Are you looking to be among the 94,149 Indian students who have chosen to study in the UK for their master’s studies, but the fees worry you? Don’t fret! Many scholarships for a master’s in the UK are here to be your financial lifeline.
But how do you know which one’s for you?
In this guide, you’ll explore the top scholarships for a master’s in the UK that can help you turn your dream into a reality.
Dive in!
Key Highlights
Here are the key details you need to know about scholarships for a master’s in the UK.
Highlight
Details
Types of Scholarships for a Master’s in the UK
GovernmentPrivateUniversitySubject-based
Top Scholarships for a Master’s in the UK
Chevening ScholarshipGates Cambridge ScholarshipCommonwealth Master’s Scholarship
Average Reward Amount
GBP 1K to GBP 8K (INR 1L to 8.6L) in total
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Merit, Nationality Requirement, Admission Offer
What Do Scholarships for Master’s in UK Cover?
Scholarships for a master’s in the UK can significantly ease your financial burden by waiving part or total tuition fees that average INR 12L to 48.7L (GBP 11K to GBP 45K) per year.
Some scholarships offer stipends for living expenses, including accommodation, food, and travel.
The Chevening Scholarships are an example that provides complete financial backing for one-year postgraduate programs at 150 top universities in the UK. But how can you avail of these opportunities? Read on.
Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships for Masters in UK
Before you start dreaming of studying in the UK with a scholarship to make an impact, as Bill Clinton did, you must understand the eligibility criteria.
Here’s a table outlining the general criteria for postgraduate scholarships in the UK for international students.
Eligibility Criteria
Description
Academic Merit
GPA: 3.3+ | Percentage: 65% to 80% in graduation
Nationality
Check if your country is listed in the scholarship eligibility
Admission Offer
Attach the offer letter from a UK institution
Financial Need
Demonstrate financial need
Language Proficiency
IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL iBT: 92-100
Personal Statement
Keep an essay or statement about achievements and goals ready
Also Read: SOP for MBA: Proven Tips, Strategies and Samples to Secure Admission.
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Types of Scholarships for Master’s in UK
With 210 GREAT scholarships being offered by 71 universities for the 2024-25 academic year, many opportunities like this await you.
To help you find your perfect fit, here’s a breakdown of the different types of master’s scholarships available in the UK.
- Government-Funded Scholarships UK
The UK government offers several scholarships that are highly attractive to Indian students. These include the Chevening Scholarships, a highly prestigious award that provides full financial support to international students.
- Private Scholarships UK
Corporations, foundations, and individuals fund private scholarships in the UK. These scholarships typically focus on academic excellence and financial need and substantially support students across various disciplines.
An example is the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
- University-Based Scholarships UK
Many UK universities offer scholarships to Indian students, such as the University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarships. These help cover tuition fees and living costs and make quality education more accessible.
- Subject-Based Scholarships UK
Subject-based scholarships are awarded based on academic performance and financial need. They focus on specific fields, such as engineering and medicine.
An example is the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree Scholarship. It is known for its fully funded, high-quality programs offered through a consortium of European universities.
Top 10 Scholarships for Masters in UK
With a whopping 446,924 sponsored study visas granted in the year ending March 2024, it’s clear that the quest for a top-notch education is more sought after than ever. So, is there a scholarship that can help you be a part of the fantastic education system in the UK, too? Sure!
Explore the table below to discover the top scholarships for a master’s in the UK.
Scholarship
Average Award Amount
Chevening Scholarship
GBP 30K (INR 32.4L) a year
Gates Cambridge Scholarship
GBP 30K to 45K (INR 32.4L to 48.7L) a year
Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship
GBP 1.4K to 1.7K to (INR 1.5L to INR 1.8L) living allowance + full tuition fee
Rhodes Scholarship
GBP 19.1K (INR 20.6L) per year
Felix Scholarships
Tuition fees + GBP 17.8K (INR 19.2L) total living allowance
GREAT Scholarship
GBP 10K (INR 10.8L) in total
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree Scholarships
GBP 1.2K (INR 1.3L) per month allowance
Scotland Saltire Scholarships
GBP 8K (INR 8.6L) per year
Inlaks Scholarships
Up to 77.7K (INR 84L) in total
University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarships
GBP 11.5K (INR 12.4L) total living allowance
- Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship is a prestigious UK government award that provides full financial support for outstanding students from 160+ countries, including India, to pursue a one-year master’s degree.
Here are the eligibility criteria for Indian students for this master’s scholarship in the UK.
Criteria
Description
Citizenship
Must be from a Chevening-eligible country (India included)
Commitment to Return
Return to your home country for at least two years after the scholarship.
Work Experience
At least two years (2,800 hours)
Academic Qualifications
Hold an undergraduate degree
University Application
Apply to three UK courses and secure an unconditional offer from one.
- Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Since its inception in 2001, over £142 million has been spent supporting scholars from more than 700 universities globally with the GATES scholarship.
Here are the eligibility criteria for this fully funded scholarship for a master’s in the UK.
Criteria
Description
Citizenship
Non-UK citizen
Academic Courses
MLitt, or a one-year postgraduate course
Application Status
Concurrent application to Cambridge and scholarship
Academic Excellence
Demonstrated intellectual ability
Leadership & Commitment
Leadership potential and social impact commitment
Also Read: How to Get Into Cambridge University: Application Guide?
- Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship is a notable option among master’s scholarships in the UK. It is aimed at students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries, including India.
Here are the eligibility criteria for these scholarships for a master’s in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria
Description
Citizenship
Must be from a low or middle-income Commonwealth country
Age
Below 40 years
Academic Qualifications
Hold an undergraduate honours degree in at least upper second-class
Work Experience
Relevant experience or potential to contribute to development
Financial Need
Demonstrated financial need
- Rhodes Scholarships
The Rhodes Scholarship offers over 100 outstanding students each year the opportunity to pursue a fully-funded postgraduate degree at the University of Oxford.
Here are the eligibility criteria for these scholarships for a master’s in the UK.
Criteria
Details
Formal Education
Completed 4 to 10 years of formal education in an Indian institution
Age
Between 19 to 25 years old
Academic Achievement
Hold an undergraduate degree with a first-class or equivalent level of achievement.
- Felix Scholarships
The Felix Scholarships offer total funding to outstanding students from India and other developing countries to pursue a postgraduate degree (Master’s or PhD) at selected UK universities.
These include the University of Oxford, the University of Reading, and the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.
Here are the eligibility criteria for these scholarships for a master’s in the UK.
Criteria
Details
Nationality
Indian/Non EEA
Academic Excellence
Must be academically gifted and underprivileged
Degree Requirement
First-class Bachelor’s degree from a recognised Indian university
Recommendation
Must be recommended by their chosen university
- GREAT Scholarships
The GREAT Scholarships offer students from 15 countries the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree at participating UK universities.
Here are the eligibility criteria for these UK master’s scholarships for international students.
Criteria
Details
Citizenship
Must be a citizen of India
Educational Background
Must hold an undergraduate degree
Motivation
Must be motivated and interested in the proposed subject area
English Language Requirement
Must meet the English language requirement of the UK university
Engagement with the UK
Must engage with the UK as a scholar, both personally and academically
Networking Event Participation
Must attend a networking event for UK-based GREAT scholars
Ambassador Role
Must maintain contact with the British Council as an ambassador
Alumni Engagement
Must be willing to speak to potential candidates about their experience
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree Scholarships
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree Scholarships offer students worldwide the opportunity to pursue a fully funded, high-quality Master’s degree.
Here are the eligibility criteria for these scholarships for a master’s in the UK.
Criteria
Details
Educational Qualification
A first degree equivalent to 180 credits or 180 ECTS
Practitioner Experience
Minimum of two years of experience in human rights
Letters
Work experience letter, LORs and motivation letter
English Proficiency
IELTS/TOEFL scores
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- Scotland Saltire Scholarships
The Scotland Saltire Scholarships are prestigious awards the Scottish Government offers in partnership with universities.
Here are the eligibility criteria for these scholarships for a master’s in the UK.
Criteria
Details
Citizenship
Must be a citizen permanently and ordinarily resident in India
Course Level
Full-time one-year Master’s program at the University of Edinburgh
Eligible Subjects
Science, Technology, Creative Industries, Healthcare and Medical Sciences, Renewable and Clean Energy
Admission Requirement
Must have an offer from the University of Edinburgh
Undergraduate Restriction
Must not have completed an undergraduate degree in Scotland
Selection Criteria
Must have or expect to obtain the international equivalent of UK first class or 2:1 honours degree
Exclusions
Online distance learning Master’s programs are not eligible
- Inlaks Scholarships
The Inlaks Scholarships are prestigious awards for Indian students who want to pursue postgraduate studies at top universities abroad. These are specific to studying humanities, social sciences, fine arts, law, architecture, and allied fields.
Here are the eligibility criteria for these scholarships for a master’s in the UK.
Criteria
Details
Citizenship
Indian passport holders residing in India
Age
Born on or after 1st January 1994
Degree Certificate
Degree from a recognised Indian university or final year students awaiting results
Minimum Grades (Arts and Social Science)
Percentage: 65% | CGPA: 6.8/10
Minimum Grades (Science)
Percentage: 70% | CGPA: 7.2/10
Admission Requirement
Must have prior admission to the chosen institution
Postgraduate Qualifications
Not eligible if holding a Master’s or PhD from an institution abroad
- The University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarships
The University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarships offer a 50% reduction in tuition fees for high-achieving international students pursuing a Master’s degree at the University of Sussex.
Here are the eligibility criteria for these scholarships for a master’s in the UK.
Criteria
Details
Offer Acceptance
Accepted offer for an eligible full-time or part-time Master’s at Sussex
Application Requirement
Submit a statement of academic interests
Statement Contents
Academic achievements, Post-Masters aspirations, Relevant work or activities
Scholarships for Master Specialisations in the UK
Did you know that cheese rolling is a sport in the UK? Ready to experience this fun activity among the others? Sure, but first, you must choose the right scholarship based on your field.
Here are the best scholarship options for master’s specialisations in the UK.
- MBA Scholarship in the UK
The Chevening Scholarship is the best option if you’re looking to pursue an MBA in the UK. It provides full financial support for a one-year MBA at any UK university, focusing on leadership and networking.
Also Read: Pursuing an MBA in the UK Without Work Experience in 2024.
- MS Scholarship in the UK
If you want to pursue an MS in the UK, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is the best option. It offers total funding for an MS at the University of Cambridge, focusing on your exceptional academic ability and a commitment to leadership and social impact.
Also Read: MS In UK 2024: Top Universities & Course Details.
- MA Scholarship in the UK
The Rhodes Scholarship is an outstanding choice for pursuing an MA in the UK. This prestigious scholarship offers full financial support for your studies at the University of Oxford.
It’s awarded to individuals like you who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and a solid commitment to positively impacting the world.
- MBBS Scholarship in the UK
The GREAT Scholarship is an excellent option if you aim to pursue an MBBS in the UK. This scholarship, funded by the UK government in partnership with UK universities, offers financial support for international students, including those from India.
- Master’s in Law UK Scholarship
If you’re pursuing a Master’s in Law (LLM) in the UK, the Chevening Scholarship is one of the best options. Funded by the UK government, this prestigious scholarship provides full financial support for a one-year LLM program at any UK university.
How to Apply for Scholarships for Masters in UK?
Applying for scholarships for master’s in the UK can be a competitive process, but with careful planning and preparation, you can increase your chances of success. This section outlines the key steps to help you get through the application process effectively.
Documents Required
When applying for scholarships for a Master’s program in the UK, you typically need to prepare the following documents.
- Completed scholarship application form
- Statement of Purpose
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificate(s)
- CV or Resume
- Letters of Recommendation
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- Research proposal (if applicable)
- Offer Letter from the university (conditional or unconditional)
- Passport copy
- Financial statement or proof of income (if required)
- Portfolio (for certain courses like art, design, or architecture)
- Work experience certificates or letters (if applicable)
- Proof of residency or nationality (if applicable)
Application Process
Here are the steps to apply for scholarships for a Master’s program in the UK.
- Start by identifying scholarships that match your eligibility, focusing on those specific to your field, nationality, or the universities you are interested in.
- Carefully review the requirements for each scholarship to ensure you meet the academic, professional, and personal qualifications needed.
- Gather essential documents, such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency.
- Craft a compelling personal statement highlighting your academic achievements, career goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.
- Ensure all application materials are submitted well before the deadlines to avoid any last-minute issues.
- After submission, track your application status and prepare for any potential interviews that may be part of the selection process.
Tips to Get Scholarships for Masters in UK
With all the information given to you above, you may feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry!
Here are some essential tips on how to get a scholarship for a master’s in the UK.
Tip
Details
Research Early
Start searching for scholarships well in advance
Tailor Your Application
Customise each application to the specific scholarship criteria
Highlight Achievements
Emphasise academic and extracurricular successes
Strong Personal Statement
Craft a compelling and authentic narrative
Secure Strong References
Obtain recommendations from reputable sources like professors
Reasons Why Scholarships Get Revoked
Scholarships can be revoked for several reasons, often due to unmet academic or behavioural standards.
Here are the most significant reasons to keep in mind so you can avoid them entirely.
Reason
Details
Academic Performance
Falling below the required GPA or grades
Violation of Terms
Breaching scholarship agreement terms
Misconduct
Involvement in unethical or illegal activities
Incomplete Enrollment
Failure to maintain full-time status
False Information
Providing inaccurate application details
Working While Studying in the UK
Even with scholarships, working while you study in the UK can help cover extra costs and gain valuable experience.
Here’s what you need to know about working hours and regulations.
Category
Details
Term-Time Working Hours
Up to 20 hours per week
Vacation Periods
Full-time work allowed
Type of Work
Doctor
Dentist
Entertainer
Sports
Self-Employment
Visa Requirements
Must hold a valid Tier 4 (Student) visa
Minimum Wage (Per hour)
23 years and above: INR 1.13K (GBP 10.42)
21-22 years: INR 1.1K (GBP 10.18)
Also Read: Career Opportunities In The UK For Indian Students In 2024: Complete Guide
Conclusion
Did you know the average UK monthly salary is INR 2.1L (GBP 2K)? So investing in your education through scholarships for a master’s in the UK is an intelligent way to pave the path toward a prosperous career.
Need expert guidance? Leap Scholar counsellors are here to guide you through the entire study abroad process, helping you find the best opportunities to make your UK study experience successful and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What are the top scholarships for a Master’s in the UK?
Ans. The top scholarships for a Master’s in the UK include:
The Chevening Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship.
These are fully funded scholarships for a master’s in the UK, providing financial support for tuition and living expenses. -
Q. How can I find postgraduate scholarships in the UK for international students?
Ans. You can find postgraduate scholarships in the UK for international students by researching UK university websites, government scholarship portals, and organisations that offer funding. Many universities also list UK master’s scholarships for international students on their official pages.
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Q. What are the eligibility criteria for a scholarship for a master’s in the UK for Indian students?
Ans. Eligibility criteria for a scholarship for master’s in the UK for Indian students typically include:
A solid academic record
Proof of English language proficiency
An offer of admission from a UK university.
Some scholarships also require work experience or a demonstrated commitment to leadership. -
Q. Can I apply for multiple UK master’s scholarships for international students?
Ans. Yes, you can apply for multiple UK master’s scholarships for international students. However, you should ensure that each scholarship application is tailored to meet the specific requirements and that you qualify for each scholarship you apply for.
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Q. How competitive are fully funded scholarships for a master’s in the UK?
Ans. Fully funded scholarships for a master’s in the UK are highly competitive, with many applicants vying for limited spots. Preparing a strong application that highlights your academic achievements, leadership skills, and why you are a good fit for the scholarship is essential.
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Q. What is the best master’s in Law UK scholarship available?
Ans. The Chevening Scholarship is considered one of the best master’s in Law UK scholarships. It offers full financial support for a one-year LLM program at any UK university and is highly regarded for its focus on leadership and academic excellence.
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Q. How do I get a scholarship for a master’s in the UK if I have average grades?
Ans. Even with average grades, you can still secure scholarships for a master’s in the UK by highlighting other strengths such as work experience, extracurricular activities, and strong personal statements. Some postgraduate scholarships in the UK for international students consider the candidate’s overall profile.
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Q. Are there scholarships for a master’s in the UK specifically for Indian students?
Ans. Yes, there are scholarships for a master’s in the UK specifically for Indian students, such as the Felix Scholarships and Inlaks Scholarships. These scholarships focus on supporting academically gifted Indian students who wish to study in the UK.
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Q. Do I need to be accepted into a program before applying for postgraduate scholarships in the UK for international students?
Ans. Yes, most postgraduate scholarships in the UK for international students require you to have an offer of admission from a UK university before you can apply. Make sure to secure your place in the program early.
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Q. What documents are required for applying to scholarships for a master’s in the UK?
Ans. Commonly required documents for scholarships for a master’s in the UK include:
Academic transcripts
Proof of English language proficiency
A personal statement
Letters of recommendation
A copy of your admission offer from a UK university -
Q. How can I increase my chances of getting a fully funded scholarship for a master’s in the UK?
Ans. To increase your chances of getting a fully funded scholarship for a master’s in the UK, start by thoroughly researching how to get a scholarship for a master’s in the UK. Focus on applying early, ensuring your application is complete, and highlighting your unique qualifications and aspirations.
