The UK is home to some of the world’s top universities, but tuition and living costs can feel out of reach for many international students. Thankfully, there are plenty of fully funded and partial scholarships available if you know where to look.
Here’s a quick guide to the top scholarship opportunities in the UK for 2025:
Chevening Scholarships (Fully Funded)
For: Students from over 160 countries pursuing a one-year master’s degree.
Covers: Tuition, flights, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
Why it’s awesome:
It’s not just financial support—it’s a global network of future leaders. You don’t need to be a straight-A student, but leadership potential is key.
đź“… Deadline usually in November (for the following academic year)
Commonwealth Scholarships
For: Students from developing Commonwealth countries applying for master’s or PhD programs.
Covers: Full tuition, travel, and a monthly allowance.
Great for: Students in fields like science, engineering, education, and development.
đź“… Applications usually open in the fall
🏫 University-Specific Scholarships
Most UK universities offer their own scholarships for international students. Some examples:
- University of Oxford – Clarendon Fund Scholarships (fully funded)
- University of Cambridge – Gates Cambridge Scholarships (fully funded for non-UK students)
- Imperial College London – President’s PhD Scholarships
- University of Edinburgh, Manchester, and others – merit-based or country-specific awards
Tip:
Always check the university’s scholarship page. Many have dozens of awards available per department.
đź’Ľ Scholarships for Women in STEM
Organizations like the British Council and Microsoft offer special scholarships for women from specific countries pursuing degrees in science, tech, engineering, and math.
Why it matters:
These scholarships help close the gender gap in high-demand fields—and often include mentoring or internships.
Final Thought:
Studying in the UK might seem expensive but with the right scholarship, it could cost you little to nothing. Start early, craft a great personal statement, and apply to multiple options.