visit and how it will benefit your work in India
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Fields of Study included in the Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships
The Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships cover the following Arts and Heritage Conservation fields of study:
Arts
- Performing Arts (Music, Dance, Drama, Direction, Theatre)
- Photography & Media
- Visual Arts
- Curating
- Design (Except Architecture)
- Film (including direction and scriptwriting)
- Art History
- Creative writing & literature
Heritage Conservation
- Museology and Conversation
- Management of heritage sites or projects
- Conservation of landscapes
- Management of museums and collection
- Conservation Architecture
- Conversation of special materials (timber, metal, photographs, paintings, stone, and film)
- Management of museums
It is not open to science, engineering, or business-related fields.
How to Apply for Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships
Wondering what is the process to apply for the CWIT scholarships? Read on to know the application process.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Choose the right award category
- Visit the CWIT section on the British Council India website to explore current opportunities (which vary year to year)
- Prepare your documents
- Updated CV
- Portfolio (for creative professionals)
- Statement of Purpose / Project Proposal that clearly states which course they intend to follow, what they plan on doing in the UK, and how they plan on using the information on coming back to India
- Invitation or acceptance letter from a UK institution (if applicable)
- Two letters of reference
- Passport size photograph
- Proof of educational qualifications
- Apply online
- Submit your application via the portal or email as specified in the official call for applications
- In-person or Virtual Interview (if shortlisted)
- Final selection and offer
Timeline:
- September – December: Applications typically open depending on the award type
- February – Interviews at British Council in New Delhi
- April – Results of the interviews are announced and selected individuals receive a CWIT scholarship offer via email
Tips to Get the Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships
- Tailor your project proposal to reflect how the UK opportunity directly benefits your long-term goals and India’s creative/heritage sector
- Choose a credible UK institution or mentor – CWIT looks for quality collaborations
- Keep your CV and portfolio updated, highlighting relevant achievements
- Show commitment to working in India after the scholarship – your impact back home matters
- Apply early and triple-check your documents – incomplete applications are a common reason for rejection
- Put much thought into your statement of purpose before submitting it. Selectors want to know what you intend to do with the grant and how it’ll be beneficial for you. So leave no stone unturned while writing your SOP.
Conclusion
CWIT or Charles Wallace India Trust offers scholarships to Indians in the early to middle stages of their careers. These are granted to individuals currently working/studying in the Arts or Heritage Conservation industries. Their goal is to help people achieve their artistic, academic, and professional ambitions. Moreover, Indian nationals can broaden their international contacts while residing in the United Kingdom. The Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships cover the tuition fee, accommodation, and living expenses of an individual. Individuals also receive 6000 Pound Sterling as an international travel fee. Apart from such long-term scholarships, Charles Wallace Trusts also provides fellowship grants for short research and visiting fellowships. For further information on CWIT scholarships, book your free counselling session on LeapScholar today!
FAQs
Do I need any particular qualifications to apply for the Charles Wallace India Trust scholarships?
CWIT scholarships are granted to Indians in the early to middle stages of careers in the Art or Heritage Conservation field. So either you must be employed in either of these fields or have a graduation degree/diploma in them.
How do I get the Charles Wallace scholarship?
In order to get the Charles Wallace scholarship, you must go through the eligibility criteria first. If you meet the criteria, you can start working on your application (primarily SOP) and preparing relevant documents for the same.
How many individuals get the Charles Wallace scholarship annually?
The Charles Wallace India Trust grants seven to nine scholarships annually to Indians in the field of Art or Heritage Conservation who’re either studying or have significant work experience.
Is there a minimum age required to apply for CWIT scholarships?
Yes, there is. The applicant must be at least 25 years old and shouldn’t be older than 45.
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