The United Kingdom is one of the most popular study destinations in the world, but tuition and living costs are high for international students. Fortunately, the UK government, British Council, charities and universities offer many scholarships, some of which are fully funded.
This guide covers the major UK scholarships, who can apply, what they pay for, when applications usually open, and practical tips to give yourself the best chance of winning one.
Last checked: October 2026. Scholarship rules and dates change every year, so always confirm details on the official website before applying.
Major UK Scholarships at a Glance
| Scholarship | Level | Funding | Usual application window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening | One-year master’s | Fully funded | Opens early August, closes early October |
| Commonwealth Master’s | Master’s | Fully funded | Opens September, closes October |
| Commonwealth PhD | PhD | Fully funded | Through national nominating bodies; dates vary |
| GREAT Scholarships | One-year postgraduate | At least £10,000 towards tuition | Varies by university, usually spring |
| Gates Cambridge | Postgraduate at Cambridge | Fully funded | Autumn to early winter |
| Clarendon (Oxford) | Graduate study at Oxford | Fully funded | Apply with your Oxford course application |
| Rhodes | Postgraduate at Oxford | Fully funded | Usually summer to autumn, by country |
| Marshall | Postgraduate, US citizens only | Fully funded | Usually closes in early autumn |
1. Chevening Scholarships
Chevening is the UK government’s flagship international scholarship, aimed at future leaders. It funds a one-year master’s degree at almost any UK university.
- Covers: full tuition, a monthly living allowance, an economy return flight, visa costs and some arrival allowances.
- Key requirements: citizenship of a Chevening-eligible country; an undergraduate degree; at least 2,800 hours (about two years) of work experience; applications to three eligible UK master’s courses; and a commitment to return home for at least two years after the course.
- Timing: for the 2027/28 cycle, applications opened on 4 August 2026 and closed on 6 October 2026. The next round is expected to open around August 2027.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
Funded by the UK government and managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), these scholarships support talented students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries, such as Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana, who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK.
- Master’s covers: full tuition, return airfare, a monthly stipend (£1,712, or £2,000 in the London area for 2027/28), a study travel grant, and extra support for single parents with children in the UK.
- Key requirements: citizenship of and permanent residence in an eligible Commonwealth country; usually at least an upper second-class (2:1) degree or equivalent; and being unable to afford UK study without the award.
- Timing: the 2027/28 Master’s round opened on 8 September 2026 and closed on 20 October 2026. PhD scholarships are applied for through national nominating bodies, which set their own dates.
3. GREAT Scholarships
Run by the British Council with UK universities, GREAT Scholarships give students from selected countries at least £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate course. The list of eligible countries changes each year; for 2026 it included countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan and Kenya at participating universities. Each university runs its own application, usually after you receive an offer, so check the British Council Study UK website and the universities you are interested in.
4. University Scholarships at Oxford and Cambridge
- Gates Cambridge: fully funded scholarships for outstanding applicants from outside the UK for postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge.
- Clarendon Fund (Oxford): fully funded graduate scholarships. In most cases you are considered automatically when you apply to an eligible Oxford course by the relevant deadline.
- Rhodes Scholarship: one of the oldest international scholarships, for postgraduate study at Oxford, with selection organised by country or region.
5. Marshall Scholarships (US Citizens)
Marshall Scholarships fund American graduates to study for a postgraduate degree at almost any UK university. They are open only to US citizens.
6. Other University Scholarships and Bursaries
Almost every UK university offers its own scholarships for international students, often as tuition fee discounts based on merit or nationality. These are usually smaller than the big national awards but much less competitive. Search each university’s “scholarships and funding” page once you have a shortlist of courses.
UK (home) students can also apply for government student finance, and many universities offer bursaries, non-repayable grants based on household income. Check your university’s bursary page and your national student finance body.
How to Find the Right UK Scholarship
- Check your eligibility first: nationality, level of study, subject and work experience.
- Use official sources: the British Council Study UK site, the Chevening and CSC websites, and university funding pages.
- Build a timeline: the major awards close 9 to 12 months before courses start.
- Apply to several: combine one or two competitive national awards with several university scholarships.
Tips to Maximise Your Chances
- Start early. Good essays take weeks of drafting and feedback.
- Answer the question asked. Chevening, for example, asks about leadership, networking, study plans and career plans. Address each one directly.
- Use specific evidence. Show what you did, the result, and what you learned, rather than listing qualities.
- Link your course to your goals and to how you will help your home country.
- Prepare documents early: transcripts, references and English test results.
- Proofread carefully and ask someone else to read your essays.
- Prepare for interviews by practising clear, honest answers about your plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a fully funded scholarship in the UK?
Yes. Chevening, Commonwealth, Gates Cambridge, Clarendon, Rhodes and Marshall scholarships are fully funded, but they are highly competitive.
Are there UK scholarships for undergraduates?
Fewer than for postgraduates. Most undergraduate support comes from individual universities as partial fee discounts, so check each university’s website.
Do I need IELTS for UK scholarships?
Most universities require proof of English, such as IELTS or another accepted test, unless you are exempt. Some accept a previous degree taught in English. Check each university’s requirements.
Do I have to pay to apply?
No. The major UK scholarships are free to apply for. Be wary of agents or websites that ask for payment to “guarantee” a scholarship.
Conclusion
Studying in the UK is more achievable than many students think. Plan a year ahead, check eligibility carefully, apply for a mix of national and university scholarships, and write applications that show clear goals and real evidence. For more options, see our guide to full scholarships for international students.
