RCPath/LabMed medical elective award
Applications are now open for the RCPath/LabMed Medical Elective Award 2026, offering medical students the opportunity to apply for funding to support an elective in clinical biochemistry.
The award forms part of the Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath) Medical Electives Scheme, which is jointly funded by RCPath and specialist societies, including LabMed. The scheme provides grants of up to £1,000 to support undergraduate medical and veterinary students undertaking clinical or research-based pathology electives in the UK or overseas. At least £500 of each award must be used towards travel and subsistence, with the remaining funding available for project-related costs where appropriate.
The LabMed award is specifically intended to support an elective relevant to clinical biochemistry, helping students gain experience in laboratory medicine and explore the specialty as a potential career.
Key dates
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Applications open: Monday 13 July 2026
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Applications close: Monday 5 October 2026
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Applications sent to specialist societies: Week beginning 12 October 2026
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Specialist society decisions returned: Monday 2 November 2026
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Award announcements: Thursday 12 November 2026
Applicants must submit their application before undertaking their elective and provide supporting documentation, including references from both their home institution and host department. Award recipients will also be asked to submit a report on their elective following its completion.
If you are planning an elective in clinical biochemistry and would like financial support to help make it possible, we encourage you to apply.
For full eligibility criteria and the application form, visit Medical Electives Scheme