Apply for the 2026 BMJ Clegg Scholarship
Are you interested in how a medical journal is run? Would you like insight into how to get published and gain experience in creating engaging content? If so, then apply for The 2026 BMJ Student Clegg Scholarship!
The BMJ is looking for four students, who are studying medicine within the UK or ROI, to spend 16 days with us between March and May 2026. We welcome students at any stage of medical school, including those who want to join us as part of their medical elective. The scholarship will primarily take place virtually, but there may also be the opportunity to spend time in The BMJ office in London. Clegg Scholars receive a grant of £1200 and certificates will be provided for your portfolio, upon completion of the scholarship.
As a Clegg scholar, you will learn more about The BMJ and BMJ Student by meeting members of the team, learning about different article sections, and getting involved in the running of the
journal.
There’s a variety of opportunities to explore and chances to get involved, such as:
* Pitching article ideas, writing, editing and researching content aimed at students.
* Creating social media and multimedia content for our channels.
* Virtually attending and reporting from press conferences or performing interviews.
We are looking for candidates who are motivated, familiar with The BMJ and BMJ Student, and full of great ideas. Experience with writing or editing may be beneficial, however, we welcome all applicants irrespective of previous experience.
As this is predominantly a virtual placement, we will not be reimbursing travel or accommodation.
At The BMJ we take equal opportunities seriously; diversity and inclusion are more than just words, they are an organisational priority. We strongly encourage applications from under-represented groups, and we are a Disability Confident Committed employer.
Views from previous Clegg scholars
Audrey McBride - 2025 Clegg Scholar
The Clegg scholarship has been an absolute highlight of my time at medical school. The team at the BMJ was generous and enthusiastic, involving us in the diverse range of activities that it undertakes. It was fascinating to see the inner and outer workings of a world-leading journal and a privilege to meet so many talented and engaged people, whose contagious energy has reinspired my passions for writing, research and critical thinking. I am so grateful to the individuals that supported us throughout the scholarship and would urge anybody considering it to take the leap and apply - there is something for everyone and everyone is welcome.
Korianne Muya - 2025 Clegg Scholar
I found my experience as a Clegg Scholar really insightful. It opened my eyes to the many different ways you can get involved with a medical journal, from more traditional content to areas such as social media, meaning there is something for everyone. I particularly appreciated how much autonomy I had to shape my time at BMJ around my interests, while also being encouraged to explore areas I may not have initially considered. Overall, it’s a scheme I would highly recommend, even if only out of curiosity.
Elgan Manton-Roseblade - 2025 Clegg Scholar
My Clegg Scholarship in 2025 was a fantastic experience all round. It’s unique to be able to access and work within a global medical journal as a student, so I would thoroughly recommend applying. The scholarship is very flexible and you can craft your time with the BMJ to suit your interests. I was also able to continue engaging with the journal after my formal scholarship ended. If you have an interest that combines medical writing and research, I think the Clegg Scholarship is a fantastic way to meaningfully explore and develop it.
To Apply:
Please send the following in one document:
* A covering letter (maximum 400 words) stating why you would be suitable for the position. Please make clear the dates between March and May 2026 that you are available, which medical school you are attending, and which year you are in.
* Your CV (maximum 2 pages).
* An article you’ve written, aimed at students, in the style of BMJ Opinion on a topic you would want to publish if you were a Clegg scholar. Please refer to the BMJ Student guidelines for authors and BMJ Opinion guidelines, for writing your article.
Please send any questions to the current editorial scholar, Zaynah Khan (zaynah.khan@bmj.com).
The closing date for applications is 11.59pm on Wednesday 14 January 2026. We will interview shortlisted candidates by video call in February 2026.