The Ridgway Scholarship was set up by Dr William Ridgway with the specific purpose of enhancing and promoting cultural and academic interaction between young scholars at Evansville and their counterparts in England. It is open to young people under the age of 25 years, with preference being given to British university or college graduates, or those currently studying, or about to study at, a British university or college.

Though open to young people across Britain, preference will be given to those who normally reside in the county of Lincolnshire.

The successful scholar will study full-time at the University of Evansville in Indiana, live in university accommodation, and play a full and active part in the life of the University. They will also be expected to raise the profile of the Ridgway Scholarship and to promote Harlaxton as a unique study abroad opportunity for Evansville students.

The Ridgway Scholarship pays one international return air fare, all tuition costs, and room and board accommodation for a year of study at the University of Evansville. As a major international scholarship, the grant offsets educational costs of more than $63,000.

Dr. William Ridgway was a trustee of the University of Evansville, whose ancestors came from the East Midlands region of England. He purchased Harlaxton Manor in 1978, which was leased by the University of Evansville at the time and gave it outright to the University in 1986. Harlaxton College has been at the Manor, providing education abroad opportunities since 1971.

Applications for the 2026-2027 Ridgway Scholarship should be submitted by 5pm (GMT), March 6, 2026. 

All applications will be reviewed, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to a virtual interview on Tuesday, 17 March 2026. Following this stage, candidates will be shortlisted again, and selected applicants will be invited to attend an in-person interview on Wednesday, 1 April 2026 at Harlaxton Manor.

Due to the high volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.