Fully Funded Scholarships in UK for International Students

Updated on 19 September, 2024

Fully Funded Scholarships in UK

With a globally recognized education system and top-ranking institutions, the UK is often the first choice for students from all over the world. 

While the UK is one of the most expensive countries for abroad education, fully funded scholarships in UK can make education in this country much more affordable for international students.

These scholarships provide a great chance to study higher education for students from other countries around the world, including India. 

The scholarships do not just cover the entire cost of tuition. They also provide an allowance for housing, travel, personal expenses and even visa application. 

Scholarships such as Chevening, Commonwealth and Gates Cambridge not just provide financial aid for international students but also a platform for academic & professional development. 

These scholarships help build a more inclusive and diverse academic community by removing the financial hurdles of accessing quality education.

What are the Types of Scholarships in the UK?

There are various types of scholarships available in the UK, including:

Merit-based Scholarships: Awarded to students based on their academic achievements and excellence.

Need-based Scholarships: Provided to students who demonstrate financial need.

Subject-specific Scholarships: Offered to students pursuing specific fields of study.

University-specific Scholarships: Funded by individual universities for their students.

Country-specific Scholarships: Targeted at students from particular countries or regions.

External Scholarships: Provided by organizations and foundations outside the university.

Disability Scholarships: Targeted towards students with special learning needs or impairments.

List of Fully Funded Scholarships in UK for Indian Students 2024

Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in UK 

For Indian students aiming to pursue undergraduate studies in the UK, several fully funded scholarships are available:

  1. Reach Oxford Scholarships: For students from low-income countries who cannot study in their own country.
  2. The Sanctuary Scholarship: Covering tuition and £1,650 annual bursary for personal expenses.
  3. John C Phelan General Course scholarships: For international students with academic excellence and potential.

Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in UK

Indian students aspiring to pursue a Master's degree in the UK can benefit from fully funded scholarships such as:

  1. Chevening Scholarships: Government-funded scholarships covering tuition fees, travel, and living expenses.
  2. Commonwealth Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, covering full tuition and living costs.
  3. Gates Cambridge Scholarships: For outstanding applicants from outside the UK to study at the University of Cambridge.

Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in UK

For those looking to undertake PhD studies, the UK offers several fully funded options:

  1. Clarendon Scholarships at University of Oxford: Covering tuition and living expenses for the duration of the course.
  2. President’s PhD Scholarships at Imperial College London: For high-performing students, covering tuition and living costs. 
  3. Rhodes Scholarship: Full tuition coverage and a personal stipend of £19,092 per year.

How to Apply for a Fully Funded Scholarship in UK

Applying for a fully funded scholarship in the UK involves several steps:

  • Research: Identify scholarships that match your qualifications and interests.
  • Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
  • Meet Deadlines: Ensure you apply before the deadlines.
  • Submit Applications: Follow the application guidelines provided by the scholarship or university.
  • Prepare for Interviews: Some scholarships may require an interview as part of the selection process.

What is the Role of Scholarships for Studying in UK?

Scholarships play a pivotal role in making education accessible to talented students who may not afford the high costs associated with studying in the UK. Here are some key roles scholarships play:

  • Financial Support: Scholarships provide essential financial assistance, covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and sometimes additional expenses like books and supplies. This support alleviates the financial burden on students and their families, allowing them to focus on their academic pursuits without the constant worry of financial strain.
  • Academic Excellence: Many scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, encouraging students to maintain high academic standards. This drive for excellence benefits not only the students but also the universities that host them, as it helps in creating a competitive and stimulating academic environment.
  • Access to Top-tier Education: Scholarships open doors to prestigious institutions that might otherwise be financially inaccessible. This access allows students to benefit from high-quality education, state-of-the-art facilities, and cutting-edge research opportunities.
  • Networking and Professional Development: Scholarships often come with additional benefits such as networking events, mentorship programs, and opportunities for internships. These experiences are invaluable for personal and professional growth, helping students build connections that can support their future careers.
  • Cultural Exchange and Diversity: By supporting students from various countries and backgrounds, scholarships contribute to the cultural diversity of UK universities. This diversity enriches the learning experience for all students, fostering a global perspective and promoting cross-cultural understanding.

Which are the Top Universities Offering Scholarships in UK?

University QS Global Ranking 2025 Scholarships Offered
Imperial College #2 President’s PhD Scholarships, PhD Scholarship for Women in Computational and Data ScienceLeverhulme Studentship
University of Oxford #3 Rhodes Scholarship, Clarendon Fund, Reach Oxford
University of Cambridge #5 Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Cambridge Trust
UCL #9 UCL Global Undergraduate ScholarshipUCL Research Excellence Scholarships
University of Bristol #54 Think Big Scholarships, Sanctuary Scholarship

Conclusion

Fully funded scholarships in the UK provide invaluable opportunities for Indian students to pursue higher education at some of the world's leading institutions. By covering tuition and living expenses, these scholarships enable students to achieve their academic and professional goals without financial stress.

Here are some detailed articles on Fully Funded Scholarships for top Study Abroad Destination:

FAQs

What is the difference between fully funded and partially funded scholarships?

Fully funded scholarships cover all expenses, including tuition, living costs, and other fees, while partially funded scholarships only cover a portion of these expenses.

Can I get a 100% scholarship to study in UK?

Several scholarships like the Rhodes Scholarship, Chevening Scholarships and Clarendon Scholarship offer 100% funding, covering all expenses related to tuition and living costs.

How can an Indian student get a scholarship to study in UK?

Indian students can apply for scholarships by researching available options, preparing necessary documents, and submitting applications before deadlines.

Can I get a scholarship in the UK without IELTS?

Some scholarships and universities may waive the IELTS requirement as most of them primarily determine student eligibility based on academic performance and extracurricular activities.

Is the UK a good option for Indian students?

The UK is an excellent option for Indian students due to its world-class education system, diverse culture, and numerous scholarship opportunities.

What is a full-ride scholarship?

A full-ride scholarship is one that covers all the costs of education, including tuition, fees, room, and visa.

How much percentage is required for a scholarship in UK?

The percentage required varies by scholarship and university, but generally, a strong academic record is necessary.

How can I increase my chances of getting a scholarship in UK?

To increase your chances, maintain a high academic record, gain relevant experience, prepare strong application documents, and apply to multiple scholarships.

Did you find this article helpful?

Jyotsna Singh

With over a decade of expertise in international education, Jyotsna has held impactful roles at the British Council, Unilodgers, a prominent UK university, and IDP Education, empowering countless students by not only enhancing their educational experiences but also by offering them guidance in securing essential scholarships and financial aid. She is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals through tailored guidance and financial support.

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