Eligibility

Does the GF provide grants for GAP year projects or summer/voluntary programmes?
No.
The GF does, however, provide grants to some short-term projects that are part of longer courses and/or supported by an organisation.

Does the GF provide grants for primary or secondary school students?
No.
The GF is only able to consider candidates who have a Bachelor's degree or equivalent.

Does the GF provide grants for applicants who are living outside the UK?
Yes.
The GF considers applicants living in all countries.

Does the GF provide grants for applicants who are studying outside the UK?
Yes.
The GF considers applicants studying in all countries.

Does the GF provide grants for applicants who have no link with the UK or Japan?
Yes.
The Gen Foundation considers applications even if there is no link with Japan as long as applicants are studying the relevant subjects: natural sciences, in particular food sciences/technology.

Does the GF provide grants for applicants who are studying subjects other than the ones listed?
No.
However, if an applicant is studying for a course that does not fall under the natural sciences but pursuing a module and/or project within the course that focuses on the natural sciences, they would be eligible to apply.

Does the GF provide grants for applicants who are not enrolled at universities?
Yes.
In order to be eligible to apply applicants must have at least a conditional offer from an academic institution or have backing from an organisation to pursue a project.

Does the GF provide grants for applicants who already have a grant from other charities or foundations?
Yes.
The Gen Foundation considers applications even if the applicant has already been awarded a grant elsewhere.

Does the GF provide grants for applicants who have applied to the GF previously?
Yes.
The Gen Foundation considers applications from past applicants, regardless of whether or not they were successful.

Does the GF provide grants for group applicants?
No.
The GF is only able to accept applications from individual students and/or researchers.


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Application Form

Does the GF accept a handwritten application form?
No.
Only typed application forms will be accepted and those that are handwritten will not be considered.  Should an applicant be unable to type their application for any reason, their reason should be explained in a cover letter and the form completed in legible handwriting.

Does the GF accept photocopied or scanned references?
No.
Both references must be signed originals, on headed paper.  If the candidate is unable to provide original references at the time of submitting their application form, they may arrange for the references to be sent directly to us.  This should be indicated clearly on page 4 of the application form.

Does the GF accept an application after deadline?
No.
Applications should arrive no later than deadline.

Does the GF accept supporting documentation after deadline?
No.
In normal circumstances we cannot accept any submissions after deadline, however should the applicant's place of study not issue an acceptance letter until after that date, the candidate may submit a conditional letter in the meantime and post the acceptance letter when available.  This should be indicated clearly on page 4 of the application form.

Does the GF accept applications by e-mail?
No.
Application forms must be original hard copies.  The only documentation that may be submitted by e-mail are acceptance letters, however this should also be submitted as hard copies where possible.

Does the GF accept an application form completed in a language other than English?
No.
Application forms must be completed in English.  References may be in Japanese but no other languages are accepted.

Does the GF accept references from personal referees?
No.
References should be provided by professionals, preferably by those who are familiar with your abilities in the subject field in which you are applying for funding.

When is an application form available to download?
An application form is available to download between the dates 1st November 2023 and 29th February 2024.


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Interview Process

Do applicants have to be in the UK to attend an interview?
No.
If shortlisted candidates are unable to attend an interview in the UK we can arrange for a telephone interview.  Those travelling in the UK will have their travel costs reimbursed.


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Grants

How much are the grants awarded?
The amount of each grant is based on the merits of each application, and is set at the Trustees' discretion.  Previous grants have ranged between £500 - £5,000.

How is the grant paid?
Grants are usually paid in Sterling Pounds by cheque, if in the UK.  We can arrange wire transfers for successful candidates residing outside of the UK.

When will the grant be awarded?
Grants will be awarded to successful candidates in September.  Please refer to the section 'Schedule' for the application schedule.

How and when will applicants be notified of their results?
Applicants will be informed in writing whether or not they have been shortlisted around end of May.  Interviews for shortlisted candidates will run in June, then successful candidates will be notified of the final result and grants awarded in September.  This is summarised in the section 'Schedule'.

Is there anything to do after being awarded the grant?
Yes.
All successful candidates are required to submit a report to the Trustees at the end of their studies.


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