Scholarships provide a lifeline to students who may not have the financial means to afford international education and the UK, with its renowned universities, has made it easier through a range of scholarship programs. These scholarships are not just about reducing financial burden—they open doors to networking, global exposure and the chance to learn from the best in various fields.
With opportunities available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, scholarships allow individuals from all walks of life to pursue their academic dreams in the UK, whether through full funding or partial tuition fee waivers.
The appeal of scholarships is not just in the financial aid they offer but in the prestige and experience that comes with studying in the UK. From the rigorous academic environment to the opportunity to network with global leaders, the UK provides a fertile ground for both personal and professional growth.
Scholarships like Chevening, Commonwealth and the Gates Cambridge are tailored for students with leadership potential, those aiming to drive change in their home countries or those dedicated to academic excellence. In essence, a scholarship to the UK offers more than just education—it’s an investment in your future and a stepping stone to making an impactful difference on a global scale. So, whether you’re an undergraduate or a postgraduate student, here are 10 new ways to travel to the UK on scholarship that you may not have considered before.
Chevening Scholarships: The Prestige Pathway
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most prestigious ways to travel to the UK on scholarship. Funded by the UK government, this scholarship is aimed at individuals with strong leadership potential and a passion for change. What sets the Chevening Scholarship apart is that it doesn’t just focus on academic achievement; it values leadership, networking skills and a commitment to returning home to implement the skills learned in the UK.
This scholarship covers full tuition fees, accommodation and travel costs, along with a monthly stipend to help with living expenses. The program also offers a wealth of networking opportunities, allowing scholars to connect with influential leaders from around the world.
Eligibility:
To be eligible for the Chevening Scholarship, you must have at least two years of work experience, be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country and have an unconditional offer from a UK university.
Application Process:
The application process involves submitting an online form, writing personal essays and attending an interview. It’s competitive, but the rewards are worth it if you’re serious about finding a way to travel to the UK on scholarship.
Commonwealth Scholarships: For Students from Developing Nations
Another excellent way to travel to the UK on scholarship is through the Commonwealth Scholarships. These scholarships are offered to students from developing Commonwealth countries, with a focus on areas like technology, healthcare and sustainability.
What It Covers:
This scholarship covers full tuition, airfare and a monthly stipend, making it a fully funded opportunity to study in the UK. Additionally, there are various categories of Commonwealth Scholarships, including scholarships for Master’s programs, PhD candidates and professional fellowships.
Eligibility and Focus:
Applicants must come from a Commonwealth country and demonstrate how their studies will contribute to the development of their home country. The scholarship aims to support students who are committed to making a difference back home, in line with the scholarship’s mission to support international development.
The GREAT Scholarships: Unique Funding Opportunities
The GREAT Scholarships offer another way to travel to the UK on scholarship. Funded by the British Council and UK universities, these scholarships are designed to attract students from a select number of countries. They provide partial funding for one-year postgraduate courses across a range of subjects.
How Much You Can Get:
Scholarships are worth at least £10,000, which goes toward your tuition fees. Although not a full-ride, the GREAT Scholarship can be combined with other funding sources to make your dream of studying in the UK a reality.
Eligibility:
To be eligible, students must be from eligible countries such as India, Nigeria, China and others. The application process is relatively straightforward, but students should be ready to submit essays explaining why they want to study in the UK.
Erasmus+ Program: The European Connection
If you’re an EU or non-EU student with plans to study in the UK, the Erasmus+ program offers a fantastic way to travel to the UK on scholarship. Although the UK has left the EU, many UK universities still participate in the Erasmus+ scheme, offering opportunities for exchange programs and scholarships.
What’s Covered:
The Erasmus+ program covers travel expenses, tuition and a monthly stipend to help with living costs. The scholarships are designed to support students who want to spend part of their degree studying at a partner institution in the UK.
A Unique Experience:
Beyond funding, Erasmus+ offers a unique opportunity to experience different cultures, expand your academic horizons and gain valuable work experience through internships or placements.
Rhodes Scholarships: A Journey of Excellence
The Rhodes Scholarship is another prestigious way to travel to the UK on scholarship. Established in 1902, it is one of the oldest international scholarship programs in the world. It’s designed for postgraduate students who wish to study at the University of Oxford.
What Makes It Special:
The Rhodes Scholarship covers tuition, provides a stipend for living expenses and even covers travel costs. What sets it apart, however, is its focus on leadership and public service. Rhodes Scholars are expected to be passionate about solving global challenges and leading change.
Eligibility Criteria:
The eligibility criteria vary slightly depending on your country of origin, but generally, candidates must be between 19 and 25 years old and have a strong academic background. The selection process is rigorous, involving essays, recommendations and an interview.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships: Fully Funded for Top Minds
Looking for another way to travel to the UK on scholarship? The Gates Cambridge Scholarships might be the answer. Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, these scholarships are offered to outstanding applicants from any country outside the UK who wish to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge.
What’s Covered:
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers the full cost of studying, including tuition fees, travel expenses and a monthly stipend. It’s a fully funded scholarship that ensures you can focus on your studies without worrying about finances.
Who Should Apply:
This scholarship is aimed at students with a commitment to improving the lives of others, whether through research, public service or other avenues. If you have a strong academic record and a vision for making a difference in the world, this could be your ticket to the UK.
Think Big Scholarships from the University of Bristol
The University of Bristol’s Think Big Scholarships are another excellent way to travel to the UK on scholarship. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students and are designed to help cover tuition fees.
What’s on Offer:
Scholarships range from £5,000 to £20,000 per year. While this won’t cover your full expenses, it can significantly reduce your financial burden, making it easier to study in the UK.
How to Apply:
The application process is straightforward. Students need to submit a separate scholarship application alongside their application to the University of Bristol. If you’re selected, you’ll receive the funds as a tuition fee discount.
University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarship
If you’re seeking another new way to travel to the UK on scholarship, the University of Sussex offers the Chancellor’s International Scholarship, which is available to high-achieving students from outside the EU.
What It Covers:
This scholarship offers a 50% tuition fee reduction for one year of postgraduate study. Although it’s not a fully funded scholarship, it provides significant financial relief and can be combined with other funding sources.
Who Can Apply:
The scholarship is open to applicants from any country outside the EU and the selection process is based on academic merit and potential.
Clarendon Fund Scholarships at the University of Oxford
The Clarendon Fund Scholarships provide fully funded opportunities for graduate students at the University of Oxford. This is another fantastic way to travel to the UK on scholarship, especially for students who are pursuing postgraduate studies.
Fully Funded:
The Clarendon Fund covers tuition and college fees in full, along with a generous living stipend. It’s one of the most competitive scholarships out there, but if you’re academically strong, it’s a great way to secure funding for your UK education.
How to Apply:
You don’t need to submit a separate application for the Clarendon Fund; simply apply to the University of Oxford and your application will be considered for the scholarship based on your academic excellence.
10. British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM
Finally, if you’re a woman looking for a way to travel to the UK on scholarship, the British Council offers specific scholarships for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). These scholarships aim to increase female representation in STEM fields, particularly from countries in Asia, the Americas and Africa.
Comprehensive Support:
These scholarships cover full tuition fees, travel costs and a monthly stipend. It’s a fully funded scholarship that also provides mentorship opportunities, helping female scholars succeed in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Eligibility:
To apply, you must be a woman from an eligible country, have a background in STEM and demonstrate leadership potential. The application process includes essays and references.
There are plenty of ways to travel to the UK on scholarship, but choosing the right one depends on your academic background, career goals and financial needs. The key is to start early, research your options thoroughly and tailor your applications to each scholarship’s unique requirements. Whether you’re aiming for a fully funded opportunity like the Chevening or Commonwealth scholarships or a more specific program like the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM, there’s a scholarship out there for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I improve my chances of winning a UK scholarship?
To improve your chances of winning a UK scholarship, focus on maintaining a strong academic record, engaging in extracurricular activities and demonstrating leadership skills. Highlight your unique experiences and how your studies will contribute to your home country or the global community. Tailoring your application to the specific values of the scholarship (such as leadership, development impact or academic excellence) is also key to standing out.
Are scholarships for non-EU students still available after Brexit?
Yes, scholarships for non-EU students are still available after Brexit. Many UK universities, as well as organizations like Chevening and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, continue to offer scholarships for students from outside the European Union. Brexit has had little to no impact on scholarships for non-EU students and in some cases, additional opportunities have been created to attract international talent.
Can I work while studying on a scholarship in the UK?
Most scholarships in the UK allow students to work part-time while studying, but this depends on the specific scholarship and the visa regulations. International students on a Tier 4 student visa are generally allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. However, it’s important to ensure that your scholarship terms allow for this before taking up any employment.
Do UK scholarships cover living expenses?
Many scholarships, such as the Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships, provide full financial support, including tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation and even travel costs. However, some scholarships only cover tuition fees or provide partial funding, so it’s important to clarify what each scholarship covers when applying.
When is the best time to apply for UK scholarships?
The application deadlines for UK scholarships vary depending on the program, but generally, it’s best to start the process 12 to 18 months before the academic year you intend to study. This allows time for gathering documents, preparing essays and meeting specific requirements like work experience or admission offers from UK universities.
Are there scholarships for specific fields of study in the UK?
Yes, many UK scholarships are designed for specific fields of study. For example, the British Council offers scholarships for women in STEM fields, while the Commonwealth Scholarship targets areas like healthcare, technology and sustainability. It’s a good idea to search for scholarships that align with your field of study, as this can increase your chances of finding tailored funding opportunities.