Under the patronage of the late HRH Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands and to pay a lasting tribute to the Founder President of WWF and The 1001: A Nature Trust, the Prince Bernhard Scholarship Fund for Nature Conservation was created in 1991 to help build conservation expertise and leadership in the developing world.

With the generous support of The 1001: A Nature Trust, the aim of the WWF Prince Bernhard Scholarships is to provide financial support to individuals who wish to pursue short-term professional training or formal studies that will help them contribute more effectively to conservation efforts in their country. Each scholarship empowers a dedicated conservationist to build his or her capacity. In turn, these people are in a position to share the benefits of their knowledge and skills with others and so spread the benefits.

Who should apply?
As a priority, the PBS support mid-career training (up to a maximum of one year) for individuals working in the field of conservation or associated disciplines directly relevant to the delivery and promotion of conservation. Applications from candidates doing multiple-year studies will only be considered if the applicant is applying for support for the last year of studies.

Applications are encouraged from people seeking to build skills in specific subjects that will enhance their contribution to nature conservation. In particular, women and people working for non-governmental or community-based organizations are encouraged to apply.

Only nationals from Africa/Madagascar, Asia/Pacific, Latin America & Carribean, Eastern Europe & Middle East will be considered, including WWF staff or candidates working as partners with WWF. Preference is given to those who seek support for studies in their country or region and provide proof that they are also seeking funding from other sources. Applicants must provide written proof of acceptance on a course.

How to Apply
Applications  should be submitted to the candidate's nearest WWF Office or Associate and the deadline for submission is mid-January of each year. Download the application form clicking this link:  pbs_info___application_form_english.doc

Each WWF Office or Associate carries out an initial screening of the applications they have received to make their recommendations to the PBS selection committee, which meets in April each year. Only those applications recommended by a WWF Office or Associate will be considered.

Amounts Awarded
The maximum amount for any one scholarship under this scheme is CHF 10,000, and preferential consideration is given to requests for less than CHF 10,000. 

WWF's Expectations
After completion of their studies Prince Bernhard Scholars are expected to return to their home country or region to work in conservation, or a related field. Moreover, the course should have a direct link to WWF’s Biodiversity and Footprint Goals. See below the brochure 'acting as one ...from ambition to action' - WWF's compelling conservation agenda.
 

If accepted, and upon completion of the course, the PBS scholar must provide a final report on the activity undertaken and how it was conducted, with an itemized account of the use made of the funds.

For more details please visit: http://wwf.panda.org/how_you_can_help/volunteer/prince_bernhard_scholarships/

Scholarships information for Nepalese Candidates