The LEAP standalone module pathway provides eligible MSF staff with the opportunity to study one online postgraduate module (up to a maximum of two). Candidates are permitted to study one module per academic year.
Candidates who complete a standalone module may have the opportunity to progress to one of the longer pathways. To do this, you must apply through your OC’s standard application process. Please note that studying a standalone module does not guarantee a place on the full programme, so bear this in mind before applying.
Standalone modules are open to all MSF staff who are seeking further development in their current area of work, with the aim of strengthening their professional profile and performance.
Candidates will be selected based on the following criteria:
Demonstrated relevance of the specific module to their current or upcoming role with MSF
A minimum of twelve months' prior work experience with MSF at the time of application
A minimum English language level of C1
At least an undergraduate degree at 2:1 level (or international equivalent), or equivalent work experience
Are committed to working with MSF for at least six months after completing a module
Unlike the longer pathways, applications for the standalone modules pathway are processed and administered directly by the LEAP London programme team.
A selection committee will be convened after applications close to assess and select candidates. Your OC will be consulted throughout the process and will provide final approval for your participation in the course.
All applicants will receive notification on the outcome of their application by June 2026.
English Language Information
It is essential that your English language level is at a C1 minimum to take the LEAP.
As part of your application you will be required to take an online EF SET test, free-of-charge, to give the selection committee an indication of your English level.
If you already have an EF SET 4-skills certificate that is less than two years old, you will not be required to retake the test and can instead attach your existing certificate to your application.
If your application is successful, please note that, unless you meet the requirements for an English language exemption, you will be required to complete and submit an official Secure English Language Test (SELT) before starting the programme. In exceptional cases, if you are unable to complete a SELT, you may be able to apply for an English language waiver instead.
For a full guide on the English language requirements for LEAP, please see this document.
Only online modules are available as standalone modules. Please click on the LEAP Standalone Modules List for the full list of modules available in Semester 1.
Please note that this list is not definitive and may be updated as new modules become available. For further information on all modules offered through the LEAP programme, please visit the external LEAP website.
To apply for the standalone module, you need to provide:
Note for applicants used a non-MSF email address: You will need to send your documents (CV, cover letter, EF Set test results and signed letter of recommendation) by email to LEAP@London.msf.org
You can find further application instructions on the first page of the application form.
We strongly recommend that you inform your line manager or HR contact (HRCo, development manager, career manager, or pool manager) about your application as soon as possible.
As part of your application, you will be required to provide a recommendation from your line manager (or, for international staff between missions, your HRCo, development manager, career manager, or pool manager). If you are shortlisted, your line manager, as well as the relevant HR contact for international staff between missions, will be informed and asked to confirm your availability to study the selected module. The more they are on board, the more likely you are to receive their support.
After completing a module
You will be provided with a certificate of completion as proof you have successfully completed the module.
Please note that you may study a maximum of two modules under the standalone modules pathway, and only one module per academic year.
Credits awarded may also be used to progress to one of the longer pathways at a later date. If you wish to apply for a longer pathway, you must do so through your OC’s standard application process.
For further information about the standalone module pathway and how to apply, please contact the LEAP team at LEAP@London.msf.org LEAP@London.msf.org