UK Scholarships for Indian Students and Eligibility

The United Kingdom’s prestigious universities and diverse culture have long attracted Indian students seeking a world-class education. However, the cost can be a significant hurdle. The good news is that there’s a wealth of scholarships available specifically for Indian students, making a UK degree a much more attainable goal.

Why Study in the UK?

Before we dive into the scholarships, let’s explore why studying in the UK is a top choice:

• Academic Excellence: UK universities consistently rank among the best globally, known for their research, innovative teaching methods, and strong industry connections.
• Cultural Melting Pot: Experience a vibrant mix of cultures and perspectives, enriching your personal and academic growth.
• Shorter Degree Programs: Many UK master’s programs can be completed in just one year, saving you time and money.
• Career Opportunities: A UK degree opens doors to international job markets and career advancement.

Scope of Financial Assistance Provided by UK Scholarships

The financial coverage provided by UK scholarships can vary depending on the specific scholarship you apply for. Here’s a breakdown of what some scholarships might cover:

• Tuition Fees: Many scholarships cover a significant portion, if not all, of your tuition fees for your chosen program. This can be a major financial relief, especially for universities with high tuition costs.
• Living Expenses: Some scholarships provide a stipend or allowance to help cover your living costs in the UK. This might include expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities. The amount can vary depending on the scholarship and location (e.g., London living costs are typically higher).
• Travel Costs: A few scholarships might offer financial assistance towards travel costs to and from the UK, including airfare and visa application fees.
• Additional Expenses: Rarely, some scholarships might even cover additional expenses like health insurance, books, or research materials. Be sure to read the scholarship description to understand what’s included carefully.
  

Here’s a quick table to summarize the coverage:

Coverage	Description	Example
Tuition Fees	Full or partial coverage of tuition costs for your program.	Scholarship might cover 50% or 100% of tuition fees.
Living Expenses	Stipend or allowance to help with accommodation, food, transportation, etc.	Scholarship might offer £1000 per month for living expenses.
Travel Costs	Financial assistance towards airfare and visa application fees.	Scholarship might cover a portion of your airfare to the UK.
Additional Expenses	Less common, it might cover health insurance, books, or research materials.	Scholarship might provide a one-time grant for textbooks.

Remember:

• It’s crucial to read the scholarship description thoroughly to understand its exact coverage details.
• Scholarships with broader coverage (tuition fees + living expenses) are typically more competitive.
• Look for scholarships offered by the university you’re applying to, the UK government, or organizations relevant to your field of study.

Top Government-Funded or External Scholarships 

1. Chevening Scholarships

Overview: Funded by the UK government, Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding emerging leaders to pursue a one-year master’s degree in any subject at any UK university. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances.

Eligibility:

• Must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country, including India.
• Have an undergraduate degree.
• Two years of work experience.
• Return to home country for a minimum of two years after the scholarship ends.

Application Tips:

• Highlight leadership potential and career plans.
• Obtain strong letters of recommendation.

2. Commonwealth Scholarships

Overview: Aimed at students from Commonwealth countries, these scholarships cover tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses for master’s and PhD programs. They are intended for those who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK. 

Eligibility:

• Must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country.
• Hold an undergraduate degree.
• Demonstrate financial need.

Application Tips:

• Focus on academic excellence and development impact.
• Provide a compelling statement of purpose.

3. GREAT Scholarships

Overview: Offered by the British Council and UK universities, GREAT Scholarships are available for Indian students in a range of subjects.

Eligibility:

• Must be an Indian citizen.
• Hold an offer from a participating UK university.
• Demonstrate excellent academic performance.

Application Tips:

• Research the specific requirements of the participating universities.
• Showcase your academic achievements and future ambitions.

4. Inlaks Scholarships

Overview: Funded by the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation, these scholarships support exceptional students for master’s, M.Phil, or PhD programs at top-rated European, UK, and American institutions. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, one-way travel, and health allowance.

Eligibility:

• Indian citizenship.
• Bachelor’s degree.

Application Tips:

• Emphasize extracurricular achievements and leadership skills.
• Prepare for a rigorous selection process, including interviews.

5. Felix Scholarships

Overview: These scholarships support deserving students from India and other developing countries who have a first-class undergraduate degree and demonstrate financial need to pursue postgraduate studies at selected UK universities like the University of Oxford, the University of Reading, and the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London.

Eligibility:

• First-class undergraduate degree.
• Financial need.

Application Tips:

• Demonstrate how the scholarship will help you contribute to your community.
• Highlight academic and professional accomplishments.

6. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships:

• What it covers: Grants and fellowships for doctoral studies, research, and professional development in the arts, heritage conservation, and humanities.
• Eligibility: Indian citizens with relevant experience and a strong proposal.
• How to apply: Apply online through the CWIT website.

7. The Global Study Awards

Overview: The Global Study Awards are a collaborative initiative by the British Council, ISIC, and StudyPortals. This scholarship aims to support international students who wish to pursue their higher education in the UK. Each award is valued at up to £10,000 and is intended to cover tuition fees and living expenses.

Eligibility

• Open to international students planning to study in the UK.
• Must have received an offer from a UK institution for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate program.
• Applicants must hold a valid ISIC card at the time of application.
• Must demonstrate a strong commitment to intercultural exchange and academic excellence.

Application Tips

• Craft a compelling personal statement 
• Obtain strong letters of recommendation 

8. Goa Education Trust Scholarships

Overview: The Goa Education Trust Scholarships are offered by the Goa Education Trust to support Indian students from Goa who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK. The scholarship covers full or partial tuition fees for the chosen program.

Eligibility

• Must be an Indian national and a resident of Goa.
• Should have received an offer for a postgraduate course at a recognized UK university.
• Demonstrate academic excellence and a strong commitment to contributing to the development of Goa.

Application Tips

• Proof of Residency: Provide clear documentation proving your Goan residency.

9. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs)

Overview: The Erasmus Mundus program offers scholarships for various joint master’s degree programs, in partnership with UK universities. These scholarships cover tuition fees, travel expenses, installation costs, and a monthly subsistence allowance, providing comprehensive financial support.

Eligibility

• Must apply to one of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree programs listed in the Erasmus Mundus catalog.
• For students from all over the world.
• Demonstrate academic excellence and meet the specific entry requirements of the chosen program.

Top University-Specific Scholarships

• Rhodes Scholarships : One of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programs, the Rhodes Scholarship is awarded to students wishing to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. It covers tuition fees, a stipend, and travel expenses.
• Gates Cambridge Scholarships : Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, these scholarships are awarded to outstanding applicants from any country outside the UK to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree in any subject available at the University of Cambridge. The scholarship covers the full cost of studying at Cambridge, including tuition fees, maintenance allowance, and airfare.
• Clarendon Fund Scholarships : Offered by the University of Oxford, the Clarendon Fund provides around 140 full scholarships every year to academically excellent students. The scholarship covers tuition and college fees as well as a generous grant for living expenses.
• Dr Manmohan Singh Scholarships : Named after the former Prime Minister of India, these scholarships are for academically outstanding Indian students wishing to pursue doctoral studies at St John’s College, University of Cambridge. The scholarship covers academic fees, international airfare, a monthly stipend, and a UK visa.
• Sussex India Scholarship : The University of Sussex offers the Sussex India Scholarship to Indian students applying for eligible Master’s courses. This scholarship provides a £3,000 fee reduction for successful applicants.

Other UK Scholarships for Indian Students

1. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships

Funded by the Scottish Government, these scholarships are available to students from Canada, China, India, Japan, Pakistan, and the USA. The scholarship offers up to £8,000 towards tuition fees for one year of a full-time postgraduate Master’s program in any of Scotland’s higher education institutions.

2. Hornby Scholarships

Administered by the Hornby Educational Trust, these scholarships are aimed at experienced English language teachers and ELT professionals who wish to study for a Master’s degree in the UK. The scholarship covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, return airfare, and other approved costs.

3. The Oxford and Cambridge Society of India Scholarship

These scholarships are awarded to Indian students who have secured admission to the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge. They are merit-based and cover a part of the tuition fee and living expenses.

4. University of Westminster

• Aziz Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship: This full-fee scholarship supports UK Muslim students from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds. (Deadline typically in March and June)
• University of Westminster GREAT Scholarships: Offers £10,000 towards tuition fees for specific postgraduate programs in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences for students from select countries. (Deadline typically in June)
• Home and International Postgraduate Part-Fee Scholarships: These scholarships offer partial tuition fee reductions for both domestic and international students. 

5. Coventry University

Coventry Academic Performance Scholarships: These merit-based scholarships offer up to £1,500 towards tuition fees for full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students with excellent academic records. (Automatic consideration upon application)

6. Queen Mary University of London (QMUL)

Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) offers scholarships for high-achieving students. These can range from partial tuition fee reductions to full scholarships covering living expenses. Research your desired program’s funding section to explore scholarship opportunities. Many of their postgraduate programs offer merit-based scholarships worth £3,000 towards tuition fees.

7. Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships

These prestigious scholarships are offered by the University of Edinburgh for outstanding postgraduate research students from around the world. They cover full tuition fees and a living stipend. (Deadline typically in January)

8. University of the Arts London (UAL)

• UAL Vice-Chancellor’s Postgraduate International Scholarships: Offers partial tuition fee reductions for international students on selected postgraduate programs across UAL colleges. (Deadline typically in March)

9. University of West London (UWL)

• International Ambassador Scholarships: Offers £1,000 towards tuition fees for outstanding international undergraduate and postgraduate applicants who can act as university ambassadors. (Deadline typically in June)

10. University of Bristol

• The University of Bristol offers a treasure trove of scholarships for international students. Each department manages its awards, so dig into your program webpage to unearth scholarship opportunities. These can range from partial to full tuition fee coverage, making your UK study dreams more affordable.

UK Scholarship Intakes

While universities in the UK typically have multiple intakes throughout the year (September, January, and sometimes April/May), scholarship application deadlines often differ from program deadlines. Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate UK scholarship intakes:

Types of Scholarship Intakes:

• Independent Deadlines: Some scholarships have deadlines independent of university application rounds. These deadlines could be months before the program start date, so be sure to research and plan accordingly. Examples include the Chevening Scholarships with a January deadline for a September intake.
• Aligned Deadlines: Certain scholarships might align with specific university application rounds. For instance, the GREAT Scholarships application might coincide with the January deadline for postgraduate programs at participating universities.
• Rolling Deadlines: A few scholarships might have rolling deadlines, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. However, applying early is still recommended for such opportunities.
• National Scholarship Deadlines: Certain national scholarships offered by the UK government or organizations may have set application rounds. These deadlines often coincide with university application deadlines, which typically fall into two categories:

1. Early Bird/September Intake: This intake has deadlines around October to January for applications submitted through UCAS (undergraduate) or university portals (postgraduate). Some scholarships might have earlier deadlines to allow for additional processing.

2. Late/January Intake: A smaller intake with deadlines around May to June. Scholarship deadlines for this intake might also be earlier.

Finding Scholarship Deadlines:

• Scholarship Website: The most reliable source for deadlines is always the official scholarship website. Look for dedicated sections on “Eligibility” or “How to Apply” that outline deadlines and application procedures.
• University Websites: University scholarship pages often mention application deadlines and might clarify if they align with program intakes.

General Eligibility Requirements

While each scholarship has specific criteria, here are some common requirements:

• Academic Excellence: Strong academic performance in your previous studies is essential.
• English Language Proficiency: You’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in English, usually through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
• Strong Application: Craft a compelling personal statement highlighting your achievements, goals, and how the scholarship will benefit your career.
• References: Secure strong references from professors or professionals who can attest to your abilities and potential.

Tips for a Successful Application 

• Start Early: Research scholarships well in advance and begin preparing your application materials early.
• Tailor Your Application: Customize your statement and other documents to highlight your unique strengths and how they align with each scholarship’s goals.
• Meet Deadlines: Be sure to submit your application before the deadline. Late applications are often not considered.
• Proofread Carefully: Double-check your application for any errors or typos.

Securing a scholarship to study in the UK requires dedication, preparation, and persistence. By understanding the various options available and following a strategic approach, you can significantly increase your chances of obtaining financial support. Start early, stay organized, and keep your eye on the prize. The UK offers a wealth of opportunities, and with the right scholarship, you can embark on an educational journey that will shape your future.

For personalized guidance and support in your scholarship application process, contact Walk International. 

Good luck!

FAQs

1. Are there scholarships for specific academic fields?

Yes, many scholarships are targeted toward specific fields of study, such as science, engineering, business, or the arts.

2. Is there a minimum academic score requirement?

Yes, there is typically a minimum academic score requirement for UK scholarships aimed at Indian students. Most scholarships will have a minimum percentage requirement, often in the range of 70% to 85% in your previous studies. Highly competitive scholarships might have even stricter requirements, demanding scores closer to 85% or even higher.

3. What documents are needed for a scholarship application?

For UK scholarship applications, expect to provide:

Academic transcripts (proof of your grades)

Reference letters (supporting recommendations)

Statement of purpose (your goals and why you deserve the scholarship)

English language test scores (IELTS or TOEFL)

Additional documents may vary (portfolio, work experience certificates)