Top Scholarships in the UK for Master’s Degree Programs – 2025
The United Kingdom remains a leading destination for international students seeking world-class master’s education. While tuition and living costs can be high, a wide range of scholarships can ease the financial burden. This guide showcases the most prestigious UK scholarships available for master’s degree programs in 2025.
1. Chevening Scholarships
- Provider: UK Government
- Eligibility: Open to applicants from Chevening-eligible countries
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, travel allowance, and monthly stipend
- Deadline: Typically November
- Application: Via the official Chevening website
2. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
- Provider: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
- Eligibility: Students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries
- Benefits: Tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses
- Deadline: Usually December
- Application: Through your country’s nominating agency
3. Gates Cambridge Scholarships
- Provider: Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
- Eligibility: Non-UK citizens applying to the University of Cambridge
- Benefits: Full tuition, living expenses, and additional funding for academic development
- Deadline: October (US) / December–January (others)
- Application: Through the Cambridge application portal
4. Rhodes Scholarships
- Provider: Rhodes Trust
- Eligibility: Exceptional students from eligible countries applying to Oxford
- Benefits: Tuition, living stipend, and travel costs
- Deadline: Varies by country (typically October)
- Application: Via the Rhodes website
5. Clarendon Scholarships – University of Oxford
- Provider: University of Oxford
- Eligibility: All graduate applicants are automatically considered
- Benefits: Full tuition fees and generous living allowance
- Deadline: January (varies by program)
- Application: Automatically considered when applying for a master’s at Oxford
6. Edinburgh Global Master’s Scholarships
- Provider: University of Edinburgh
- Eligibility: International applicants to master’s programs
- Benefits: Partial tuition fee support
- Deadline: June
- Application: Via the university’s scholarship portal
7. University of Westminster Scholarships
- Provider: University of Westminster
- Eligibility: International students with academic excellence and financial need
- Benefits: Full tuition fees and living costs
- Deadline: May/June
- Application: Through the university’s online application
8. GREAT Scholarships
- Provider: British Council in partnership with UK universities
- Eligibility: Students from select countries
- Benefits: Up to £10,000 toward tuition fees
- Deadline: Depends on each university
- Application: Direct application to participating universities
9. Bristol University Think Big Scholarships
- Provider: University of Bristol
- Eligibility: International students applying for postgraduate study
- Benefits: Up to £20,000 toward tuition fees
- Deadline: March/June
- Application: Via the University of Bristol application portal
10. Developing Solutions Scholarships – University of Nottingham
- Provider: University of Nottingham
- Eligibility: Citizens from developing countries
- Benefits: Full or partial tuition coverage
- Deadline: May
- Application: Online via the University of Nottingham’s scholarship system
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a UK Scholarship
- Begin Early: Plan ahead and monitor scholarship deadlines.
- Meet All Requirements: Double-check eligibility criteria before applying.
- Craft a Powerful Personal Statement: Highlight academic excellence, career goals, and leadership skills.
- Secure Strong References: Request letters from professors or employers who know you well.
- Apply Broadly: Don’t rely on one scholarship — apply to several for better chances.
Winning a scholarship for a master’s degree in the UK can transform your academic journey. From fully funded programs like Chevening and Rhodes to university-specific awards, 2025 brings plenty of opportunities for international students. With careful planning, a compelling application, and persistence, you can unlock your future at a top UK institution.