Masters Degree Scholarships UK – The United Kingdom remains one of the most desirable destinations for international students pursuing postgraduate education. With its world-renowned universities, globally respected degrees, and diverse multicultural environment, a master’s degree from the UK can open doors to endless career opportunities.
However, the cost of studying in the UK—ranging from £10,000 to over £30,000 in tuition alone—can be a barrier for many. Fortunately, Master’s degree scholarships in the UK offer a robust solution, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education without the financial burden.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we’ll explore the best fully funded and partial scholarship opportunities, top universities that offer them, how to apply, eligibility requirements, and insider tips to increase your chances of success.
Why Choose a Master’s Degree in the UK?
Getting a masters degree scholarships in uk, comes with numerous advantages:
- 1-Year Programs: Unlike other countries, where a master’s degree takes 2 years, most UK master’s programs are just 12 months long.
- Globally Recognised Institutions: Home to Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College, and more.
- Career Acceleration: Strong industry links and job placements.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities: The UK Graduate Route allows international students to stay and work for up to 2 years after graduation.
- Diverse Learning Environment: Study alongside students from over 150 countries.
Types of Master’s Scholarships in the UK
Understanding the types of masters degree scholarships in uk available helps you target the right opportunities:
1. Government-Funded Scholarships: Offered by the UK government or through bilateral agreements with other countries.
2. University-Specific Scholarships: Each UK university has its own set of scholarships for international students.
3. External Organisation & Charity Scholarships: Funded by trusts, foundations, and international NGOs.
4. Merit-Based Scholarships: Based on academic excellence, leadership, or other achievements.
5. Need-Based Scholarships: For students from disadvantaged backgrounds or developing countries.
Top Fully Funded Master’s Degree Scholarships UK (2025)
1. Chevening Scholarships
- Sponsor: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel costs, visa, and more
- Eligibility:
- Undergraduate degree (equivalent to 2:1)
- 2+ years of work experience
- Demonstrated leadership
- Countries: 160+ eligible
- Deadline: August–November 2024 (for 2025 intake)
- Website: chevening.org
2. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
- Sponsor: UK government (FCDO)
- Coverage: Full tuition, travel, living allowance
- Eligibility:
- Citizens of eligible Commonwealth countries
- Not previously studied in a high-income country
- Focus Areas: Development, sustainability, public health
- Website: cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk
3. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
- Sponsor: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
- University: University of Cambridge
- Coverage: Full tuition, maintenance, airfare, visa, and more
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic record, commitment to improving lives
- Highly competitive
4. GREAT Scholarships
- Sponsor: British Council & UK Government
- Value: £10,000 toward tuition fees
- Eligibility:
- Applicants from selected countries (India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.)
- Applied to a participating UK university
- Universities: 40+ participating each year
5. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships
- Sponsor: Scottish Government
- Value: £8,000 toward tuition
- Target Countries: India, China, Pakistan, Canada, USA, Japan
- Eligibility:
- Offers from eligible Scottish universities
- Willing to become a future global leader
Top UK Universities Offering Master’s Degree Scholarships
Below are UK universities with outstanding scholarship programs for international master’s students.
1. University of Oxford
- Clarendon Fund: Full tuition and generous stipend
- Reach Oxford Scholarship: For students from low-income countries
- Eligibility: Academic excellence + financial need
2. University of Cambridge
- Gates Cambridge Scholarship (see above)
- Cambridge International Scholarships
- Cambridge Trust: Hundreds of partial and complete scholarships for overseas students
3. Imperial College London
- President’s Scholarship
- Departmental Scholarships (e.g., engineering, business)
- Focus on science, tech, and innovation
4. University of Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships
- Mastercard Foundation Scholarship: For African students (fully funded)
- Strong emphasis on global leadership and public service
5. University of Warwick
- Chancellor’s International Scholarships
- Warwick Graduate School Awards
- Covers up to full tuition and sometimes includes a stipend
6. University of Bristol
- Think Big Postgraduate Scholarships
- Up to £20,000 toward tuition fees
7. University of Manchester
- Equity and Merit Scholarships: For African countries
- Covers tuition, airfare, and living costs
Eligibility Criteria for Master’s Degree Scholarships UK
While each scholarship is different, most require:
- A strong academic record (usually a minimum of 2:1 or equivalent)
- English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Admission offer from a UK university
- Personal statement or SOP
- References (academic or professional)
- Leadership potential or community involvement
How to Apply for Master’s Degree In UK (Scholarships)
Here’s a general roadmap:
- Choose a University & Program
- Start 12–15 months before your desired intake
- Apply for Admission
- Most scholarships require an offer letter first
- Search for Eligible Scholarships
- University portals, scholarship databases, or government sites
- Prepare Application Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement
- Recommendation letters
- CV/resume
- Track Deadlines
- Chevening: Aug–Nov
- University scholarships: Varies by institution
- Trust/charity deadlines: Ongoing
- Prepare for Interviews (if applicable)
Conclusion
The UK is not just a destination for top-tier education — it’s a place where your future can truly begin. And with a wide range of masters degree scholarships UK, finances don’t have to stand in the way of your academic and professional goals.
From prestigious awards like Chevening and Gates Cambridge to university-led initiatives like Clarendon and Think Big, the opportunities are real and within reach.
Start researching today, prepare early, and take your next step toward a transformative education in the UK.
