Scholarships for international students in the UK offer a fantastic opportunity to receive a world-class education without the full financial burden. The United Kingdom has long been a popular destination for students from across the globe, and in 2025, numerous scholarships are available to support both undergraduate and postgraduate study.
This guide highlights the top scholarships for international students in the UK, detailing eligibility criteria, financial coverage, and how to apply. Whether you’re pursuing a master’s degree, a PhD, or a bachelor’s program, there’s likely a scholarship that fits your academic and career goals.
1. Chevening Scholarships
One of the most prestigious UK government-funded opportunities, Chevening Scholarships are offered to exceptional students from over 160 countries. These scholarships are for one-year master’s programs and cover tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and visa fees.
- Eligibility: Must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to returning to your home country after studying.
- Deadline: Applications typically open in August and close in early November.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
Funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Commonwealth Scholarships are designed for students from low and middle-income Commonwealth nations. They are available for both master’s and doctoral study.
- Coverage: Tuition, airfare, and a monthly stipend.
- Eligibility: Must be a Commonwealth citizen, demonstrate financial need, and have a strong academic background.
These scholarships aim to support development-focused education in areas like public health, engineering, and sustainable development.
3. GREAT Scholarships
In partnership with the British Council, the GREAT Scholarships program offers financial support to students from selected countries, including India, China, Malaysia, and more. For 2025, over 200 scholarships are expected to be available.
- Award Amount: Typically £10,000 for one-year postgraduate programs.
- Eligibility: Varies by country and university, but usually requires a strong academic record.
Each participating UK university outlines specific requirements and available subject areas.
4. Rhodes Scholarships
Available to outstanding students from specific countries, Rhodes Scholarships are fully funded and allow students to study at the University of Oxford.
- Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and a personal stipend.
- Eligibility: Academic excellence, leadership, and community service. Applicants must usually be between 18–24 years old.
Rhodes is one of the oldest and most competitive international scholarships globally.
5. Clarendon Scholarships (University of Oxford)
The Clarendon Scholarships are merit-based awards offered by the University of Oxford to graduate students from any country.
- Coverage: Full tuition and a generous grant for living expenses.
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic record and admission to an eligible graduate course at Oxford.
No separate application is needed; all eligible candidates are automatically considered.
6. University-Specific Scholarships
Many universities across the UK offer their own scholarships for international students in various fields of study. These can be either full or partial scholarships.
- University of Edinburgh Global Scholarships: Multiple awards for master’s and research programs.
- University of Bristol Think Big Scholarships: For undergraduate and postgraduate programs, offering up to £20,000.
- University of Cambridge Gates Cambridge Scholarships: Fully funded scholarships for graduate students, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Make sure to check each university’s scholarship portal for the most up-to-date offerings and deadlines.
7. British Council Women in STEM Scholarships
These scholarships are aimed at women from eligible countries who want to pursue a master’s degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) field.
- Coverage: Tuition fees, travel expenses, monthly stipend, visa, and health coverage.
- Goal: Encourage more women into STEM and increase global representation.
This program is especially ideal for applicants from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Americas.
8. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships
Supported by the Scottish Government, Saltire Scholarships are available for students from Canada, China, India, Japan, Pakistan, and the USA. They support one-year postgraduate programs in Scotland.
- Award: £8,000 towards tuition fees.
- Eligibility: Must show leadership and a commitment to making a positive impact in your home country.
Tips for Securing Scholarships in the UK
- Start Early: Application windows can be as early as 10-12 months before your course begins.
- Tailor Each Application: Write unique personal statements that reflect the mission of each scholarship.
- Meet All Criteria: Carefully read through eligibility and documentation requirements.
- Use University Support Services: Many institutions have scholarship advisors to help you apply.
Final Thoughts
Pursuing your education in the UK is a significant investment, but these scholarships can ease the financial burden and enhance your academic journey. From government-funded options like Chevening and Commonwealth to university-specific awards and subject-focused opportunities like the Women in STEM initiative, there’s a scholarship available for nearly every type of student.
Don’t let finances hold you back. Explore the best scholarships in the UK for 2025 and take the first step toward your dream of international education.