What is A. G. Leventis Foundation
The A. G. Leventis Foundation was established in May 1979 by a bequest from the Cypriot entrepreneur Anastasios G. Leventis (1902‑1978). The Foundation’s mission centres on supporting society, education, culture, environmental conservation, and philanthropy. Its activity spans Europe (especially Cyprus and Greece) and parts of Africa (notably Nigeria and Ghana).
What the Foundation Does — Core Areas of Activity
The Foundation funds a variety of projects including the preservation and dissemination of Hellenic cultural heritage, restoration of monuments, support for art collections, environmental and biodiversity conservation, scientific and medical research, and philanthropic causes. In addition, it runs educational grant and scholarship programmes for higher‑education students, and in West Africa supports agricultural/vocational training via affiliated initiatives.
Educational Grants & Scholarships — What Is Covered
The Foundation’s scholarship programme provides grants for postgraduate (master’s and doctoral) students. Scholarships are awarded on a competitive, means‑ and merit‑based process. Grants typically cover part of the academic and living expenses for the academic year, though they do not always cover the full cost.
Who Can Apply — Eligibility & Application Process
Applicants must already have completed an undergraduate degree by the application deadline and must be enrolled (or intend to enroll) in a postgraduate university course. Post‑doctoral research and distance‑learning studies are excluded from the scheme. Each year, applications are accepted between March 1 and March 31. Applicants must also submit necessary documentation: prior academic transcripts, proof of admission/offer letter, research proposal (for doctoral candidates), and other required forms. Grants are not awarded retrospectively nor deferred to the next academic year if application is missed.
Selection & Success Rate
Selection emphasises academic excellence and the applicant’s financial situation. The programme is competitive: typically only about one in every eight eligible applications is successful.
Payment & Maintenance of Scholarship
If awarded, payments are usually split into two installments (often in late November and late February). To continue receiving funding, scholars must remain enrolled and meet satisfactory academic standards. Failure to provide updated registration or required documents on time may result in cancellation of the grant for that academic year.
History, Impact & Other Activities
Over its decades of operation, the Foundation has awarded thousands of scholarships across fields including humanities, social sciences, arts, natural sciences, technology, medical and business disciplines. Beyond scholarships, it supports museums, universities, research programmes, cultural heritage conservation, and environmental projects. The Foundation has also endowed chairs and professorships at major universities and funded restoration and conservation of historic monuments.
