Top 10 Scholarships to Study in the UK for International Students

The UK offers some of the most competitive scholarships for international students, including Chevening, Gates Cambridge, Rhodes, Commonwealth, and Clarendon Scholarships. These programmes allow students to study at globally recognised UK universities with significantly reduced costs or complete financial coverage.

With over 160 universities and more than 730,000 international students, the UK remains a leading global destination for higher education. Many UK scholarships cover 100% tuition fees and provide annual living allowances that often exceed £20,000. This financial support, combined with world-class academic standards and strong post-study employment opportunities, makes the UK a top choice for international students seeking affordable, high-quality education.

Scholarship	Amount Awarded
Chevening Scholarship	100% funded
Gates Cambridge Scholarship	100% funded
Rhodes Scholarship	Full tuition + £20,400 stipend per year
Commonwealth Scholarship	Fully funded
Clarendon Scholarship	Full tuition + £20,780 annual living grant (varies by UKRI stipend rate annually)
Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarship	Full tuition + £20,780 stipend (varies by UKRI rate)
UCL Global Master’s Scholarship	£15,000
Warwick Postgraduate Research Scholarship	Full tuition + £20,000+ annual stipend (varies by UKRI rate)
University of York – International Masters Achievement Scholarship	Up to £10,000
Bristol Think Big Scholarship	£6,500 – £26,000

 

Top Universities Offering International Scholarships in the UK
 

Several leading UK universities provide a wide range of scholarships for international students to help reduce tuition costs and support academic excellence. These scholarships may be fully funded or partial and are awarded based on merit, financial need, or academic potential.

University of Oxford: Offers prestigious fully funded scholarships like Clarendon for outstanding international postgraduate students.

University of Cambridge: Provides the globally recognised Gates Cambridge Scholarship for high-achieving international students.

Imperial College London: Supports excellence through President’s Scholarships for international research students.

University of Edinburgh: Offers Edinburgh Global Scholarships to reduce tuition fees for international applicants.

University of Manchester: Provides International Excellence Scholarships for academically strong international students.

University of Bristol: Awards THINK Big Scholarships based on academic merit and future potential.

University of Warwick: Offers competitive postgraduate research scholarships with generous financial support.

Eligibility Criteria for UK Scholarships for International Students

To qualify for scholarships to study in the UK, international students must meet specific eligibility requirements set by scholarship providers and UK universities. While each scholarship has its own criteria, most UK scholarships for international students follow a common set of academic and documentation standards to assess suitability and merit.

To apply for UK scholarships, you must:

• Be an international student accepted by a recognised UK university
• Hold a valid offer letter for your chosen programme
• Meet academic performance requirements
• Provide proof of English language proficiency
• Submit a clear statement of purpose
• Include letters of recommendation
• Fulfil scholarship-specific eligibility criteria

How to Apply for UK Scholarships as an International Student?

Securing scholarships to study in the UK involves a clear and organised process that international students must follow to meet eligibility requirements and maximise their chances of receiving financial support. Careful planning, timely preparation, and accurate documentation play a key role in obtaining scholarships from UK universities and recognised funding bodies.

Step-by-Step Application Process for Scholarships:

Step 1: Research and shortlist scholarships to study in the UK that match your course, academic profile, and funding needs.

Step 2: Apply for admission to a recognised UK university before submitting scholarship applications.

Step 3: Review the eligibility criteria and required documents for each scholarship carefully.

Step 4: Prepare essential documents, including academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency.

Step 5: Write a strong statement of purpose highlighting your academic goals and achievements.

Step 6: Complete and submit the scholarship application through the official portal before the deadline.

Step 7: Attend interviews or assessments if shortlisted.

Step 8: Monitor your application status and respond promptly to any additional requests.

*Need guidance on scholarships and applications? Get expert help from Y-Axis.

Best Courses Offering Scholarship Opportunities in the UK

Certain study fields in the UK attract higher scholarship funding due to global demand, academic priority, and research importance. International students applying for these courses have better chances of securing scholarships to study in the UK, including fully funded and merit-based financial support.

Top Courses with High Scholarship Availability:

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics): High priority field with extensive funding options from UK government and universities.
• Business & Management: Popular for international students, with strong scholarship support for Master’s and MBA programmes.
• Public Policy & Social Sciences: Favoured by leadership-based scholarships such as Chevening for future global leaders.
• Research-Based PhD Programmes: Widely supported by fully funded scholarships covering tuition and living expenses.
• Health & Life Sciences: High-demand sector with strategic funding for international healthcare professionals.
• Data Science & Artificial Intelligence: Emerging field with increasing scholarship opportunities due to innovation focus.
• Environmental & Sustainability Studies: Supported by UK funding bodies for climate and sustainability-focused research.

 

 

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Which university gives a fully funded scholarship in the UK?
 

Several UK universities offer fully funded scholarships for international students that cover 100% tuition fees and living expenses:

• University of Oxford: Clarendon Fund provides full tuition and a generous living allowance for postgraduate students.
• University of Cambridge: Gates Cambridge Scholarship fully covers tuition, accommodation, and living costs.
• Imperial College London: Offers fully funded PhD scholarships with tuition coverage and annual stipend.
• University of Edinburgh: Provides fully funded doctoral scholarships including tuition and living support.
• University of Birmingham: Offers selected fully funded postgraduate scholarships for high-achieving international students.
   

Are there scholarships available for Master’s and PhD students in the UK?
 

Yes, there are numerous scholarships available for Master’s and PhD students in the UK. These include fully funded and partial scholarships such as Commonwealth Scholarships, Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Clarendon Fund, and Edinburgh Global Scholarships. These postgraduate scholarships cover tuition fees, living allowances, and research costs. PhD scholarships in the UK for international students often provide additional research funding and supervision support, making postgraduate study more accessible and affordable.
 

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting a UK Scholarship

Securing a UK scholarship is highly competitive, and successful applicants follow a strategic and well-prepared approach. Focusing on academic strength, strong applications, and timely submission can significantly improve your chances of receiving funding.

• Apply early and track deadlines carefully
• Maintain strong academic performance
• Write a compelling statement of purpose
• Highlight leadership and extracurricular activities
• Choose scholarships that match your profile
• Secure strong recommendation letters
• Prepare for interviews

How Can Y-Axis Help You?

Y-Axis is your trusted partner for studying in the UK, providing expert support to help you successfully secure scholarships and funding opportunities.

Personalised guidance to identify the best UK scholarships based on your profile.

• Expert counselling for university selection, admissions, and scholarship applications.
• Assistance with SOP, Resume, and documentation to create strong, competitive applications.
• IELTS coaching through live classes to meet language requirements of UK universities.
• End-to-end support for application submission, interview preparation, and follow-ups.

*Want to study in the UK with a scholarship? Contact Y-Axis, the No.1 Study Overseas Consultant, and begin your journey with confidence.

 

FAQs

 

What are the top 10 scholarships to study in the UK for international students?

The top 10 scholarships to study in the UK for international students include Chevening Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarship, Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Rhodes Scholarship, GREAT Scholarships, Clarendon Fund, Think Big Scholarship, Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships, Edinburgh Global Scholarship, and University of Westminster Scholarships. These scholarships in the UK for international students provide funding for tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and academic support. Some are fully funded UK scholarships, while others offer partial financial assistance. These international scholarships to study in the UK support undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programmes across leading UK universities.

 

Who can apply for scholarships to study in the UK?

Scholarships to study in the UK are open to international students who meet academic and eligibility requirements set by scholarship bodies and UK universities. Applicants must usually hold an offer letter from a recognised institution, demonstrate strong academic performance, and provide proof of English language proficiency. Many UK scholarships for international students also assess leadership potential, community involvement, and career goals. Whether you are seeking undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD scholarships in the UK, fulfilling eligibility criteria increases your chances of securing international scholarships to study in the UK.

 

Are there fully funded scholarships to study in the UK?

Yes, there are several fully funded scholarships to study in the UK for international students. These include Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarships, Rhodes Scholarships, and Gates Cambridge Scholarships. These fully funded UK scholarships cover tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, flights, and sometimes research costs. Such scholarships in the UK for international students are highly competitive and require excellent academic records, leadership qualities, and strong personal statements. Fully funded international scholarships to study in the UK allow students to pursue quality education without financial pressure.

 

How can international students apply for UK scholarships?

International students can apply for scholarships to study in the UK by first securing admission to a UK university and then applying directly through official scholarship portals. The application process for UK scholarships for international students generally includes submitting academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency. Some scholarships in the UK also involve interviews or additional assessments. Applying early, following guidelines carefully, and tailoring applications increases your chances of receiving international scholarships to study in the UK.

 

What documents are required for scholarships in the UK?

The documents required for scholarships to study in the UK usually include academic transcripts, IELTS or TOEFL scores, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, CV, and an offer letter from a UK university. Some UK scholarships for international students may also request research proposals or financial statements. These documents are used to evaluate your academic capability and suitability for funding. Submitting complete and accurate documentation is essential for securing scholarships in the UK for international students and improving approval chances.

 

Which UK universities offer scholarships for international students?

Many leading UK universities offer scholarships for international students, including the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Edinburgh, University of Manchester, and University of Birmingham. These institutions provide university-based and government-supported scholarships to study in the UK. Both merit-based and need-based options are available. These UK scholarships for international students make it easier to access high-quality education across a wide range of courses and academic disciplines.

 

Can I study in the UK for free with a scholarship?

Yes, you can study in the UK for free with a scholarship, but there are no tuition-free universities for international students. You must secure a fully funded scholarship to study in the UK that covers tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes flights and health insurance.

Popular fully funded UK scholarships include Chevening, Commonwealth, and Gates Cambridge Scholarships. Partial scholarships cover only part of tuition or living costs, while university-specific scholarships depend on merit or financial need. GREAT Scholarships provide £10,000 towards tuition for eligible postgraduate students.

 

What is the eligibility criteria for UK scholarships?

Eligibility criteria for scholarships to study in the UK vary by programme but generally include strong academic records, proof of English proficiency, and admission to a UK university. Many UK scholarships for international students also require leadership skills, work experience, and a clear academic or career vision. Some scholarships in the UK have age limits, nationality requirements, or course-specific conditions. Understanding these requirements helps applicants choose suitable international scholarships to study in the UK and improve selection chances.

 

Are scholarships in the UK available for Master’s and PhD students?

Yes, scholarships in the UK are widely available for Master’s and PhD students. Popular options include Commonwealth Scholarships, Clarendon Fund, Gates Cambridge, and Edinburgh Global Scholarships. These postgraduate scholarships in the UK support tuition fees, research costs, and living expenses. PhD scholarships in the UK for international students also provide research grants and academic supervision funding. These opportunities help international students pursue advanced education in the UK without excessive financial burden.

 

When should I apply for scholarships to study in the UK?

Students should begin preparing for scholarships to study in the UK at least 6 to 12 months before their course start date. Most UK scholarships for international students have early deadlines, and late applications are not accepted. Researching options early, preparing documents, and completing applications on time increases eligibility and success rates. Staying updated on official scholarship announcements ensures access to the best international scholarships to study in the UK.