Application guidance
We have a two-stage application process, with the exception of our secondary education programme. The Stage 1 application is designed to be short and easy to complete and you can submit this online. If this application is successful, we ask for a more detailed Stage 2 application.
To help you with your application, see our Funding FAQs and using our online application system.
Stage 1 applications
Please read our apply for funding section, the eligibility criteria for your programme and the Funding FAQs before starting your application.
Stage 2 applications
Stage 2 applications are by invitation only.
There are different requirements and deadlines for different programmes. Your invitation email will explain which programme to apply for and the contact details for your Programme Manager.
Heritage, Humanities & the Arts; Science & Medicine; Health & Disability programmes
Before applying
Your invitation to apply will specify any requirement for match funding to be in place. Match funding may include funds raised towards elements of the capital project that are not eligible for Wolfson funding (e.g. VAT). Match funding should not be for funds raised towards staff costs or core funding.
Any necessary planning permission should also be in place, unless we have agreed otherwise. If you have not yet received formal planning permission but you think it may be granted soon, please contact your Programme Manager for advice.
How to apply: Stage 2
Stage 2 applications are by invitation only. You can submit your Stage 2 application via our online system. Make sure you include the information we ask for in the Stage 2 Application Guidelines below.
- Stage 2 Application Guidelines – Heritage, Humanities & the Arts (PDF)
- Stage 2 Application Guidelines – Science & Medicine (PDF)
- Stage 2 Application Guidelines – Health & Disability (PDF)
An example of how to present your project’s financial information:
When to apply: Stage 2
We run two funding rounds each year. The key dates are:
- Round 1: Stage 2 application deadline: 1 March, Funding decision: June
- Round 2: Stage 2 application deadline: 1 September, Funding decision: December
We do not make grants retrospectively so your project must not have been completed at the time that a funding decision is made (i.e. June or December).
Unless otherwise agreed, your invitation to submit a Stage 2 application will stay open for three funding rounds. If your Stage 1 application is successful, your invitation will state the latest round in which you can submit a Stage 2 application.
Review and assessment process
We send Stage 2 applications to expert external reviewers. You will have the opportunity to respond to any questions they raise. Find out more about our application review process.
Our expert panels then consider all applications, before making recommendations to our trustees.
Secondary Education
In 2026, we are continuing with a one-stage application process for our secondary education programme. Please see the secondary schools and sixth form colleges funding page for further information.
This information does not apply to special schools, which should follow the guidance for the Health & Disability programme provided in the section above.
