The United Kingdom is one of the most sought-after destinations for international students pursuing higher education. With its centuries-old universities, cutting-edge research facilities, and globally recognized qualifications, the UK remains a symbol of academic excellence and innovation. However, the high cost of studying abroad—covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses—can discourage many talented students from applying.
Fortunately, the Government of the United Kingdom offers a variety of fully funded and partially funded scholarships to support both undergraduate and postgraduate students. These scholarships are designed to attract the brightest minds from around the world, promote cultural exchange, and contribute to sustainable global development.
This article provides an in-depth look at the most prestigious Government of UK scholarships available for bachelor’s and postgraduate students in 2025, along with eligibility requirements, benefits, and application insights.
Why Choose the UK for Higher Education?
Before exploring specific scholarships, it’s important to understand why studying in the UK is such an attractive choice.
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World-Class Education: The UK hosts some of the best universities globally, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and the London School of Economics.
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Global Recognition: A UK degree is respected worldwide, opening doors to top career and research opportunities.
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Diverse and Inclusive Culture: The UK welcomes students from over 180 countries, offering an enriching multicultural experience.
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Career Prospects: With the Graduate Route Visa, international students can remain in the UK for up to two years (three for PhD holders) after completing their studies to gain work experience.
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Comprehensive Support Systems: Universities provide academic mentorship, language support, and personal development programs to help students succeed.
1. Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarship Program is the UK government’s flagship international scholarship scheme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations. It aims to develop future global leaders by providing opportunities to pursue a fully funded one-year master’s degree in any field at any UK university.
Key Benefits:
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Full university tuition fees
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Monthly living stipend
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Travel and visa costs
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Arrival and departure allowances
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Networking opportunities with global leaders
Eligibility:
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Applicants must be citizens of a Chevening-eligible country.
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Must hold an undergraduate degree that allows entry to a UK master’s program.
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Demonstrated leadership skills and at least two years of work experience.
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A commitment to return home for a minimum of two years after studies.
Chevening Scholars are chosen for their leadership potential, academic excellence, and commitment to creating positive change in their home countries.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) administers several UK government-funded scholarships for students from developing Commonwealth countries. These awards aim to promote education, research, and sustainable development across member nations.
Types of Commonwealth Scholarships:
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Master’s Scholarships: For students seeking postgraduate degrees in fields that support sustainable development.
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PhD Scholarships: For research students pursuing advanced academic work.
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Shared Scholarships: Jointly funded by UK universities and CSC, supporting master’s programs in development-related subjects.
Coverage:
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Full tuition and examination fees
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Monthly living stipend
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Airfare to and from the UK
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Research and travel grants
Eligibility:
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Must be a citizen or permanent resident of a Commonwealth country.
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Must hold a first degree (upper second-class or higher).
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Must demonstrate financial need and commitment to home-country development.
Commonwealth Scholarships remain one of the most inclusive and impactful programs for international students aspiring to study in the UK.
3. GREAT Scholarships
The GREAT Scholarships, funded jointly by the UK government (through the British Council) and UK universities, are offered to students from selected countries pursuing either undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Key Benefits:
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Coverage of up to £10,000 in tuition fees.
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Available for one-year master’s or full undergraduate programs.
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Opportunities for academic and cultural exchange.
Eligibility:
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Must be a citizen of an eligible country (including Egypt, India, China, and several developing nations).
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Must meet the academic requirements for a UK university program.
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Must demonstrate interest in contributing to their country’s development.
The GREAT Scholarships are particularly attractive because they combine academic opportunity with cultural diplomacy, fostering global cooperation between the UK and partner countries.
4. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships
Funded by the Scottish Government, the Saltire Scholarships aim to attract bright international students to study at Scottish universities. These scholarships support postgraduate students who demonstrate leadership and innovation in fields like technology, science, healthcare, and renewable energy.
Coverage:
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Up to £8,000 toward tuition fees.
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Available for full-time master’s programs in Scotland.
Eligibility:
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Applicants must be citizens of eligible countries such as India, Pakistan, China, and Canada.
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Must have an offer from a Scottish university.
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Must show an interest in leadership and sustainable development.
This scholarship highlights Scotland’s commitment to fostering innovation and building long-term partnerships with international scholars.
5. Marshall Scholarships
The Marshall Scholarship is one of the UK’s most prestigious programs, established by the UK government to strengthen ties between the United Kingdom and the United States. It enables exceptional American students to study for a graduate degree at any UK university.
Coverage:
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Full tuition fees
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Living stipend
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Research and travel grants
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Airfare between the USA and the UK
Eligibility:
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Open to U.S. citizens only.
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Must hold an excellent academic record (minimum GPA of 3.7).
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Must have completed a bachelor’s degree within the past three years.
Marshall Scholars are chosen not only for academic excellence but also for their potential to contribute to public service and leadership in their respective fields.
6. Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarships
The Global Wales Scholarship is funded by the Welsh Government, universities in Wales, and other partners. It provides financial assistance to international students enrolling in full-time master’s programs at Welsh universities.
Coverage:
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Up to £10,000 toward tuition fees.
Eligibility:
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Open to students from India, Vietnam, the USA, and EU countries.
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Must have received an offer from a participating Welsh university.
This scholarship reflects Wales’ growing reputation as a welcoming and innovative education destination.
7. The British Council Women in STEM Scholarships
This initiative, supported by the UK Government and British Council, encourages women from eligible countries to pursue postgraduate studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields at leading UK universities.
Coverage:
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Full tuition fees
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Monthly living stipend
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Travel and visa costs
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Childcare and dependent support
Eligibility:
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Applicants must identify as female and come from eligible countries in South Asia, East Asia, or the Americas.
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Must have relevant academic and professional experience in a STEM field.
The scholarship aims to empower women to become leaders and innovators in technology and research.
How to Apply for UK Government Scholarships
Applying for UK government scholarships requires careful planning and preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to increase your chances of success:
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Research Early: Begin at least 12–18 months before your intended program start date.
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Choose Your Course and University: Ensure your selected program aligns with your academic goals and the scholarship’s focus areas.
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Check Eligibility Criteria: Each scholarship has specific requirements—verify your nationality, academic qualifications, and experience.
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Prepare a Strong Personal Statement: Highlight your achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to your community’s development.
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Secure References: Obtain strong letters of recommendation from professors or employers.
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Submit Before Deadlines: Late submissions are never accepted; always apply ahead of time.
Conclusion
The Government of the United Kingdom remains deeply committed to promoting global education, diversity, and leadership development through its range of scholarships for bachelor’s and postgraduate students.
Whether you aspire to become a Chevening Scholar, a Commonwealth Fellow, or a recipient of the GREAT or Saltire Scholarship, these programs provide not only financial support but also life-changing experiences, networking opportunities, and a platform to make a global impact.