The UK remains one of the top study abroad destinations for international students looking to pursue postgraduate degrees. Its world-class universities, multicultural society, and reputation for academic excellence continue to attract students from all over the globe.
Additionally, the UK government and various institutions provide numerous scholarships for international students to help fund their studies. These fully funded scholarships cover not only tuition fees but also provide stipends and travel allowances.
If you wish to study in the UK with full financial assistance, this guide covers the latest open opportunities and the step-by-step process for applying to MSc and PhD scholarships.
Latest Fully Funded MSc and PhD Scholarships in the UK
Here are some of the top ongoing fully funded scholarship programs for postgraduate studies in the UK:
1. Chevening Scholarships
The prestigious Chevening Scholarships offer full financial support for international students to pursue one-year master’s degrees at any UK university.
Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, visa fees, arrival allowance
Eligibility: Demonstrate leadership skills and potential, have an undergraduate degree, work experience, and English proficiency.
Application Timeline: Applications open around August and close in early November every year
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
Commonwealth Scholarships aim to support students from developing Commonwealth countries.
Coverage: Airfares, tuition fees, stipend, thesis grant, study travel grant
Eligibility: Have an undergraduate degree, be a Commonwealth citizen, and meet English language requirements
Application Timeline: Applications open in June/July each year with country-specific deadlines
3. Rhodes Scholarships
The Rhodes Scholarships enable outstanding students from across the world and all backgrounds to study at the University of Oxford.
Coverage: All expenses including tuition and college fees, living expenses, one economy class return airfare
Eligibility: Academic excellence, leadership potential, commitment to service, aged between 19-25 years
Application Timeline: Applications open in June and close around October each year
4. Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Gates Cambridge Scholarships are awarded to outstanding applicants from countries outside the UK to pursue postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge.
Coverage: Program fees, maintenance allowance, one return economy airfare, inbound visa costs
Eligibility: Academic excellence, leadership ability, a commitment to improving lives of others.
Application Timeline: Applications open in September and close in December annually
5. University Scholarships & Studentships
Many UK universities offer scholarships and studentships sponsored by external funders, research councils, industry partners as well as the university’s own discretionary funding.
Coverage: Program fees, monthly stipend, research and travel costs
Eligibility: Varies as per scholarship terms
Application Timeline: Varies as per university and scholarship type
Step-by-Step Guide on Applying for Fully Funded UK Scholarships
Follow these key steps when applying for fully sponsored postgraduate scholarships in the UK:
1. Research Scholarships Relevant to You
- Review scholarship requirements against your own profile and interests
- Check if you meet all eligibility criteria related to nationality, education, age, subject/research area etc.
- Take note of annual application timelines and prepare well in advance
2. Prepare a Strong Application
- Read the application guide thoroughly and prepare all required documents
- Draft compelling essays highlighting your achievements, leadership, social impact etc. as required
- Obtain excellent reference letters from professors/employers
- Provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL score)
3. Submit Your Completed Application
- Double check to ensure you have filled the application accurately and included all necessary supporting documents
- Submit the application package before the published deadline
- Save/print a copy of the completed application for your records
4. Participate in the Selection Process
- If shortlisted, partake in scheduled interviews and/or exams confidently
- Use the selection process as an opportunity to strengthen your overall candidature
- Accept the final outcomes gracefully
5. Finalize Your Admission
- If awarded a scholarship, fulfill any conditions outlined in the award letter
- Confirm admission by accepting your offer from the university
- Apply for student visa to study in the UK
Key Tips for Getting UK Scholarships
Follow these top tips to strengthen your scholarship application:
- Highlight both academic and extracurricular excellence – Well-rounded profiles appeal to reviewers
- Demonstrate clear goals and impact – Link your ambitions to potential for leadership and meaningful contribution
- Convey your personality and what makes you unique – Help reviewers see you as a whole person
- Get feedback from mentors – Ask experts to review your draft applications
- Apply to multiple scholarships – Increases your chances if you apply broadly
- Follow all instructions – Precise applications indicate your seriousness
The competition for full scholarships is intense.
However, with thorough preparation, persistence and working smartly on every aspect of your application, you can greatly boost your prospects of securing complete financial aid for your UK master’s or PhD.
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