How to Find Fully Funded Masters Scholarships in the UK

Pursuing a master’s degree in the United Kingdom is a dream for many international students, but the cost can be a major obstacle. Thankfully, several fully funded scholarships in the UK cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and more. Knowing where to search and how to apply strategically can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through the most effective steps to find and secure fully funded master’s scholarships in the UK.

 

Understand What “Fully Funded” Really Means

A fully funded scholarship covers the entire cost of your postgraduate studies. This usually includes:

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly living stipend
• Travel allowances
• Visa and health insurance support
• Research or thesis funding (in some cases)

These scholarships are typically awarded by government programs, universities, or international organizations seeking to attract outstanding global talent.

 

Start with Prestigious UK Government Scholarships

The UK government offers some of the world’s most competitive fully funded programs:

• Chevening Scholarships: Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Chevening covers full tuition, living expenses, and flights. It targets future leaders with at least two years of work experience.
• Commonwealth Scholarships: Designed for students from Commonwealth countries, these awards cover tuition, airfare, and a living stipend. They are highly competitive and prioritize students who plan to contribute to national development after their studies.
• Scotland Saltire Scholarships: Though not always fully funded, these provide generous awards to students from select countries pursuing master’s programs in areas like science, technology, and renewable energy.

These government-backed scholarships are reliable starting points for international applicants.

 

Explore University-Specific Fully Funded Programs

Many UK universities run fully funded master’s scholarships to attract top-performing students. Some notable examples include:

• Rhodes Scholarship (University of Oxford) – Covers all costs for postgraduate study at Oxford and is one of the most prestigious scholarships in the world.
• Gates Cambridge Scholarship (University of Cambridge) – Fully funds international students pursuing postgraduate degrees at Cambridge.
• Clarendon Fund (University of Oxford) – Offers full scholarships based on academic excellence across all graduate disciplines.
• University of Edinburgh Global Scholarships – Provides full or partial funding for international students with outstanding academic records.

Each university has its own application process, so check their official scholarship pages early.

 

Check Regional and Subject-Specific Scholarships

In addition to general scholarships, many programs focus on specific fields of study or regions. For instance:

• The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship targets students from developing countries for development-related master’s degrees.
• The GREAT Scholarships support students from eligible countries pursuing courses in fields like business, law, and sustainability.
• The Felix Scholarship provides full funding for students from developing countries (particularly India and Africa) to study at top UK universities.

These targeted awards often have fewer applicants, increasing your chances of success.

 

Use University Scholarship Portals and Search Tools

Almost every UK university has a scholarship search portal. Use filters like “international,” “postgraduate,” and “fully funded” to narrow down options. You can also explore centralized platforms like the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) or the British Council’s scholarship directory for updated opportunities.

Set aside time to review eligibility requirements, especially for GPA, nationality, and course criteria.

 

Prepare a Strong Scholarship Application

Finding scholarships is only half the battle—winning them requires preparation and strategy. Focus on:

• Personal Statement: Highlight leadership, academic excellence, and your long-term goals.
• References: Choose recommenders who know your work and can vouch for your achievements.
• Interview Preparation: Practice explaining why you chose the UK, your field of study, and how it aligns with your career goals.

Tailor each application to the values and mission of the scholarship provider.

 

Stay Organized with Deadlines and Requirements

Most UK master’s scholarships open between August and November, with deadlines extending into early January or February. Create a timeline for:

• Gathering transcripts and recommendation letters
• Drafting essays
• Meeting English proficiency requirements (like IELTS or TOEFL)
• Submitting early to avoid last-minute technical issues

Being organized ensures you don’t miss critical opportunities.

 

Consider Research Assistantships and Fellowships

If you don’t secure a traditional scholarship, you can explore university-funded research assistantships or departmental fellowships. These often come with tuition waivers and stipends for helping professors with academic projects. They can serve as a backdoor to a fully funded study while gaining research experience.

 

Final Thoughts

Finding fully funded master’s scholarships in the UK requires patience, research, and strategic planning. Start early, explore multiple funding sources, and tailor each application to the scholarship’s mission. With determination and a strong personal profile, you can secure a life-changing opportunity to study in one of the world’s most prestigious academic destinations.

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