Pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in the United Kingdom is a dream for many aspiring global leaders. The UK’s reputation for academic excellence, combined with its strong business environment and access to global networks, makes it one of the most sought-after destinations for MBA studies. British universities offer programs that emphasize leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship—skills that are vital for success in today’s dynamic business world.
However, studying in the UK can be expensive. With tuition fees ranging from £25,000 to over £60,000 per year, plus living costs, many international students find the financial burden overwhelming. Fortunately, there are numerous MBA scholarships available that provide full or partial funding for talented and ambitious students. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and professional achievement, allowing students to focus on their education rather than financial constraints.
This article explores the best MBA scholarships in the UK for international applicants in 2025, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and application tips.
Why Study for an MBA in the UK?
The UK stands out as a global hub for business and education. Here are a few reasons why international students choose to pursue an MBA there:
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Global Recognition: UK MBA programs are internationally accredited and recognized by leading employers worldwide.
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Diverse Environment: Students study alongside peers from over 150 countries, gaining cross-cultural communication and networking skills.
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Career Opportunities: The UK has strong links with industries and multinational corporations, offering numerous internship and job opportunities.
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Shorter Duration: Unlike many countries where MBAs take two years, most UK programs last just one year—saving time and money.
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Networking and Alumni: British universities boast powerful alumni networks that open doors to global career prospects.
1. Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), is one of the most prestigious awards available for international students pursuing postgraduate degrees, including MBAs.
Key Benefits:
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Full tuition fees for one year.
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Monthly living allowance.
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Travel and visa costs.
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Additional grants for attending events and conferences.
Eligibility:
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Must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country.
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Must have at least two years of work experience.
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Strong academic record and leadership potential.
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Commitment to returning home for a minimum of two years after graduation.
Chevening Scholars often pursue MBAs at top UK universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College, and London Business School, making it one of the best routes to a fully funded MBA in the UK.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarships, funded by the UK Government through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), are awarded to talented students from developing Commonwealth nations. These scholarships aim to support individuals who can contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.
Key Benefits:
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Full tuition fees.
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Living allowance.
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Travel and visa expenses.
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Thesis and study travel grants.
Eligibility:
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Must be a citizen or permanent resident of a Commonwealth country.
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Strong academic background with a relevant undergraduate degree.
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Demonstrated potential to contribute to national development.
Although most Commonwealth Scholarships are for master’s programs in specific fields, several UK universities offer MBA placements through this initiative, making it a top choice for developing country applicants.
3. Oxford University – Saïd Business School MBA Scholarships
The University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School offers multiple scholarships for exceptional MBA candidates worldwide. These awards are among the most competitive and prestigious in the world.
Notable Scholarships Include:
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The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship: Covers full tuition fees plus a generous living stipend for both the MBA and the preceding master’s degree (1+1 program).
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Skoll Scholarship for Social Entrepreneurship: For candidates who have demonstrated impact in social ventures and entrepreneurial leadership.
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Oxford-Adara Foundation MBA Scholarship: Supports female candidates from developing countries who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership.
Coverage:
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Full tuition fees (up to £63,000).
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Living stipend (up to £15,000).
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Access to professional development and networking events.
These scholarships attract leaders who aim to drive social, economic, and environmental change through business innovation.
4. Cambridge University – Judge Business School MBA Scholarships
The Cambridge Judge Business School offers a range of scholarships to attract global talent. The university emphasizes leadership potential, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence.
Notable Scholarships Include:
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Cambridge MBA Scholarship: Offered by the Boustany Foundation, covering up to 75% of tuition fees.
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Forté Foundation Fellowship: For exceptional female candidates who demonstrate leadership in business.
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Sainsbury Management Fellowships: For engineers pursuing an MBA in management or entrepreneurship.
Coverage:
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Full or partial tuition funding.
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Living and travel support for selected awards.
These scholarships open doors for future leaders committed to innovation, sustainability, and global progress.
5. London Business School (LBS) Scholarships
London Business School (LBS) consistently ranks among the world’s top MBA programs. LBS offers generous funding options through merit-based and need-based scholarships.
Notable Scholarships:
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LBS Fund Scholarship: Based on academic merit and leadership potential.
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Laidlaw Women’s Leadership Fund: Empowers women leaders in business.
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African Leadership Scholarship: For outstanding students from African countries.
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London Business School Merit Scholarship: Automatically considered for all applicants based on academic excellence.
Coverage:
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Up to full tuition fees.
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Additional financial support for living costs in select cases.
LBS graduates benefit from strong ties with global employers and a powerful international alumni network.
6. Imperial College Business School MBA Scholarships
Imperial College London offers several scholarships for international MBA students who demonstrate excellence, innovation, and leadership.
Key Scholarships:
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Imperial Business School Dean’s Excellence Award: Based on academic and professional achievements.
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Africa Regional Scholarship: For students from African countries contributing to economic growth.
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Forté Fellowships for Women: Promoting female leadership in business.
Coverage:
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Full or partial tuition fee waivers.
Imperial’s MBA focuses on technology, innovation, and sustainability—key themes for future business leaders in a digital world.
7. Warwick Business School (WBS) MBA Scholarships
The University of Warwick offers one of the UK’s most respected MBA programs. Warwick Business School provides a range of scholarships to attract outstanding international applicants.
Scholarships Include:
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WBS Global Leadership Scholarship: For students showing exceptional leadership potential.
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Women in Business Scholarship: Supporting female candidates in leadership roles.
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High Achiever Scholarship: For students with excellent academic and professional backgrounds.
Coverage:
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25% to 100% of tuition fees depending on the award.
WBS encourages global collaboration and leadership through a practical, research-driven curriculum.
8. University of Edinburgh Business School MBA Scholarships
The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships for international MBA students who exhibit outstanding academic and professional profiles.
Scholarships Include:
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Dean’s Excellence Scholarship: Covers up to 50% of tuition fees.
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African and South Asian Scholarships: Targeted at students from developing regions.
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Entrepreneurship Scholarships: For candidates who demonstrate business innovation.
Coverage:
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Up to full tuition fees.
Edinburgh’s MBA program blends innovation, global leadership, and sustainability, making it ideal for students seeking a modern and ethical business education.
9. Cranfield School of Management MBA Scholarships
Cranfield’s MBA program is renowned for its focus on practical business experience and leadership development.
Key Scholarships:
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Cranfield MBA Scholarship for Outstanding Students: Based on merit and leadership.
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UK Government Chevening Partnership Scholarships: Jointly funded with the Chevening program.
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Women Leaders Scholarship: For women advancing leadership and diversity in business.
Coverage:
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Up to full tuition fees.
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Living allowance in select programs.
Cranfield’s close connections with global industries make it one of the best choices for career-oriented students.
10. Durham University Business School MBA Scholarships
Durham University offers merit-based scholarships to international MBA students with strong leadership and academic records.
Scholarship Options:
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Dean’s Scholarship for Excellence: Covers up to 100% of tuition.
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Women in Business Award: Encourages gender balance in management education.
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Regional Scholarships: For students from Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Coverage:
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Up to full tuition fees depending on merit.
Durham’s MBA emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and strategic thinking, preparing graduates for leadership in a globalized economy.
How to Secure an MBA Scholarship in the UK
To maximize your chances of winning a scholarship, consider the following tips:
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Apply Early: Many scholarships close months before the MBA application deadline.
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Highlight Leadership and Impact: Showcase your contributions at work and in your community.
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Demonstrate Academic Excellence: Strong undergraduate results and test scores (GMAT/GRE) improve eligibility.
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Craft a Powerful Personal Statement: Tell your story authentically—explain your goals, vision, and reasons for choosing the UK.
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Secure Strong References: Recommendations from senior professionals or professors add credibility.
Conclusion
An MBA in the UK offers unmatched opportunities for personal growth, professional advancement, and global impact. With generous scholarship programs like Chevening, Commonwealth, Oxford Saïd, and London Business School awards, international students can achieve their academic dreams without financial stress.
These MBA scholarships are not just about funding—they represent a gateway to a world-class education, lifelong networks, and the chance to become a transformative leader in the global business landscape.