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June 4, 2024 by Amber Wilson

General UK Scholarships for International Students: Make A Wise Choice

Governments worldwide have recently been increasingly focusing on facilitating access to education through various scholarship programmes and funding opportunities. These initiatives also promote awareness about diversity and inclusivity while facilitating education. Hence, they help the scholarship recipients in personal growth, skill development, and societal advancement.  The article explores the various scholarship programmes and fellowship opportunities provided by the Government of the United Kingdom and other collaborative organisations.

UK-Based General Scholarships for International Students

We will now look into the general scholarships offered by the government and various organisations in the UK for international students. The said scholarships are listed below. General Scholarships You Can Get In UK

1. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships for Developing Commonwealth Countries

Commonwealth Scholarships for Master's study in the UK are available to citizens of developing Commonwealth countries. These scholarships are funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID).
Target Universities 
The recipients of the scholarship have to study at:
  • Any universities in the UK.
Target Degrees 
You can apply for the scholarship if you want to pursue:
  • Masters Degree Programmes at UK universities.
Target Group of People 
Citizens of or those granted refugee status by eligible Commonwealth countries:
  • Bangladesh, 
  • Belize, 
  • Botswana, 
  • Cameroon, 
  • Dominica, 
  • Eswatini, 
  • Fiji, 
  • Gabon, 
  • Ghana, 
  • Grenada, 
  • Guyana, 
  • India, 
  • Jamaica, 
  • Kenya, 
  • Kiribati, 
  • Lesotho, 
  • Malawi, 
  • Malaysia, 
  • Maldives, 
  • Mauritius, 
  • Montserrat, 
  • Mozambique, 
  • Namibia, 
  • Nauru, 
  • Nigeria, 
  • Pakistan, 
  • Papua New Guinea, 
  • Rwanda, 
  • Saint Helena, 
  • Saint Lucia, 
  • Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, 
  • Samoa, 
  • Sierra Leone, 
  • Solomon Islands, 
  • South Africa, 
  • Sri Lanka, 
  • Tanzania, 
  • The Gambia, 
  • Togo, 
  • Tonga, 
  • Tuvalu, 
  • Uganda, 
  • Vanuatu, 
  • Zambia
Number of Scholarships 
  • The exact number of scholarships is not specified.
Value of Scholarships 
Each scholarship covers: 
  • Airfare to and from the UK, 
  • Tuition and examination fees, 
  • A stipend, 
  • A thesis grant (if applicable), 
  • A warm clothing allowance, etc.
Eligibility Criteria 
Applicants must apply for the scholarship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • Be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country, or you must be a British Protected Person.
  • Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
  • Be available to start your academic studies in the UK by September 2024.
  • Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) honours standard or a second class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a Master's degree) by September.
  • Demonstrate inability to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
  • Provide all supporting documentation in the required format.
How to Apply 
Applicants must apply for the scholarship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • The CSC does not accept direct applications for these scholarships. 
  • Applications must be made through national nominating agencies or selected non-governmental organisations. 
  • Each nominating body has its selection process, eligibility criteria, and application closing date. 
  • Applications must be submitted via the CSC's Electronic Application System (EAS) by the middle of October at the latest.

2. GREAT Scholarships in the UK for International Students

GREAT Scholarships provide students from 14 countries with £10,000 to help cover their tuition fees for various one-year taught postgraduate courses. Additionally, Global Wales Scholarships are available for students from the EU, USA, Canada, India, and Vietnam.
Target Universities
The recipients of the scholarship have to study at:
  • One of the 71 universities across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
Target Degrees
You can apply for the scholarship if you want to pursue:
  • One-year postgraduate taught Master's programmes at participating universities. 
Check the university page to see which specific courses qualify for the GREAT scholarships.
Target Group of People 
Students from the following countries: 
  • Bangladesh, 
  • China, 
  • Egypt, 
  • Ghana, 
  • Kenya, 
  • India, 
  • Indonesia, 
  • Malaysia, 
  • Mexico, 
  • Nigeria, 
  • Pakistan, 
  • Thailand, 
  • Turkey, 
  • Vietnam.
Number of Scholarships
  • Approximately 210 scholarships are usually awarded.
Value of Scholarships
  • Each scholarship covers £10,000 towards tuition fees for one year.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must apply for the scholarship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • Must be from one of the participating countries listed above.
  • Must hold an undergraduate degree and show motivation and interest in the chosen subject area.
  • Must meet the English language requirements of the UK higher education institution (HEI).
  • Each country has its own eligibility criteria, found on the official website's country pages.
How to Apply 
  • Visit the participating university's page to learn more, and follow the link to the university's website. 
  • Apply for individual scholarships following each university's scholarship web page instructions. 
  • The application deadline for a GREAT Scholarship varies by institution but typically falls between April and June.

3. Marshall Scholarship for US Citizens in the UK

The Marshall Scholarships offer opportunities for young Americans with a high ability to pursue a graduate degree in the United Kingdom. Each year, up to 50 young Americans are chosen to study at a UK university in any field they choose. The Marshall Scholarship Programme aims to enable intellectually distinguished young Americans, who are seen as future leaders, to study in the UK.
Target Universities
The recipients of the scholarship have to study at:
  • Any UK university
Target Degrees 
You can apply for the scholarship if you want to pursue:
  • Master's degree in any subject (with some exceptions)
Target Group of People
  • US citizens
Number of Scholarships 
  • Up to 50 scholarships are awarded annually.
Value of Scholarships
The Marshall Scholarship covers the following areas of a student’s finances:
  • Covers university fees, cost of living expenses, annual book grants, thesis grants, research and daily travel grants
  • Includes fares to and from the United States
  • Contributes to the support of a dependent spouse
  • Two-Year Marshall Scholarship: Tenure for two academic years (22 months), extendable by the Commission for up to a third academic year
  • One-Year Marshall Scholarship: Tenure for one academic year (12 months) cannot be extended
Eligibility Criteria 
Applicants must apply for the scholarship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • Open only to United States citizens
  • Must hold a first degree from an accredited four-year college or university in the United States with a minimum GPA of 3.7
  • For awards tenable from October 2024, candidates must have graduated from their undergraduate college or university after April 2021
  • Persons already studying for or holding a British degree or degree-equivalent qualification are not eligible.
How to Apply
  • Applications are made in one of eight regions in the United States
  • Candidates may apply in only one region based on their permanent home address, ordinary place of residence/employment, or place of study
  • Application deadlines vary by regional centre, generally between late September and early October of the year preceding tenure
  • Deadlines for the Marshall Competition:
    • 26 September for applicants and recommenders
    • 28 September for endorsement and submission by US Institution

4. Fully-funded Rotary Peace Fellowships

Rotary International offers yearly fully funded Rotary Peace Fellowships to up to 130 peace and development leaders. These leaders can be from anywhere in the world and are awarded fully funded academic fellowships to:
  • Study for a Professional Development Certificate Programme
  • Study in a master's degree programme. 
However, the programme that is pursued must include peace, conflict resolution, and prevention. The fellowship recipients must be enrolled at one of the peace centres worldwide.  Mentioned below are the countries they can study in:
  • USA
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • England
  • Sweden
  • Uganda
Target Universities 
The recipients of the fellowship have to study at one of the following universities:
  • USA: Duke University and University of North Carolina
  • Japan: International Christian University
  • England: University of Bradford
  • Australia: University of Queensland
  • Sweden: Uppsala University
  • Uganda: Makerere University
Target Degrees 
You can apply for the fellowship if you want to pursue a master's or professional development certificate in:
  • Development Policy Programme (MIDP) or related degrees
  • Master’s Degree in Peace Studies
  • Master’s Degree in Advanced Practice in Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution
  • Master of Peace and Conflict Studies (MPACS)
  • Master’s Degree in Peace and Conflict Studies
  • Post-graduate diploma in Peace and Development Studies
Target Group of People
  • Leaders in the field of Global peace and development can apply for this fellowship. 
  • They must hold a bachelor’s degree to meet the eligibility requirements.
Number of Fellowships 
  • Approximately 50 fellowships are offered to leaders for master’s degrees annually.
  • Approximately 80 fellowships are awarded to students pursuing certificate studies annually.
Value of Fellowships
Rotary International covers the following areas of a student’s finances:
  • Tuition fees
  • Living Expenses
  • Room and board
  • Round-trip transportation and airfare
  • Internships
  • Field-study expenses
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must apply for the fellowship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • Hold a bachelor’s degree in related fields
  • Have professional work experience of three years to get a scholarship for the master’s programme.
  • Have five years of professional experience to get a scholarship for the certificate programme.
  • Write briefly about their plans for the promotion of peace and how their plans align with those of the Rotary’s mission.
  • Have good English language skills
  • Have leadership qualities
  • Are strongly committed to understanding various cultures and promoting peace. 
  • Have evidence of supporting cross-cultural understanding and peace professionally, academically and personally.
How to Apply 
  • The deadline may vary every year. However, the commonly followed deadline is mid-May each year.

5. Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarships for International Students

The Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship programme offers up to £10,000 in financial support to international students from countries like Vietnam, India, the USA, and the EU who want to pursue a full-time master's programme in Wales. The Global Wales Programme, a collaboration between the Welsh Government, Universities Wales, The British Council, and HEFCW, funds these scholarships.
Target Universities
The recipients of the scholarship have to study at one of the following universities:
  • Aberystwyth University
  • Bangor University
  • Cardiff University
  • Cardiff Metropolitan University
  • Swansea University
  • University of South Wales
  • University of Wales Trinity St David
  • Wrexham Glyndwr University
Target Degrees
You can apply for the fellowship if you want to pursue:
  • Full-time postgraduate programmes are offered at the above Welsh universities.
Target Group of People 
For Europe: 
  • Austria, 
  • Belgium, 
  • Bulgaria, 
  • Croatia, 
  • Cyprus, 
  • Czech Republic, 
  • Denmark, 
  • Estonia, 
  • Finland, 
  • France, 
  • Germany, 
  • Greece, 
  • Hungary, 
  • Ireland, 
  • Italy, 
  • Latvia, 
  • Lithuania, 
  • Luxembourg, 
  • Malta, 
  • Netherlands, 
  • Poland, 
  • Portugal, 
  • Romania, 
  • Slovakia, 
  • Slovenia, 
  • Sweden, 
  • Spain.
For the Rest of the World: 
  • USA, 
  • Canada, 
  • India, 
  • Vietnam.
Number of Scholarships 
  • It is not specified.
Value of Scholarships 
  • Each scholarship offers up to £10,000 towards tuition fees for one year of a postgraduate master's programme. 
  • The student is responsible for any extra expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must apply for the scholarship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • Must have applied for an eligible postgraduate programme at one of the Welsh Universities listed above.
  • The intended start date for the postgraduate programme should be September.
  • Must be classified as an overseas student for fee-paying purposes.
  • Must be a citizen of one of the eligible countries mentioned above.
How to Apply
You must have already applied to study at your chosen university to be considered for the scholarships.  Include your university application number in your scholarship application.  The scholarship application form must be submitted online for September entry by the end of April.

6. British Chevening Scholarships in the UK for International Students

The UK government and partner organisations fund Chevening Scholarships. They offer outstanding scholars worldwide the chance to pursue a master's degree in any subject at any UK university.
Target Universities 
The recipients of the scholarship have to study at:
  • Any university in the UK.
Target Degrees
You can apply for the scholarship if you want to pursue:
  • One year of full-time taught master's degree programme in any subject. 
Students can use the course finder on the Chevening website to find eligible master's degrees at UK universities.
Target Group of People 
  • The scholarships are available to citizens of countries eligible for Chevening. 
A complete list of eligible countries is available on the official website.
Number of Scholarships 
  • Around 1,500 scholarships are offered globally.
Value of Scholarships 
Chevening Scholarships usually cover: 
  • University tuition fees, 
  • A monthly living allowance, 
  • Travel costs to and from the UK, 
  • An arrival allowance, 
  • A homeward departure allowance, 
  • The cost of one visa application, 
  • A travel grant to attend Chevening events in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria 
Applicants must apply for the scholarship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • Must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory.
  • Commit to returning to your country of citizenship for at least two years after completing the scholarship.
  • Have completed all components of an undergraduate degree enabling entry into a postgraduate programme at a UK university by the time of application.
  • Typically hold an upper second-class 2:1 honours degree in the UK (this may vary depending on the course and university).
  • Have at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience.
  • Apply to three different eligible UK university courses and receive an unconditional offer from one of them by 13 July 2023.
How to Apply
  • Applications can only be submitted using the Chevening online application system, available through the 'apply' button on your country's page. 
  • The deadline for applications falls at the start of November.

7. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships

The Scottish Government and Scottish universities provide Scotland's Saltire Scholarships. These scholarships are for citizens of specific countries who want to pursue full-time master's degrees in Scottish universities. The courses cover various fields, such as science, technology, creative industries, healthcare and medical sciences, and renewable and clean energy.
Target Universities
The recipients of the scholarship have to study at:
  • Scotland's higher education institutions
Target Degrees 
You can apply for the scholarship if you want to pursue:
  • Master's degree in specified subjects offered at Scottish Universities, including distance learning courses.
Target Group of People
Nationals of: 
  • Canada, 
  • China (including Hong Kong), 
  • India, 
  • Japan, 
  • Pakistan, 
  • USA.
Number of Scholarships 
  • Up to 50 scholarships are available.
Value of Scholarships
  • Each scholarship is valued at £ 8,000 to cover tuition fees for one year of full-time study on a postgraduate Master's programme at a Scottish higher education institution. 
Additional costs and expenses are not covered.
Eligibility Criteria 
Applicants must apply for the scholarship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • Must have a conditional or unconditional offer of a place at a Scottish university for an eligible course.
  • Citizens of Canada, India, Japan, USA, Pakistan, or China (including Hong Kong).
  • Ability to demonstrate financial capability to cover living costs in Scotland and the remaining tuition fees.
  • Must not have previously studied in Scotland or received a Saltire Scholarship.
  • Meet the language requirements of the course.
  • Complete and submit the application form by the deadline of 31 May 2022.
  • Applicants must be interested in studying in Scotland or at a specific Scottish university, aspire to work and study globally and demonstrate leadership potential in their chosen field. They must also possess the necessary interpersonal and communication skills to participate in the scholarship programme's activities.
How to apply 
  • To apply for a Saltire Scholarship, applicants must have a conditional or unconditional offer of a place at a Scottish university. 
  • The scholarship application form, which includes a unique reference number received in the offer letter from the Scottish university, must be submitted online by the deadline of the end of May.

8. Erasmus Mundus Scholarships for a Joint Master Degree in Aquaculture, Environment, and Society

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Aquaculture, Environment and Society (EMJMD ACES/ACES+) provides scholarships to highly ranked students aiming to start the 2-year degree course in AY 2021-2023, commencing September 2023. This course, designed for European and international students with a bachelor's degree in relevant fields, offers joint or multiple degrees upon completion.
Target Universities
Students study across various EU countries throughout the programme:
  • Semester 1: Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), UK
  • Semester 2: University of Crete, Greece
  • Semester 3: University of Nantes, France
  • Semester 4: Industry-based research project in partner universities
Target Degrees 
You can apply for the scholarship if you want to pursue:
  • Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Aqua Culture, Environment and Society (EMJMD ACES/ACES+)
Target Group of People 
  • EU and non-EU students from Partner and Programme countries can apply.
Number of Scholarships Given Under Erasmus Mundus Scholarships for a Joint Master Degree in Aquaculture, Environment, and Society
  • The exact number of scholarships available is not specified.
Value of Scholarships
  • Partner Country scholarships: Up to €8,000 annually, including travel, installation costs, and a monthly allowance.
  • Programme Country scholarships: Up to €4,000 annually, including travel, installation costs, and a monthly allowance.
  • A monthly allowance is not provided for periods spent in the student's country of residence.
Eligibility Criteria 
Applicants must apply for the scholarship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • For Partner Country scholarships:
      • Applicants must not be nationals of EU countries, Iceland, Norway, etc.
      • They must not be residents of these countries or have spent over 12 months there in the last five years.
      • Applicants should possess a bachelor's degree in relevant fields.
      • English competence equivalent to 6.5 Academic IELTS is required.
  • For Programme Country scholarships:
    • All other students not eligible for Partner Country scholarships are eligible to apply.
    • Applicants must have:
    • A bachelor's degree in relevant fields.
    • English competence is equivalent to 6.5 Academic IELTS.
    • Practical working experience in the aquaculture industry is welcomed.
How to apply 
  • Applicants must complete the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) application forms and ACES. 
  • They should be emailed along with supporting documents as a PDF file to Helen Bury at ACES[at]sams.ac.uk by the middle of February. 

9. Colt Foundation PhD Fellowships in Occupational/Environmental Health

The Colt Foundation offers up to 4 Fellowships annually for students worldwide pursuing a PhD in occupational or environmental health at a UK university. Fellowships generally last three years, but shorter periods may be considered for those already pursuing a PhD without full funding.
Target Universities 
The recipients of the fellowship have to study at:
  • UK universities
Target Degrees 
You can apply for the fellowship if you want to pursue:
  • PhD in occupational or environmental health
Target Group of People 
  • Open to all students globally.
Number of Fellowships
  • 4
Value of Fellowships 
  • Stipend: £15,009 per year (£17,009 for students in London), adjusted annually for UK inflation
  • Research expenses: Up to £5,000 per year, subject to satisfactory justification
  • Fees: Full fees are for UK/EU students; for others, the difference is to be covered by other sources.
Eligibility Criteria 
Applicants must apply for the fellowship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • Their academic track record, proposed research project quality, and PhD training environment will be considered.
  • Preference for applicants showing potential as future occupational and environmental health research leaders.
How to Apply 
  • Prospective students, not supervisors, should submit applications, though supervisor input is expected.
  • Applications should include:
    • A research outline, 
    • Scientific questions, 
    • Data collection and analysis plans, 
    • CV, 
    • Detailed supervisor letter of support, 
    • Contact details of 2 referees.
  • The application deadline falls around the start of September.

10. Marshal Papworth Scholarships in Agriculture for Developing Countries

Marshal Papworth offers scholarships to students from developing countries for one-year Master's degree programmes in agriculture or horticulture. They also provide a 10-week short course at certain UK universities.
Target Universities 
The recipients of the scholarship have to study at one of the following universities:
  • Aberystwyth University
  • Cranfield University
  • Bangor University
  • Royal Agricultural College
  • Harper Adams University
  • The University of Reading
  • Writtle University College
Target Degrees
You can apply for the scholarship if you want to pursue a master's degree in:
  • MSc Development and Project Planning
  • MSc International Development
  • MSc Project Planning and Management
  • MSc Land Reclamation and Restoration
  • MSc Integrated Landscape Ecology
  • MSc Environmental Water Management
  • MSc Water and Sanitation for Development
  • MSc Conservation Management
  • MSc Crop Production (Horticulture)
  • MSc Crop Production (Agriculture)
  • MSc Post Harvest Technology
  • MSc Livestock Production Science
  • MSc Environment and Development
  • MA Development Economics
  • MA Agriculture and Rural Development
  • MSc Water Security and International Development
  • MSc Environment and Development
  • MSc Applied Development Studies
  • MSc Communication and Development
  • MSc Food Security and Development
  • MSc Agroforestry
  • MSc Environmental Forestry
  • MSc Conservation & Land Management
  • MA Social Development and Sustainable Livelihoods
  • MSc Integrated Pest Management
  • MSc Agricultural Sciences and Production Systems
  • MSc Entomology
  • The Marshal Papworth 10-week short course at Harper Adams University will lead to a BTEC Certificate in Agriculture.
Target Group of People 
  • Students from developing countries
Number of Scholarships 
  • 15 Masters scholarships and 22 short course scholarships over two years
Value of Scholarships 
  • Masters Scholarships: Cover tuition fees and cover living expenses, typically worth £19,000 per student.
  • Short Course Scholarships: Cover tuition, IT training, flights, accommodation, meals, and cultural visits.
Eligibility Criteria 
Applicants must apply for the scholarship only if they meet the following criteria:
  • Applicants must be nationals of and residents of developing countries (countries with a GNI per capita below US$11500).
  • Candidates must demonstrate strong academic performance.
  • Applicants should have professional experience in community or agricultural development, including voluntary work.
  • Candidates must show potential to contribute positively to development in their home country after completing their studies.
  • Applicants need to have a good command of the English language.
How to Apply 
  • Masters Scholarships: 
      • Applicants apply directly to the participating universities. 
      • Once accepted, the university forwards their application to Marshal Papworth for consideration.
  • Short Course: 
    • Applications must be made through accredited organisations listed on the website before the deadline.
  • Both types of applications have specific deadlines, usually in April or before the Easter break.

11. Erasmus+ Scholarships for Master’s in Education Policies for Global Development

The Master in Education Policies for Global Development (GLOBED) is a specialised programme offered by a consortium of four European universities. It is designed for students from around the world who are interested in studying global education policies.  From 2018 to 2024, the programme received funding through the Erasmus+ initiative, a European Commission programme. Each year, 25 students are accepted into the GLOBED programme through Erasmus+ scholarships or as self-funded students.
Target Universities
  • Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Spain)
  • University of Glasgow (United Kingdom)
  • University of Bremen (Germany)
  • University of Cyprus
Target Degrees 
  • Master's level education in Policies for Global Development.
Target Group of People 
  • Students from any part of the world are eligible to apply for these scholarships.
Number of Scholarships 
  • A total of 15 scholarships are awarded each year.
Value of Scholarships 
There are two types of scholarships: one for students living far away (Partner Country) and one for students living closer (Programme Country) to Barcelona, where the course is based.
  • Partner Country scholarships:
      • €6,000 a year for travel costs (if you live far away)
      • €1,000 a month for living expenses during the two years of study
      • All course fees are covered
      • An extra €1,000 for settling in (installation costs)
  • Programme Country scholarships:
    • €2,000 a year for travel costs (if you live closer)
    • €1,000 a month for living expenses during the two years of study
    • All course fees are covered.
    • Medical insurance for two years
Eligibility Criteria 
  • For Partner Country Scholarships:
    • Not from the European Union or certain other countries
    • Not living in these countries for more than 12 months in the last five years
    • Not carrying out main activities (like studying or working) in these countries for more than 12 months in the previous five years
  • For Programme Country Scholarships:
    • From any country except the ones listed for Partner Country scholarships
    • Not spent more than 12 months in the European Union in the last five years
  • Special Scholarships for ENI South Countries:
    • Three scholarships are given to students from certain countries in North Africa and the Middle East
    • At least 75% of the scholarships must go to students from Partner Countries
How to Apply 
  • To apply for the scholarships for the GLOBED programme, which starts in September. 
  • You need to submit your application online by the 10th of February.

12. Erasmus Mundus Scholarships for International Students

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarships are special awards given out by the European Union. They are for students from countries inside and outside the EU who are chosen to study in certain joint programmes called Erasmus Mundus Joint Programmes. These programmes are either at the Master's or Doctorate level.
Target Universities
  • European universities and institutions that are part of the approved Erasmus Mundus Action Joint Programmes.
Target Degrees 
  • Courses in agriculture, engineering, health, humanities, science, and more. 
  • About 116 Masters courses and 29 Doctorate courses are supported by these scholarships.
Target Group of People 
There are two types of scholarships: Category A and Category B.
  • Category A is for people from countries outside the EU and a few others, such as Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.
  • Category B is for people from EU countries or countries we mentioned earlier.
Number of Scholarships 
  • The scholarship number is not specified.
Value of Scholarships 
  • If you get one of these scholarships, it helps cover your expenses while you study. 
  • It can include money for living, study costs, travel, and insurance. 
  • The amount you get might change depending on your level of study, the length of your course, and your location.
Eligibility Criteria 
  • Each Erasmus Mundus Joint Programme has its own rules for who can join and how to pick students. 
  • If interested, contact the programme you want to join to learn more.
How to Apply 
  • If you are thinking about applying, check the websites of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Programmes you are interested in. 
  • They have all the information about the course, how much money you could earn, and how to apply. 
  • Applications usually open towards the end of the year, around December or January, for courses starting the next academic year.

13. Marie Curie International Incoming Fellowships for Developing Countries

The Marie Curie International Incoming Fellowships (IIF) encourage top researchers from developing countries to work on projects in Europe. The opportunities help boost research cooperation between Europe and other parts of the world.
Target Universities
  • Universities, research centres, or companies in the EU.
Target Degrees 
  • All scientific and technological research areas of interest to the EU are eligible, except those covered by the EURATOM Treaty.
Target Group of People
  • Researchers from developing countries.
Number of Fellowships
  • The number of awards is not specified.
Value of Fellowships
  • Funding is provided for a research project that transfers knowledge to the host organisation and strengthens collaborations between Europe and the rest of the world.
  • Financial support is provided for 12-24 months (full-time equivalent).
  • The scholarship may also cover a return phase of up to one year in the researcher's country of origin.
Eligibility Criteria 
  • Researchers from third countries, which are countries that are neither EU Member States nor Associated Countries, are eligible.
  • Must have a doctoral degree or at least four years of full-time equivalent research experience after obtaining a degree permitting embarking on a doctorate.
  • Application must be made in liaison with the host organisation in Europe.
How to Apply 
  • The complete information package is available from the call page.
  • Proposals are submitted electronically via the Commission's Electronic Proposal Submission Service (EPSS).
  • The deadline for applications generally falls in the middle of  August.

14. Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme at UK Universities

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships help students from the poorest countries in the Commonwealth to study for a full-time Master's degree in the UK. UK universities support these scholarships.
Target Universities
  • UK universities
Target Degrees
Master's degree under one of the six themes:
  • Access, inclusion, and opportunity
  • Promoting global prosperity
  • Science and technology for development
  • Strengthening global peace, security, and governance
  • Strengthening health systems and capacity
  • Strengthening resilience and response to crisis
Target Group of People 
  • Students from the poorest Commonwealth countries.
Number of Scholarships 
  • The number of scholarships is not specified.
Value of Scholarships 
The scholarship covers: 
  • Tuition and exam fees, 
  • Airfare from your home country to the UK, 
  • Monthly stipend (either £1,347 or £1,652, depending on where you study), 
  • Warm clothing allowance, 
  • Thesis grant, 
  • Study travel grant, 
  • Excess baggage allowance.
Scholarships usually last for one year.
Eligibility Criteria 
  • Must be a citizen of or have refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country or be a British Protected Person.
  • Permanently reside in a developing Commonwealth country.
  • Ready to start studies in the UK by September.
  • By September, have a first degree of at least upper second-class standard (2:1) or a lower second-class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification.
  • Must have studied or worked in a developed country for less than one year.
  • Cannot afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
  • Provide all required supporting documents.
How to Apply 
  • Apply for an eligible Master's course at a participating UK university.
  • Get admission to your course and apply for the Shared Scholarship.
  • Each university has its admission deadline, so check with them.
  • Apply through the CSC's online application system by the middle of December.

How to Get a Scholarship to Study in the United Kingdom?

Studying in the United Kingdom can be very expensive for international students compared to domestic students. Students, hence, need help continuing their higher education abroad. The financial burden, alongside the academic pressure, can be challenging to handle for students.  Pursue your passion rather than stressing about the finances and negatively impacting your studies. How so? Get a scholarship that suits you and your financial status the best. Then, continue to perform well for the annual renewal of your scholarship.  However, the real issue of “how to get a scholarship” persists. If you are an international student and need support or feedback on your scholarship applications, you can contact counsellors at CounsellingX. Find the counsellors of your liking and connect with them for a free consultation. 
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