The United Kingdom is home to some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious colleges and universities, with roots tracing back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Renowned for its rich history and strong educational foundation, the UK serves as a global benchmark for academic excellence. Beyond its high-quality education, the UK attracts students from around the world with a wide range of scholarships. In this blog, we will explore the various scholarships for Indian students to study in the UK.
Scholarships For International Students To Study In The UK
The United Kingdom is one of the most sought-after destinations for higher education, offering world-class universities, advanced research opportunities, and diverse cultural experiences. However, the cost of studying abroad can be a significant barrier for many Indian students. To support aspiring scholars, various scholarships and financial aid options are available to Indian students pursuing education in the UK. Whether you plan to pursue an undergraduate, postgraduate, or research degree, numerous opportunities are tailored to meet your needs.
Chevening Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships are prestigious awards funded by the UK government, specifically the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), designed to support outstanding individuals from around the world in pursuing one-year master’s degrees at UK universities.
- Eligibility: Open to citizens of Chevening-eligible countries with at least two years of work experience, an undergraduate degree, and a commitment to return home for two years after study.
- Application: Applications for 2025 close on November 5, 2024. Applicants must secure an unconditional offer from one of three chosen UK universities by mid-July 2025.
- Coverage: Fully funded, covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and more.
- Diversity: Open to all genders, ages, and backgrounds to promote global leadership diversity.
Scotland Saltire Scholarship
The Scotland Saltire Scholarships are a financial aid programme offered by the Scottish Government in collaboration with Scottish universities, aimed at attracting international students to pursue one-year master’s degrees in Scotland.
- Eligibility: The programme is open to citizens of select countries (e.g., India, USA, Canada). Applicants need a UK-equivalent first-class or 2:1 honours degree, an offer of admission to a Scottish university, and financial proof to cover living costs.
- Fields of Study: Master’s programmes in Science, Technology, Creative Industries, Healthcare, and Renewable Energy.
- Application: Apply to a Scottish university, then submit a scholarship application with transcripts, recommendations, and a personal statement.
- Coverage: £8,000 towards tuition fees for one year of full-time master’s study at a Scottish university.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
The Gates Cambridge Scholarships are aimed at international students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge. These are fully funded scholarships for indian students in the UK established by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
- Eligibility: Open to citizens outside the UK applying for full-time postgraduate programmes at Cambridge (PhD, MLitt, or one-year master’s, with some exceptions).
- Coverage: Fully funded, including tuition, a living stipend (~£21,000/year), travel costs, academic development allowances, family support, and hardship funding.
- Application: Submit a combined course and funding application via Cambridge’s Graduate Portal with a personal statement, references, and (for PhD) a research proposal.
- Deadlines: Applications for 2025 open in September 2024. Course-specific deadlines vary, typically in December and January.
Commonwealth Masters Scholarships For Developing Countries
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships are designed to enable students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue full-time master’s degrees at UK universities. These scholarships are funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and aim to support individuals who would otherwise be unable to study in the UK due to financial constraints.
- Eligibility: The programme is open to citizens or refugees from eligible Commonwealth countries with a 2:1 honours degree or equivalent. Applicants must reside in an eligible country and demonstrate financial need.
- Coverage: Fully funded, including tuition fees, airfare, monthly living allowance (~£1,133), and additional allowances for thesis preparation, study-related travel, and fieldwork.
- Application Process: Applications must go through a nominated body (e.g., national agencies or NGOs). Direct applications to CSC are not accepted.
- Deadlines: Applications for 2025-2026 close on October 15, 2024. Check with your nominating body for specific deadlines.
Clarendon Fund Scholarships At The University of Oxford
The Clarendon Fund Scholarships at the University of Oxford are prestigious, fully-funded awards designed to support outstanding graduate students worldwide.
- Eligibility: The scholarship is open to students of all nationalities and fields of study. Applicants must have an excellent academic record, typically a first-class honours degree with a GPA of at least 3.7. Exceptional performance in a master’s degree can compensate for a lower GPA.
- Coverage: This scholarship covers full course fees and provides living grants of at least £15,009 for full-time scholars. Part-time scholars receive study support grants, with master’s students receiving at least £2,502 and DPhil students at least £5,003.
- Application Process: Apply by January to be considered for a Clarendon Scholarship. Departments nominate candidates based on academic merit, with divisions reviewing nominations in February/March. Successful applicants are notified by April, with funding details finalised by May. Unsuccessful applicants will not be contacted; assume no award if not notified by June. Late nominations are rare.
Bristol University Think Big Scholarships
The Bristol University Think Big Scholarships support international students who wish to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies at the University of Bristol. This scholarship programme aims to attract talented individuals worldwide by providing financial assistance towards tuition fees.
- Eligibility: Open to overseas fee-paying students starting courses in September 2025.
- Coverage
Undergraduate Scholarships: For international students (excluding Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science). Awards of £6,500 or £13,000/year applied to tuition fees.
Postgraduate Scholarships: For eligible one-year or specific two-year master’s programmes. Awards of £6,500, £13,000, or £26,000/year for tuition fees. - Application: Use the online form to apply for multiple awards under the Think Big scheme.
- Deadlines: Undergraduate: February 24, 2025 and Postgraduate: April 23, 2025.
Financial Planning Tips for Studying in the UK
When applying for scholarships, applicants must submit various documents to support their applications. While the specific requirements can vary depending on the scholarship, the following is a comprehensive list of commonly required documents:
| Document | Description |
| Application Form | Complete all sections accurately. |
| ID Proof | Passport or government-issued ID. |
| Academic Transcripts | Official records of grades and diplomas. |
| SOP/Letter of Motivation | Personal statement outlining goals and scholarship relevance. |
| Recommendation Letters | 2-3 letters from mentors, teachers, or employers. |
| CV/Resume | Details of achievements, work experience, and skills. |
| Proof of Admission | Admission confirmation from the institution. |
| Financial Documents | Income certificate or bank statement (for need-based scholarships). |
| Domicile Certificate | Proof of residency (if applicable). |
| Caste Certificate | Required for scholarships targeting specific communities (if applicable). |
| Photographs | Recent passport-sized photos as per guidelines. |
| Research Proposal | Detailed plan for research-focused scholarships (if applicable). |
| Portfolio | Creative work samples for relevant courses (if applicable). |
| Additional Certificates | Awards or achievements supporting your application. |
Studying in the UK offers a world-class education and unparalleled personal and professional growth opportunities. While the financial aspect can be a challenge, the availability of numerous scholarships for international students provides a pathway to overcome these barriers. By carefully researching opportunities, meeting eligibility criteria, and submitting strong applications, aspiring scholars can turn their dream of studying in the UK into reality. Start planning today to take advantage of these opportunities and unlock a future of possibilities!
FAQs
How can international students get a full scholarship in the UK?
To secure a full scholarship in the UK, visit the UKCISA website for detailed information on funding and eligibility for undergraduate students. You can also explore scholarships from universities, organisations, and government schemes.
Does the UK offer a 100% scholarship?
In most cases, scholarships in the UK don’t cover the entire tuition fee but can provide significant financial support. However, some universities, like the University of Nottingham, offer scholarships that cover full tuition fees.
Which UK university gives the most scholarships to international students?
The University of West London is recognised for its extensive scholarship programmes for international students. Each school within the university offers various awards and scholarships, providing numerous opportunities for eligible students to receive financial support.
Is IELTS required for a UK scholarship?
Some UK scholarships, such as the University of Edinburgh Global Scholarships, may require proof of English proficiency, often through a minimum IELTS score. Always check specific scholarship requirements for details.
How can Indian students get a full scholarship in the UK?
There are several UK scholarships for Indian students, these can be secured through programmes like Chevening, Commonwealth, and Rhodes Scholarships by meeting eligibility criteria, applying early, and presenting a strong application.
What are the scholarships for Masters in the UK for Indian students?
There are several UK scholarships for Indian students, including scholarships for masters in the UK for Indian students. These can be secured through programs like Chevening, Commonwealth, and Rhodes Scholarships by meeting eligibility criteria, applying early, and presenting a strong application.
Found this blog informative? Check out the links below for similar content.
1 thought on “Top PGDM Courses In Canada: Universities, Specialisations & Eligibility”
I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further