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Guide
Thu 9 Jan 2025 • 8 min read
Learn about UK scholarships like Chevening and Rhodes for international students, plus tips from Dukes Plus to boost your application.
Contents
The United Kingdom is internationally renowned as a hub for exceptional education, with numerous opportunities for international students who want to pursue higher education and build their careers. Scholarships play a crucial role in helping students achieve their academic and professional goals. This guide highlights what scholarships are available for international students who plan to work in the UK post-graduation.
The cost of studying and living in the UK can be significant, often encompassing tuition fees, accommodation, daily expenses, and other hidden costs like travel and study materials. Scholarships not only alleviate these financial burdens but also improve your academic and career prospects by providing access to prestigious institutions and robust professional networks.
You should many scholarships are tailored to fields with high employability rates in the UK, such as technology, healthcare, engineering, and green energy sectors. These fields are crucial to the UK’s economic growth, making scholarship recipients highly sought after by employers. Moreover, some scholarships also offer mentoring, internships, and career guidance, further equipping students for post-graduation success.
Below are some of the most prestigious scholarships available to international students in the UK:
Chevening is the UK government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations. It offers full financial support for a one-year Master’s degree in any subject at any UK university. Recipients are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to returning to their home country to contribute positively after their studies.
Applicants must be citizens of a Chevening-eligible country, hold an undergraduate degree, and have at least two years of work experience.
Tuition fees, travel costs to and from the UK, a monthly living allowance, and additional grants to cover essential expenditures.
Applications for the 2025/2026 academic year are currently closed. The selection process spans a minimum of eight months from the application deadline to when applicants are conditionally selected. Prospective applicants should monitor the official Chevening website for updates on the next application cycle.
Funded by the UK government, Commonwealth Scholarships are designed for students from Commonwealth countries who would not otherwise be able to afford to study in the UK. These scholarships are aimed at individuals committed to contributing to the sustainable development of their home countries.
Citizens of Commonwealth countries with a relevant undergraduate degree. Specific eligibility criteria may vary depending on the scholarship category.
Tuition fees, airfare to and from the UK, a living allowance, and additional grants as needed.
While all subjects are considered, there is a focus on areas that align with the Commonwealth’s development themes, such as science and technology for development, strengthening health systems, and promoting global prosperity.
Application deadlines vary by country and nominating agency. Applicants should consult the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s official website or their home country’s nominating agency for specific deadlines and application procedures.
Offered by the British Council in collaboration with UK universities, GREAT Scholarships provide financial support to students from selected countries pursuing postgraduate education in the UK.
Citizens of eligible countries, typically including China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and others. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree and meet the English language requirements of the UK university they plan to attend.
A minimum of £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year Master’s programme.
Varies by university; applicants should check with individual institutions for available courses under this scholarship.
Application deadlines vary by university. Prospective students should check the official British Council website and the specific university’s scholarship page for detailed timelines and application procedures.
Established in 1902, the Rhodes Scholarship is one of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programmes, enabling outstanding young people from around the world to study at the University of Oxford.
Applicants must demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and a commitment to service. Eligibility criteria, including age limits and country-specific requirements, vary; candidates should consult the official Rhodes Trust website for detailed information.
University and college fees, a personal stipend, health insurance, and one economy class airfare to Oxford at the start of the scholarship and one for the return journey upon completion.
Application deadlines vary by country, typically ranging from June to October for the following academic year. Applicants should refer to the Rhodes Trust website for country-specific deadlines and application guidelines.
Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship programme offers full-cost scholarships to outstanding applicants from countries outside the UK to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree in any subject available at the University of Cambridge.
Applicants must demonstrate outstanding intellectual ability, leadership potential, a commitment to improving the lives of others, and a good fit between their qualifications and aspirations and the postgraduate programme at Cambridge.
University Composition Fee, a maintenance allowance (£21,000 for 12 months at the 2024-25 rate), one economy single airfare at both the beginning and end of the course, inbound visa costs, and the cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Applications for the 2025-26 academic year opened on 4 September 2024. Deadlines are course-dependent, either 3 December 2024 or 7 January 2025. Applicants should refer to the University of Cambridge’s Graduate Application Portal for specific course deadlines.
These scholarships provide invaluable opportunities for international students to pursue advanced studies in the UK, contributing to their academic growth and future career prospects. Prospective applicants should consult the official websites of each scholarship programme for the most current information and detailed application procedures.
Scholarships for international students in the UK are designed not only to alleviate financial burdens but also to enhance employability through various support mechanisms:
Many scholarships, particularly those in STEM fields, are structured to equip students with skills that meet the demands of the UK job market. For instance, the UK government offers postgraduate scholarships for international students, such as the Chevening Scholarships, which support study for one-year Master’s degrees at any UK university. These programs often emphasize areas like technology and healthcare, sectors where the UK seeks skilled professionals.
Scholarship programs like Chevening provide access to extensive alumni networks, fostering connections with professionals across various industries. Engaging with this community can lead to mentorship opportunities, collaborations, and insights into job markets. The Chevening Alumni community, for example, offers resources to help graduates stay in touch, achieve their goals, and become leaders in their fields.
Beyond financial support, scholarships often include workshops, seminars, and events focused on career development. These resources are designed to prepare students for the professional world, enhancing their employability in the UK and globally. For example, Chevening provides scholar support to help students prepare for life in the UK and make the most of their time during their studies.
By offering tailored skill development, networking, and professional growth opportunities, these scholarships significantly boost the employability of international students, aligning their capabilities with the needs of the UK workforce.
In summary, UK scholarships for international students are comprehensive packages that combine financial aid with career-oriented support, facilitating a smoother transition into the UK job market post-graduation.
The UK remains a top destination for international students in 2024, thanks to its academic reputation, diverse culture, and strong post-study career opportunities. Recent trends show that the UK continues to attract international students due to its flexible learning options and policies that support international talent.
With the Graduate Route visa allowing students to stay and work in the UK after graduation, and the UK government’s focus on expanding opportunities for international students, there has never been a better time to consider studying in the UK.
Planning is crucial when applying for scholarships. Research potential opportunities and deadlines well in advance to ensure you have ample time to prepare a compelling application.
Thoroughly review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship and ensure you meet them. Submitting an application that aligns perfectly with the criteria will increase your chances of success.
Generic applications rarely stand out. Customise your application to highlight achievements, career goals, and how they align with the scholarship’s objectives. Demonstrating a clear vision can significantly boost your appeal to selectors.
Obtain recommendation letters from credible and influential sources who can vouch for your skills, character, and potential. Ensure your referees understand the scholarship’s purpose and tailor their recommendations accordingly.
Leadership potential is a key criterion for many scholarships. Highlight experiences where you took initiative, led a team, or made a positive impact, both academically and within your community.
Navigating the scholarship application process can be overwhelming, but Dukes Plus is here to guide you through it. We provide tailored support, including identifying suitable scholarships, reviewing and refining your applications, and offering expert advice to enhance your chances of success. With our resources and expertise, you can confidently pursue your academic dreams in the UK. Book a free consultation for more information and start your journey today.
To find out how Dukes Plus can assist with your university application, book a free consultation today.
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