A Powerful Partnership Transforming Teacher Education Worldwide
The collaboration between the International Baccalaureate and University of the People continues to make a meaningful impact on global education by increasing access to affordable, high-quality teacher training opportunities.
Originally launched in 2018, the partnership was created with a shared vision of making education more accessible while supporting educators in developing the skills needed to lead modern classrooms. In 2020, the initiative reached a major milestone with the introduction of its first scholarship cohort, allowing teachers from around the world to pursue a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree.
Since then, the programme has grown significantly, becoming an important pathway for educators seeking professional development, leadership opportunities, and deeper understanding of international education practices.
Expanding Educational Opportunities Across the Globe
The scholarship initiative has already awarded more than 500 scholarships to educators worldwide. Impressively, over 240 participants have successfully completed their degrees, using their new knowledge and skills to strengthen teaching, learning, and educational leadership within their schools and local communities.
The programme supports educators from diverse countries and backgrounds, making international education more inclusive and globally connected.
Many scholarship recipients come from regions where access to advanced teacher education programmes can be financially or geographically challenging. By offering flexible online learning opportunities, the partnership helps remove traditional barriers to higher education.
This approach reflects the growing importance of accessible digital learning in today’s global education landscape.
More Than a Degree: Empowering Educators and Communities
For many participants, the scholarship represents far more than an academic qualification.
Educators involved in the programme often describe the experience as life-changing, not only professionally but personally as well.
Forbewing Kevin Blaise from Cameroon explained that the opportunity gave him access, hope, and responsibility while allowing him to continue teaching and supporting his school community.
Similarly, Bianca Nunes from Brazil highlighted how the scholarship helped her overcome financial difficulties and eventually grow into the role of an IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) coordinator.
Meanwhile, Oliver Ryan Ramos from the Philippines shared how the programme deepened his understanding of the IB framework and inspired him to motivate his own students to persevere despite challenges.
These stories illustrate how teacher education can create ripple effects that extend far beyond individual classrooms.
Supporting Lifelong Learning and Educational Leadership
One of the major strengths of this scholarship programme is its focus on lifelong learning and professional growth.
Participants gain deeper knowledge in areas such as:
- Inquiry-based learning
- International education practices
- Curriculum development
- Educational leadership
- Student-centered teaching strategies
- Research-based learning approaches
These skills are increasingly important as schools worldwide adapt to rapid technological, social, and educational changes.
Additionally, educators who complete the programme often return to their schools with stronger leadership capabilities, helping improve educational quality within their institutions.
Addressing Global Teacher Shortages and Professional Development Needs
The partnership also plays an important role in addressing ongoing global challenges related to teacher recruitment, retention, and professional development.
Many education systems worldwide continue to face shortages of experienced and well-trained teachers. At the same time, educators often lack affordable opportunities to advance their qualifications while continuing to work.
The IB and University of the People scholarship programme helps solve these issues by offering flexible, accessible, and internationally recognized education pathways.
Recipients are selected based on:
- Commitment to education
- Dedication to community impact
- Alignment with IB values and pedagogy
- Potential for educational leadership
Importantly, both IB and non-IB educators are eligible to apply, along with undergraduate students seeking to pursue a Master of Education degree.
Why Online and Accessible Education Matters in 2026
In today’s increasingly digital world, flexible online education has become more important than ever.
Modern educators require continuous professional development to stay updated with evolving teaching methods, digital learning tools, and student needs. Online programmes allow teachers to balance work, personal responsibilities, and academic growth more effectively.
The partnership between the IB and University of the People demonstrates how technology-driven education models can expand opportunities for educators globally while maintaining academic quality and accessibility.
It also highlights the growing role of international collaboration in improving education systems worldwide.
Building a Stronger Future Through Teacher Empowerment
As education continues evolving, empowering teachers remains one of the most effective ways to improve student outcomes and strengthen communities.
By investing in educators, the IB and University of the People partnership contributes to:
- Better classroom learning experiences
- Improved educational leadership
- Greater global collaboration
- Increased access to quality education
- Stronger local communities
The programme demonstrates that when educators receive the right support and opportunities, they can create lasting positive change for future generations.
Who should apply?
The IB UoPeople Scholarship aims to support new or emerging educators who have not yet earned a master’s degree in an education-related field and do not have access to affordable teacher education. The following fees will be covered for our scholarship recipients:
- M.Ed. course assessment fees (needed to complete the degree)
- Transfer credit fees (if applicable)
- English preparatory course (if applicable)
- Application fees
There is no requirement to pay an application fee when applying for the scholarship. IB scholarship recipients will have sufficient time to complete the registration process before the deadline, and UoPeople will waive the application fee. See scholarship terms and conditions.
Application requirements
All applications must include the following items to be reviewed:
- Application form. Applicants will need to submit a completed application form on Submittable
- Updated resume in English
- A 3-minute video pitch (detailed instructions will be provided within the online application once it opens)
- Research paper (detailed instructions will be provided within the online application once it opens)
- Professional letter of recommendation
Late applications will not be considered. The application deadline is based on your local time as displayed on Submittable on the closing day.
The 2026 scholarship application process will open between 4 – 24 May 2026