There are several scholarships for Masters in UK that can help reduce the cost of studying. Popular options include Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Masters Scholarships, GREAT Scholarships, and various university-specific funding opportunities.
Many scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, or financial need. Depending on the scholarship, they may cover full or partial tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, or a combination of these benefits.
In this guide, you'll explore the best scholarships for Masters in UK for Indian students, including government-funded, university-specific, and private scholarships, along with their eligibility, benefits, and application process.
Types of Scholarships for Masters in UK
There are several scholarships available for international students and for many applicants, especially those looking for scholarships for Masters in UK for Indian students, exploring multiple scholarship types increases the chances of securing financial support.
Understanding the following categories can help you identify the funding option that best matches your academic background, financial needs, and career aspirations.
Government-Funded Scholarships
These are financed by UK government or government-backed organizations to attract talented international students. These scholarships for Indian students for Masters in UK are highly competitive and often provide financial support.
These scholarships are offered directly by UK universities to attract outstanding international students, but eligibility and funding vary by institution and academic program.
Coverage typically includes:
Partial or full tuition fee waiver
Merit-based tuition discounts
Living allowance (selected scholarships)
Department-specific grants
Popular University Scholarships:
Global Futures Scholarship (University of Manchester)
Think Big Postgraduate Awards (University of Bristol)
Edinburgh Global Masters Scholarships
Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships (University of Law)
UCL Global Masters Scholarship
Imperial College President's Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships
They are awarded to students with exceptional academic records, leadership qualities, research achievements, or extracurricular activities.
Best Scholarships for Masters in UK For Indian Students
Many of these programs provide a full scholarship in UK, covering tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and other study-related costs. Following are some of the popular government scholarships for masters in UK for Indian students.
1. Chevening Scholarships
One of UK's most prestigious government scholarships for outstanding international students to pursue a one-year masters degree in UK.
Eligibility Criteria
Have a bachelors degree.
Have at least 2 years of work experience (including internships or freelance work).
Apply to three eligible UK masters courses.
Coverage
Full tuition fees
Monthly living allowance
Round-trip airfare
UK visa fee
Arrival and departure allowance
Travel support for Chevening events
2. Commonwealth Masters Scholarships
A fully funded UK government scholarship for talented students from Commonwealth countries who need financial support to study a masters degree.
Eligibility Criteria
Hold a bachelors degree with good academic performance.
Show financial need.
Apply through an approved nominating agency or university.
A scholarship jointly funded by UK Government, the British Council, and UK universities that helps reduce tuition fees for international students.
Eligibility Criteria
Apply for a one-year taught masters program.
Have a bachelors degree with a good academic record.
Meet the university's admission requirements.
Coverage
At least GBP 10,000 (approximately INR 11.5 lakh) towards tuition fees
Does not cover living expenses, flights, or visa costs
4. Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Offered by the University of Cambridge, this scholarship fully funds outstanding international students pursuing a masters degree.
Eligibility Criteria
Have a high academic record.
Show leadership potential and a commitment to making a positive impact.
Coverage
Full tuition fees
Annual living allowance
Round-trip airfare
UK visa fees
NHS health surcharge
5. Clarendon Fund Scholarships
Provided by the Oxford University, the Clarendon Fund Scholarship provides full financial support to outstanding international students pursuing a masters degree.
Eligibility Criteria
No separate scholarship application is required.
Selection is based on academic performance and overall application.
Coverage
Full tuition fees
College fees
Annual living allowance
6. Think Big Postgraduate Awards
Offered by the University of Bristol, this one helps international students reduce the cost of studying for a masters degree.
Eligibility Criteria
Meet the university's admission requirements.
Complete the scholarship application.
Coverage
Tuition fee waiver of GBP 6,500, GBP 13,000, or GBP 26,000 (approximately INR 7.48 lakh, 14.95, 29.90 lakh)
Living expenses, flights, and visa costs are not included.
7. Edinburgh Global Masters Scholarships
Provided by the University of Edinburgh, this scholarship helps high-achieving international students lower their tuition fees for a masters degree.
Eligibility Criteria
Have a strong academic record.
Submit the scholarship application before the deadline.
Eligibility Criteria for Masters Scholarships in UK
To qualify for scholarships, you must meet the eligibility requirements set by the scholarship provider and the university. While the criteria vary, most scholarships consider your academic performance, English language skills, work experience, and overall profile.
1. Academic Requirements
Most UK masters scholarships require a strong academic record.
Eligibility Criteria
Hold a recognized bachelors degree.
Most scholarships expect the equivalent of UK Upper Second-Class (2:1) degree.
For Indian students, this usually means 60%-65% or above, depending on the university.
Highly competitive scholarships like Gates Cambridge and Clarendon Fund often prefer students with 70% or higher.
2. English Language Requirements
You must meet the English language requirements of your chosen university.
Eligibility Criteria
Submit a validIELTS, PTE, or TOEFL score (if required).
Most universities ask for an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 or an equivalent score in other accepted tests.
Some universities may waive this requirement if you meet their exemption criteria.
3. Work Experience (If Applicable)
Some scholarships for Indian students for Masters in UK require professional work experience, while others do not.
Eligibility Criteria
Chevening Scholarships require at least two years of work experience.
Work experience may include full-time jobs, part-time work, internships, volunteering, or freelance projects.
Most university scholarships do not require prior work experience.
4. Leadership & Extracurricular Activities
Many prestigious scholarships look beyond academics and value leadership potential.
Eligibility Criteria
Demonstrate leadership skills through work, volunteering, student clubs, or community projects.
Highlight extracurricular achievements, awards, or social impact.
Be able to explain how your masters degree will help you contribute to your community or career.
5. Financial Need (For Selected Scholarships)
Need-based scholarships consider your financial background.
Eligibility Criteria
Show that you need financial support to study in UK.
Provide financial documents if requested.
This requirement mainly applies to scholarships such as the Commonwealth Masters Scholarship.
Documents Required
The following includes the list of documents needed before applying in the scholarships.
How to Get Scholarships for Masters in UK for Indian students?
Applying for UK masters scholarship usually involves submitting separate applications for both your university and your scholarship. Following a planned timeline can help you stay ahead of deadlines.
Step 1: Research Scholarships
Shortlist scholarships that match your profile.
Compare government, university, and subject-specific scholarships.
Check scholarship deadlines and funding benefits.
Visit the university's Fees and Funding page for available awards.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Collect all required documents in advance.
Take your English language test (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE) if required.
Request recommendation letters early to avoid delays.
Step 3: Apply to UK Universities
Apply to your preferred masters programs through the university portal.
Some scholarships require a university application or offer before you can apply for funding.
Submit your applications as early as possible.
Step 4: Write Your Scholarship Essays
Tailor each essay to the scholarship you're applying for.
Highlight your achievements, career goals, and future plans.
Explain how the scholarship will help you achieve your objectives.
Step 5: Submit Scholarship Applications
Complete the scholarship application before the deadline.
Apply through the official government or university scholarship portal.
Double-check that all required documents are uploaded.
Step 6: Attend Interviews (If Required)
Prepare for scholarship interviews.
Be ready to discuss your goals, achievements, and reasons for choosing UK.
Step 7: Track Your Application
Monitor your application status regularly.
Respond quickly to any requests for additional information.
Wait for the final scholarship decision and accept the offer if selected.
Scholarship Application Timeline
The scholarship application process usually begins 12-15 months before your intended intake. Here's a recommended timeline to guide your preparation.
Timeline
What to Do
August - September
Research scholarships, shortlist universities, and check eligibility criteria.
September - October
Take IELTS/PTE/TOEFL (if required) and prepare your application documents.
October - December
Apply to UK universities and submit your admission applications.
November - January
Write and finalize your scholarship essays, SOP, and personal statements.
January - May
Submit scholarship applications based on individual deadlines and attend interviews (if shortlisted).
March - July
Track your application status, receive scholarship decisions, and complete the acceptance process.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship
Winning a scholarship in UK is highly competitive. Along with strong academics, a well-planned application can significantly improve your chances of selection.
1. Write Impactful Scholarship Essays
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain your achievements.
Focus on real examples instead of general statements.
Include measurable results wherever possible.
2. Align Your Career Goals
Explain how your masters degree will help you achieve your long-term career goals.
For scholarships like Commonwealth, connect your future plans to your home country's development.
Mention how you plan to create a positive impact after graduation.
3. Build a Strong Personal Profile
Highlight leadership roles, volunteering, internships, and community service.
Show how your experiences align with the values of the scholarship or university.
Include your potential to become a future leader in your field.
4. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation
Choose professors or managers who know your work well.
Share your achievements and career goals.
Ask them to provide specific examples of your academic ability, leadership, and professional skills.
5. Apply Early
Apply to UK universities between October and December whenever possible.
Submit scholarship applications before the deadline.
Applying early gives you enough time to secure admission offers and complete any additional requirements.
Conclusion
Pursuing a masters degree in UK can be a valuable investment in your future, and the right scholarship can make it much more affordable. From university-specific and merit-based awards to fully funded government programs like Chevening and Commonwealth scholarship for Masters in UK, there are plenty of funding opportunities available for international students.
The key is to start your research early, choose scholarships that match your profile, prepare a strong application, and submit everything before the deadlines. With careful planning and a well-crafted application, you can improve your chances of securing a scholarship for Masters in UK and take the next step toward achieving your academic and career goals.
Apply for fully funded scholarships like Chevening, Commonwealth Masters Scholarships, and Gates Cambridge. Maintain strong academics, submit a strong SOP, and apply before the deadlines.
How to get 100% scholarship to study in UK?
Meet the eligibility criteria, have a strong academic profile, and apply for fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and travel.
How to win a scholarship in UK?
Maintain good grades, highlight leadership experience, submit a strong SOP and LORs, and apply early.
How much percentage is required for a scholarship in UK?
Most scholarships require 60%-65% or above, while top scholarships often prefer 70%+.
Is it hard to get a scholarship in UK?
Yes, many scholarships are competitive, but a strong application can improve your chances.
What is the most prestigious scholarship?
Chevening Scholarships, Gates Cambridge Scholarships, and Rhodes Scholarships are among the most prestigious.
Which country gives 100% scholarships?
Countries like UK, Germany, Canada, and Australia offer fully funded scholarships for international students.
What is the hardest scholarship to get?
Rhodes Scholarships, Gates Cambridge Scholarships, and Chevening Scholarships are among the most competitive.
Which country scholarship is easy?
No scholarship is easy, but university-specific scholarships generally have more opportunities than highly competitive government scholarships.
What scholarship is the easiest to get?
University-specific and partial scholarships are often easier to obtain than fully funded government scholarships.
Which scholarship gives the most money?
Fully funded scholarships such as Chevening, Commonwealth Masters Scholarships, and Gates Cambridge Scholarships offer the highest financial support.
upGrad Abroad Editorial Team |4852 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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