Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility
Q. Is there a set of criteria that candidates must meet?
A. The Trust aims to recruit high-flying and influential young leaders who will make a substantial impact on the future development of their countries. The Fellowship Programme is open to political leaders, government or local government officials, journalists/media experts, lawyers and influential young leaders from civil society or the NGO sector. The “ideal” candidate will be aged 25-35, with a track record of concern for good governance and promoting democratic values.
Q. What level of English do applicants need in order to be accepted on the Fellowship Programme?
A. Good written and spoken English is essential. A minimum level of IELTS of 6.0 is normally needed for successful candidates. We may require you to take an IELTS test at the final stage of the selection process. This only applies to applicants who have been a) short listed for interview and b) selected by the interview panel for inclusion in our final short list. Not all finalists are required to sit a test. However, the interview panel reserves the right to require a test at their discretion. The costs of testing and associated costs are covered by the Programme budget.
Q. Do you accept candidates from countries outside the Trust’s seven fellowship countries?
A. No. The Trust can only accept applications from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russian and Ukraine.
Q. I am a citizen of one of the Fellowship countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russian and Ukraine) but I am currently living overseas – can I still apply for the Fellowship Programme?
A. The Trust recruits young leaders who will make a substantial impact on the future development of their countries. Therefore, applicants must be resident in their home country and in employment in that country.
Submitting your Application
Q. What is the deadline for applications?
A. The deadline for applications will be published on the JSMT website once the application process has opened. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted. Applications for the 2009 Programme must be submitted no later than 5 November 2008.
Q. Do I submit my application to the John Smith Memorial Trust?
A. No. Applicants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova and Ukraine must submit their applications and supporting documents to their local British Council office, in digital form, no later than the deadline. Applicants from Russia should follow the information on the following page - How to Apply - Russia
Content of your Application
For advice on how to complete your application use the following link: Advice for Applicants
After your application has been submitted
Q. When are candidates notified if there application has been successful?
A. Candidates will be notified by mid-December 2008 if they have been selected for an interview. Interviews will take place in January 2009. Those short listed for the final selection will be told in early February 2009, and the final selection will take place in mid-February.
Q. Can I apply again if my application has been unsuccessful?
A. Yes. If your application has been unsuccessful please read the Advice for Applicants page on our website and use this information to improve your application.
If you have any further questions, please contact us
