AbijahThinking about studying in the UK but worried about the costs? You’re not alone. The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London and yes, the price tag can feel intimidating.
But here’s the good news: there are plenty of fully funded scholarships out there for international students, and some of them are surprisingly generous.
This isn’t just about saving money. A fully funded scholarship means freedom, freedom from juggling multiple part-time jobs, freedom to focus on research or internships, and even freedom to travel across Europe while you’re at it.
Let’s break it down and look at the best UK universities that offer these scholarships, what they cover, and why they might be the right fit for you.
Why Study in the UK Anyway?
Before we talk about scholarships, let’s be real for a second. Why the UK?
For starters, UK degrees are typically shorter, three years for a bachelor’s and one year for a master’s. That alone cuts tuition and living costs compared to the US or Canada. Plus, the UK is ridiculously diverse.
In cities like London, Manchester, or Edinburgh, you’ll hear dozens of languages on a single bus ride.
And then there’s the academic reputation. UK universities consistently rank in the top 10 globally. Whether you want to study AI, literature, business, or medicine, the UK is a powerhouse for research and innovation.
Top Universities Offering Fully Funded Scholarships
Alright, now for the real question where can you actually get a fully funded scholarship as an international student?
Here’s a list of universities you should have on your radar:
1. University of Oxford
The name speaks for itself. Oxford offers several scholarship schemes, but the most famous for international students is the Rhodes Scholarship. It covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Living stipend
- Flights to and from the UK
Getting in is tough (think Nobel laureate tough), but if you’re academically exceptional and passionate about creating social impact, it’s worth a shot.
Bonus: Oxford also has Clarendon Scholarships, which are automatically considered when you apply for a graduate program.
2. University of Cambridge
Cambridge has the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It’s one of the most prestigious awards globally.
It covers:
- Full cost of studying at Cambridge
- Maintenance allowance
- Travel costs
- Even additional discretionary funding for fieldwork
This one’s for students who want to tackle big global challenges climate change, public health, tech ethics you name it.
3. Imperial College London
If you’re into STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), Imperial is a no-brainer. Their President’s PhD Scholarship is fully funded and aimed at students with exceptional research potential.
Think of it as a golden ticket:
- Covers tuition
- Offers a generous stipend
- Includes research costs
4. London School of Economics (LSE)
LSE isn’t just for future politicians, it’s perfect if you’re into economics, law, sociology, or international relations.
Their Graduate Support Scheme and other targeted funds can cover full fees and living costs for students from lower-income backgrounds. Plus, LSE’s location means you’re at the heart of global finance and policy making.
5. University of Edinburgh
Scotland has its own charm and sometimes lower living costs than London. Edinburgh’s Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship covers the difference between UK and overseas tuition fees. Pair that with other funding sources and you could end up studying there nearly cost-free.
6. University of Warwick
Warwick offers Chancellor’s International Scholarships for PhD students. These are fully funded and competitive but offer excellent support for research students.
Other Funding Opportunities Worth Mentioning
Not all scholarships come directly from universities. A few national-level programs could also cover your costs:
Chevening Scholarships – funded by the UK government, covering full tuition, flights, and living expenses for one-year master’s programs.
Commonwealth Scholarships – for students from eligible countries within the Commonwealth, covering full tuition and living costs.
Marshall Scholarships – for US citizens, supporting graduate study in the UK.
How to Improve Your Chances
Here’s the thing: these scholarships are competitive. Really competitive. But that doesn’t mean they’re out of reach.
Start early: Most scholarships have deadlines 6–12 months before the program starts.
Tell your story: Scholarship committees love a compelling personal statement why you care about your field, what you’ve done so far, and how you’ll make an impact.
Line up strong references: Professors, employers, or mentors who can vouch for your character and potential can make or break your application.
Proofread everything: Spelling mistakes in a scholarship essay? Not a good look.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best universities in the UK with fully funded scholarships for international students might feel overwhelming at first, but it’s absolutely doable with the right strategy. Whether it’s Oxford’s Rhodes, Cambridge’s Gates Scholarship, or the UK government’s Chevening award, there’s a path out there that fits your story.
Top 10 Universities in Europe to Study for Free as an International Student
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