Deciding to study in the UK is good investment in your future. A prestigious degree from the UK is a valuable and transformative experience and will take your education – and your employability – to the next level.
There are many funding options available for international students who want to study in the UK. They range from full-funding, for example the government pays full part of your fees, to full-funding which covers programme fees, living expenses, and return flights to the UK.
Wider UK government funding
The UK government offers hundreds of scholarships, bursaries and additional financial support to students from a large number of countries. You can visit the fully funded-scholarship to find out more about the funding available if you are studying in the UK as a postgraduate student, including whether or not you are eligible to apply for a scholarship.
In addition to institution-specific scholarships, international students pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK can explore a range of wider government funding options available to support their academic endeavors. These funding opportunities are often provided by government bodies, research councils, and other organizations, aiming to attract top talent from around the world and promote excellence in research and innovation. Here are some key avenues for wider UK government funding:
- UK Research Councils: The UK government allocates significant funding through research councils such as the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). These councils support postgraduate research students across various disciplines, providing funding for tuition fees, living expenses, and research-related costs. Students can apply for specific research council scholarships or funding schemes aligned with their research interests and career aspirations.
- Chevening Scholarships: The Chevening Scholarship program is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and aims to develop future leaders by offering fully-funded scholarships for postgraduate studies in the UK. Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals with leadership potential, enabling them to pursue a one-year master’s degree at any UK university.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: Commonwealth Scholarships are funded by the UK government in partnership with other Commonwealth countries, offering opportunities for students from eligible Commonwealth nations to study in the UK. These scholarships cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and living allowances for postgraduate students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in various fields.
- UK Government-sponsored Schemes: The UK government sponsors various scholarship and fellowship schemes aimed at international students, researchers, and professionals. These schemes may include the Marshall Scholarships, Fulbright Program, and the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, among others. Each scheme has its own eligibility criteria and application process, providing financial support and opportunities for academic and professional development in the UK.
- International Development Scholarships: The UK government, through its Department for International Development (DFID), offers scholarships for students from developing countries to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK. These scholarships focus on supporting individuals who demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the development of their home countries upon completion of their studies.
- British Council Scholarships: The British Council administers various scholarship programs on behalf of the UK government and other organizations, supporting international students, researchers, and professionals in their academic and professional pursuits in the UK. These scholarships cover a wide range of disciplines and study levels, catering to diverse needs and backgrounds.
- Research and Innovation Funding: The UK government invests in research and innovation through various funding streams, including grants, fellowships, and collaborative research projects. International students may have opportunities to participate in funded research programs and contribute to cutting-edge research initiatives across different sectors and disciplines.
- Regional and Local Government Scholarships: Some regional and local government authorities in the UK offer scholarships and bursaries to support international students studying in their respective regions. These scholarships may be available for specific courses, industries, or community development initiatives, providing additional financial assistance and support to students during their studies.
Overall, the wider UK government funding landscape offers a wealth of opportunities for international students pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK. By exploring these funding options and applying to relevant scholarship programs, students can access financial support, gain valuable experience, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and innovation in their chosen fields.
Universities specific scholarships:
Many UK higher education institutions provide their own tailored scholarship programs, catering to various criteria and needs of prospective students. These scholarships can be categorized into several types:
- Academic, Merit, and Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships recognize and reward students with outstanding academic achievements, typically demonstrated through exceptional grades in school examinations. They aim to attract the brightest minds to the institution and support their academic pursuits.
- Performance-Based Scholarships: Geared towards individuals who exhibit exceptional talent and skill in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, or performing arts like drama or dance. These scholarships aim to nurture talent and promote excellence in non-academic pursuits.
- Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments within institutions, these scholarships are tailored for students pursuing particular courses or subjects. They may provide financial assistance or other support to students studying disciplines where there’s a demand for skilled professionals.
- Equal Access or Sanctuary Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to support refugees and asylum seekers who have fled persecution in their home countries. They often include tuition fee reductions or waivers, as well as maintenance awards, ensuring equal access to education for vulnerable populations.
- Disability Scholarships: Aimed at supporting international students with disabilities, long-term mental health conditions, learning difficulties, or other special needs. These scholarships provide additional assistance and accommodations to ensure that all students have equal opportunities to succeed in their studies.
It’s essential for prospective students to explore the scholarship offerings of different institutions by visiting their websites and consulting specialized platforms like Postgraduate Studentships and Prospects. These resources provide curated information on scholarships available across various institutions, helping students make informed decisions about their academic and financial futures. By leveraging institution-specific scholarships, students can access valuable support tailored to their individual circumstances, enabling them to thrive academically and achieve their goals in the UK higher education landscape.
Postgraduate studentships in uk
Many universities offer fully-funded postgraduate studentships for PhD programmes. Learn more