Scholarships for International Students in the UK (2026 Guide)
Studying in the UK can be affordable with the help of scholarships designed for international students. UK universities, the government, and external organizations offer a wide range of scholarships to support talented students from India and other countries. These scholarships help reduce tuition fees and, in some cases, living expenses as well.
As trusted study abroad consultants in Kochi, Intersight Overseas Education guides students in identifying the right UK scholarships and applying successfully.
Types of Scholarships Available in the UK
- UK Government Scholarships
The UK government offers prestigious scholarships for international students based on academic merit and leadership potential. These are highly competitive and mainly available for postgraduate programs.
Popular government-funded scholarships include:
- Chevening Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
These scholarships may cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
- University-Specific Scholarships
Most UK universities offer scholarships to international students enrolling in undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These are usually merit-based and range from partial fee waivers to full tuition coverage.
Common benefits include:
- £2,000 to £10,000 tuition fee reductions
- Percentage-based scholarships (10%–50%)
- Automatic consideration based on academic performance
- Subject-Specific Scholarships
Some scholarships are available for specific fields such as:
- Business and Management
- Engineering and Technology
- Health Sciences
- Computer Science and Data Analytics
These are offered by universities or industry-linked institutions to encourage skilled graduates in high-demand sectors.
- Need-Based and Regional Scholarships
Certain UK universities offer financial assistance to students from specific countries, including India. These scholarships consider financial background along with academic performance.
Who Is Eligible for UK Scholarships?
Eligibility criteria may vary, but generally include:
- Strong academic record
- Offer letter from a UK university
- English language proficiency
- Well-written Statement of Purpose
- Relevant work experience (for some postgraduate scholarships)
When Should You Apply for Scholarships?
Most UK scholarships open:
- Between November and March for September intake
- Some university scholarships are awarded automatically
- Others require a separate application
Early application improves your chances of securing financial aid.
How Intersight Overseas Education Helps You
As experienced overseas education consultants in Kochi, we support students with:
- Shortlisting scholarship-friendly universities
- Identifying suitable UK scholarships
- Preparing strong SOPs and applications
- Ensuring deadlines are met
- Maximizing scholarship success chances
Why Choose the UK for Scholarship Opportunities?
- World-class universities
- Transparent scholarship processes
- Wide range of funding options
- High visa approval rates
- Excellent post-study work opportunities
FAQ: Scholarships for International Students in the UK
- Are scholarships available for Indian students in the UK?
Yes, Indian students can apply for government, university-specific, and merit-based scholarships in the UK.
- Can scholarships cover full tuition fees?
Some scholarships offer full tuition coverage, but most provide partial fee waivers.
- Is IELTS required to apply for scholarships?
It depends on the university and scholarship. Many require proof of English proficiency.
- Can undergraduate students get scholarships in the UK?
Yes, though more scholarships are available for postgraduate programs, undergraduate students also have options.
