Top 10 Scholarships for International Students in the UK 2026
Studying in the UK can be expensive, but many scholarships are available to help international students fund their education. This guide lists the top 10 scholarships for international students in the UK 2026, along with eligibility and application tips.
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Top 10 UK Scholarships for International Students
1. Chevening Scholarships
Chevening is a fully funded scholarship for postgraduate students from over 160 countries.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
Funded by the UK government for students from Commonwealth countries.
3. GREAT Scholarships
Offered by UK universities in partnership with the British Council.
4. Rhodes Scholarship
One of the oldest and most prestigious scholarships for study at the University of Oxford.
5. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Fully funded postgraduate scholarship at the University of Cambridge.
6. University of Westminster Scholarships
Full tuition fee waivers and living cost support for selected students.
7. University of Bristol Think Big Scholarships
Partial tuition fee scholarships for international students.
8. University of Edinburgh Global Scholarships
Scholarships for postgraduate study in various subjects.
9. Oxford Clarendon Scholarships
Fully funded scholarships for graduate students at Oxford.
10. Private University and Departmental Scholarships
Many universities offer subject-specific scholarships for international students.
Average Scholarship Benefits
| Benefit | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Partial or Full |
| Living Allowance | Up to £1,000+ per month* |
| Travel Costs | Return flights covered* |
| Accommodation | Covered in some scholarships* |
How to Apply for UK Scholarships
- Research scholarship eligibility criteria
- Prepare academic transcripts and recommendation letters
- Write a strong personal statement
- Apply before deadlines (usually 6–12 months in advance)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can international students get fully funded scholarships in the UK?
Yes, Chevening, Commonwealth, Rhodes, and Gates Cambridge scholarships are fully funded.
When should I apply for scholarships?
Most scholarships open applications 1 year before course start.
Do I need IELTS for scholarships?
Many scholarships require English language proof, but requirements vary.
Official Reference Sources
- Chevening Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- British Council
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
Conclusion
The UK offers many scholarships for international students. Applying early and preparing strong documents can significantly increase your chances of funding.
Check International Student Funding Guide