Top 10 Scholarships to Study in the UK for International Students

 

The UK offers some of the most prestigious scholarships for international students, making it easier to access globally ranked universities with reduced or fully covered study costs. Renowned programmes such as Chevening, Gates Cambridge, Rhodes, Commonwealth, and Clarendon Scholarships provide extensive financial support, allowing students to focus purely on their academic and career goals.

With more than 160 universities and over 730,000 international students, the UK continues to be a leading destination for global education. Many UK scholarships cover 100% tuition fees, accommodation, and yearly living allowances that can exceed £20,000 per year, helping students manage both academic and living expenses comfortably.

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

*Want to study in the UK? Let Y-Axis help you every step of the process.

 

Top UK Universities Offering Scholarships for International Students

Many UK universities actively support international students by offering structured scholarship schemes that reduce tuition fees and overall study costs. These scholarships are designed to recognise academic excellence, support research talent, and encourage global diversity across campuses.

• University of Oxford: Offers prestigious scholarships like Rhodes and Clarendon supporting postgraduate and research students.
• University of Cambridge: Provides Gates Cambridge Scholarships with full financial support for high-achieving international students.
• Imperial College London: Supports international students through merit-based and subject-specific scholarship programmes.
• University of Edinburgh: Offers Edinburgh Global Scholarships and funded research opportunities for international applicants.
• University of Bristol: Provides THINK Big Scholarships to help reduce tuition costs for international students.
• University College London (UCL): Offers Global Master’s Scholarships with significant tuition fee support.
• University of Warwick: Supports postgraduate students through fully funded research scholarships and grants.

Eligibility Criteria for UK Scholarships for International Students

Eligibility for UK scholarships for international students is based on academic performance, communication skills, and alignment with the chosen course. A strong academic record and clear study plan significantly improve approval chances.

International students must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Minimum academic qualifications required by the chosen university
• Official offer letter or conditional acceptance from a UK institution
• English language proficiency through IELTS or equivalent tests
• Statement of purpose outlining academic and career goals
• Recommendation letters from academic or professional referees
• Relevant work or research experience for postgraduate or PhD programmes
• Compliance with country-specific or programme-specific conditions

 

How to Get Scholarships in the UK for International Students?

To get scholarships in the UK, international students must plan early and follow a structured application process. Start by identifying UK universities and courses that match your academic goals, then research available scholarships offered by the government and universities.

Step by step process to get UK Scholarships:

Step 1: Choose your preferred UK University and course based on your academic goals.
Step 2: Research available scholarships in the UK for international students through official university and government websites.
Step 3: Check eligibility criteria and application deadlines carefully.
Step 4: Prepare essential documents such as academic transcripts, personal statements, and recommendation letters.
Step 5: Complete the online scholarship application form accurately.
Step 6: Submit all required documents before the deadline.
Step 7: Track your application status and respond promptly to any additional requests.

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Benefits of studying in the UK for International Students

Scholarships to study in the UK offer far more than just financial assistance. They open doors to quality education, global exposure, and long-term career growth, making them highly valuable for international students.

• Reduced financial burden

• Access to top UK universities
• Improved career
• Global networking opportunities
• Enhanced research exposure
• Increased visa approval chances
• Pathway to post-study work

Best Courses in the UK with Strong Scholarship Opportunities

Many scholarships in the UK are linked to priority fields and high-demand courses. International students often find better funding options in the following areas:

• Business and Management: MBA and master’s programmes often come with partial or fully funded scholarships.
• Engineering and Technology: Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and Computer Science attract strong scholarship support.
• Data Science, AI and Computer Science: High-demand fields with growing scholarship options.
• Health, Nursing and Allied Health:  Some universities offer scholarships to support healthcare workforce needs.
• Law and International Relations: Popular with Chevening and other government-funded schemes.
• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics): Regularly supported by research-focused scholarships and funding bodies.

*Confused about which course to choose in the UK? Use Y-Axis Course Recommendation Services for personalised guidance.

Can international students get fully funded or 100% scholarships in the UK?

Yes, international students can secure fully funded or 100% scholarships in the UK through programmes such as Chevening, Commonwealth, Rhodes, and Gates Cambridge Scholarships. These cover full tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, and travel costs. While highly competitive, these UK scholarships are achievable for students with strong academic performance, leadership potential, and well-prepared applications. Applying early and meeting all eligibility criteria significantly increases approval chances.

 

When should I start applying for scholarships to study in the UK?

International students should start applying for UK scholarships at least 6 to 12 months before their intended intake. This allows enough time to research suitable scholarships, prepare documents, and meet application deadlines. Early planning also enables students to apply for multiple scholarships and strengthen their applications, improving their chances of securing financial support for studying in the UK.

 

Can international students apply for more than one UK scholarship?

Yes, international students are allowed to apply for multiple UK scholarships at the same time, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. Applying to several scholarships increases the likelihood of securing funding. However, some providers may not allow combined awards, so it is important to review individual scholarship terms carefully before applying.
 

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting a UK Scholarship

Securing scholarships to study in the UK requires more than just meeting basic eligibility criteria. A focused and well-prepared approach can significantly enhance your success rate.

• Apply early to access more scholarship options
• Tailor each application to the specific scholarship requirements
• Write a strong personal statement highlighting your goals and achievements
• Maintain excellent academic records
• Choose scholarships that match your profile and field of study
• Gather impactful recommendation letters
• Highlight leadership, extracurricular activities, or research experience

How Can Y-Axis Help You?

Y-Axis is your reliable partner for pursuing higher education in the UK, providing expert support throughout your entire study abroad journey from course selection to successful enrolment.

• Identify the right career and study options using Y-Path, our advanced career guidance tool.
• Receive expert IELTS coaching through structured live sessions to achieve the scores required by UK universities.
• Benefit from end-to-end counselling covering admissions, documentation, and university selection.
• Get personalised course recommendations based on your academic profile and career goals.
• Strengthen your application with professional SOP and CV assistance for higher approval chances.

*Planning to study in the UK? Connect with Y-Axis, the No.1 Study Overseas Consultant, and begin your journey with confidence and clarity.
 

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, Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships, Edinburgh Global Scholarships, Think Big Scholarships, and University of Westminster Scholarships. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs, helping students study in the UK affordably.

Who is eligible for scholarships to study in the UK?

Eligibility for UK scholarships generally depends on academic performance, English language proficiency, admission to a recognised UK university, and a strong personal statement. Some scholarships also prioritise leadership qualities, community involvement, financial need, or research potential. PhD scholarships may require a research proposal and supervisor approval.

Can international students get fully funded scholarships in the UK?

Yes, international students can receive fully funded scholarships in the UK through programmes such as Chevening, Commonwealth, Rhodes, and Gates Cambridge. These scholarships cover full tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and airfare. They are competitive and typically awarded to students with strong academic and leadership backgrounds.

How can I apply for scholarships in the UK for international students?

To apply for UK scholarships, research eligible programmes and shortlist universities that offer funding. Prepare key documents such as transcripts, SOP, LORs, CV, and English proficiency scores. Most scholarships require online applications through official university or government portals. Apply early and tailor your application to each scholarship’s criteria.

What documents are required for UK scholarships?

Documents required for UK scholarships include academic transcripts, degree certificates, personal statement, CV, letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency. Some scholarships also require financial statements, research proposals, or portfolios. Submitting complete and accurate documents improves approval chances.

Are there scholarships for Masters and PhD courses in the UK?

Yes, the UK offers many scholarships for Masters and PhD programmes. Chevening Scholarships support master’s degrees, while Gates Cambridge and Rhodes Scholarships support PhD and research programmes. Universities also offer merit-based and subject-specific funding for postgraduate studies.

Which universities offer the best scholarships in the UK?

Top universities offering scholarships include the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Edinburgh, University of Bristol, and University of Westminster. These institutions provide full and partial tuition funding for international students across various programmes.

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

The best time to apply for UK scholarships is 6 to 12 months before the chosen intake. Most scholarships open between November and March each year. Applying early helps you prepare documents, meet deadlines, and increase your chances of selection.

Which UK scholarships are easier for international students to qualify for?

University-based scholarships such as Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships, tuition fee waivers, and departmental awards are generally easier to secure. These scholarships focus primarily on academic excellence and course eligibility rather than strict leadership or interview requirements.

How to get a 100% scholarship in the UK?

To get a 100% scholarship in the UK, apply to fully funded programmes like Chevening, Commonwealth, Rhodes, and Gates Cambridge. Maintain excellent academic performance, demonstrate leadership skills, prepare a strong personal statement, and apply early. Matching your profile to the scholarship criteria significantly improves your chances of full funding.