Top 10 Fully-Funded Scholarships in the UK

Imagine studying in the UK without worrying about tuition or living costs. Sounds like a dream, right? But with fully funded scholarships in UK you will never have to worry about high tuition fees and daily living costs. Over 600,000 international students come to UK every year to study, and some of them even receive fully-funded scholarships. 

For most of us, fully-funded scholarships are a practical way to study in the UK without worrying about financial expenses. It might seem like a distant dream right now, but in this blog, we will break down the top 10 fully funded scholarships in the UK for you and give you insider tips on how to apply and get the scholarship, too.

Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships In The UK: An Overview

Also read: UK Government Scholarships For International Students In 2026

What Does a Fully Funded Scholarship Mean in the UK?

• International fees are fully paid

The cost of studying in the UK starts even before landing. That’s why having fully funded scholarships in UK makes a big difference. It covers the international tuition fees, which helps you focus on your studies. 

• Monthly money based on UK living rules

Living in the UK is tougher than the cost of studying. But the fully funded scholarships in UK also cover the monthly expenses. Students receive a fixed monthly allowance based on the UKVI living costs guidelines. This helps students meet visa requirements without depending heavily on part-time work.

• Health and visa costs are covered

When we fall sick in our country, the first thing we do is consult a doctor, but students get scared when they come to the UK. Doctor consultation charges can empty out your pocket. But, the fully funded scholarships in UK sovers include the Immigration Health Surcharge and somties Visa application fees as well. 

• Money follows the academic calendar

Imagine managing funding and studies at the same time. Doesn’t it sound terrifying? To ease the stress for international students, funding is released in line with the UK academic year. This helps students focus on their studies without worrying about expenses. 

• Extra support for research students

Pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK is tough because of the high competition and sometimes limited funding. Imagine coming close to concluding the research but not being able to finish it because lack of funding. Fully-funded scholarships in UK offer additional funding for lab access, research materials, and UK-based field work and conferences.  

• Support for students with family

Living alone in a big foreign country feels intimidating, but some fully funded scholarships on UK offer an extra allowance for dependents. This makes student life easy in the UK. 

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Detailed Breakdown of the Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships In The UK

1. Chevening Scholarship

Picture yourself studying somewhere that has both ancient castles and modern science labs. Studying in the UK with a Chevening Scholarship gives you that opportunity. Chevening has a global lobal network of over 55,000 former students and dates back to 1983. Alumni from Chevening are working in government, media, public service and business sectors. You can be one of the 1,400 to 1,500 students who receive this fully funded scholarship in the UK. It covers everything, full tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, return flights to the UK, and visa-related costs. 

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

Applying for the Chevening Scholarship happens entirely through the official Chevening Online Application System, but you must complete two equally essential layers of requirements:

• The Chevening scholarship application
• The admission application to at least one eligible UK master’s programme
  

1. Register & Use the Online Application System

First, visit the official Chevening portal and click “Apply today” for your country. You’ll need to read and consent to the Chevening Terms & Conditions and Privacy Notice. Then register your email address and mobile number. You’ll receive an activation link to log in and proceed.

2. Pass the Eligibility Checker

Once logged in, answer the eligibility questions to confirm that you meet key criteria (citizenship, work experience, degree level, etc.). If you don’t pass initially, you’re allowed two additional attempts. Passing grants you access to complete the full application form.

3. Note Your Unique Access Code

After passing the eligibility check, the portal will display a unique access code. Keep this code safe: you’ll need it every time you log in to your application.

4. Fill Out the Application Form

The online form contains multiple sections:

• Personal details (full name, passport info, interview location)
• Immigration and citizenship data
• Education history (up to 15 entries)
• Work history (up to 15 entries; your total hours are auto-calculated)
• Programme of study: Choose three eligible UK master’s courses (you don’t need to have applied already)
• Referees: Enter two referees’ names and contact details
• Four essay questions: on leadership, networking, future goals, and UK study

Be mindful of the 15-minute inactivity logout and save frequently.

5. Submit Your Application

Once every section is complete, you must formally agree to the conditions and click “Submit application” and “Confirm submission”. After submission, you cannot alter your application content. You’ll receive an email confirmation that your application has been added to the system.

2. Gates Cambridge Scholarship

Here’s your opportunity to study in the UK, where football, cricket, and rugby began. You can visit famous places like Silverstone and Wembley, and you won’t have to worry about tuition fees, living expenses, return airfare, or visa costs. Opt for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship that has been around since 2000. This scholarship covers a wide range of subjects and is mainly offered for postgraduate courses, including master’s and PhD programmes. The award is very competitive but provides strong academic support and access to one of the UK’s best universities. Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this fully funded scholarship is for international students who want to study at the University of Cambridge.

How to Apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship

• Submit a Combined Form

You need to complete one combined application form via Cambridge’s graduates application portal. This includes sections for your course admission, your choice of College, and the Gates Cambridge funding. The Gates Cambridge Trust will review your entire application together, so every section needs attention.

• Admission Section Details

In this part, you provide your personal information, academic background, and details about the course you want to study. You also explain why you are suitable for the course and the College you choose. Make sure you show your interest in Cambridge and why this course fits your goals.

• Funding Section Requirements

The scholarship section asks four main questions. Each answer should be between 200 and 300 words. These questions focus on:

• Your academic excellence
• How does your course fit your plans
• Your commitment to helping others
• Your leadership qualities

If you are applying for a PhD, you also need to include a research proposal. This should be up to 4,000 characters and clearly explain your research topic, methods, and why it matters.

• Gates Cambridge Reference

You must arrange one reference specifically for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. Choose someone who knows you well and can speak about how you meet the selection criteria. Your referee will compare you to other applicants and can write up to 4,000 characters. Academic referees are fine if they are briefed properly on the Gates criteria.

Applying for Gates Cambridge is competitive, but following these steps carefully will make your application stronger. For anyone looking to study in the UK without worrying about tuition or living costs, this is one of the top fully funded scholarships in UK to aim for.

Learn how the Gates Cambridge Scholarship works from a 2013 scholar sharing real experiences in a Reddit thread.

Ask me Anything from a Former Gates Scholar – r/TheGatesScholarship from r/TheGatesScholarship

3. Rhodes Scholarship

If you, too, have dreamt of studying at the oldest university in the English-speaking world, Oxford, the Rhodes Scholarship is your chance to fulfil this dream. Rhodes is one of the oldest fully funded scholarships in the UK, since 1902 by Cecil Rhodes. This is a highly selective program that focuses on academic excellence, leadership, and moral character. Rhodes hoped to support young people who would become leaders and make a global impact.

How to Apply for Rhodes Scholarship:

• Check Eligibility First

Before starting your application, make sure you meet all the rules. Check your nationality, age (usually under 27), and academic qualifications. You can check your eligibility on the Rhodes Scholarship website. Reading the Conditions of Tenure and Oxford graduate admissions pages carefully will help you avoid mistakes later.

• Prepare Key Documents

Gather all your documents before applying. You will need a valid passport, official transcripts, and a CV listing your achievements. You also need a personal statement of around 1,000 words describing your background and goals, and a 350-word academic statement explaining why you chose your Oxford course. In addition, you need 4 to 5 reference letters from teachers, mentors, or leaders who can speak about your skills and potential.

• Submit Online Application

Upload all your materials through the Rhodes portal by the national deadline. Shortlisted candidates will first have preliminary interviews, usually online, and then final interviews in person between September and November.

• Next Steps After Selection

If you are chosen as a Rhodes Scholar, you then apply to your Oxford course with support from Rhodes House. Being a Rhodes Scholar gives you full access to one of the world’s top universities, along with the benefits of one of the most respected fully funded scholarships in UK.

4. Felix Scholarship

If you always done really well academically but haven’t always had the easiest access to opportunities, the Felix Scholarships have got your back. Available for underprivileged backgrounds looking for fully funded scholarships for indian students in UK. An Indian national needs at least a first-class Bachelor’s degree from a recognised Indian university or an equivalent qualification. If you are a non-Indian and non-EEA students must also have a first-class degree from a recognised university and a recommendation from their chosen institution. These scholarships can be used at the University of Oxford, the University of Reading, and the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). 

How to Apply for the Felix Scholarship

The Felix Scholarship is one of the top fully funded scholarships for Indian students in UK. It helps students to study at UK universities like Oxford, Reading, SOAS, and Imperial College London. You must first get an admission offer from a university before applying for the scholarship.

• Apply for Admission

First, send your application to one of the four universities for a postgraduate course. Deadlines are usually in early January. University applications take about 4 to 6 weeks to process, so start early. Make sure your application is complete and correct.

• Prepare Documents

After you get an admission offer, collect the documents for the scholarship. You need proof that you need money to study, a personal statement about yourself, letters of recommendation, your transcripts, and proof of nationality. Indian students especially need 

• Fill Scholarship Form

Complete the Felix Scholarship form online through your university portal, like Reading or SOAS. Submit it before the deadline, for example, 31 January at 12 noon UK time. Late applications are not accepted, so check everything carefully.

• Shortlisting and Interviews

Universities look at all applications and make a shortlist in March or April. Shortlisted students are invited to interviews. These can be online or in India. The results usually come out by May or June.

Getting the Felix Scholarship means you can study in the UK without worrying about tuition or living costs. It is one of the best fully funded scholarships in UK for students who are bright and need financial support.

Also Read: Cost Of Living In Oxford: Your Ultimate Guide

5. Commonwealth Scholarships

If you’re from a Commonwealth country, have big goals, and funding is the only thing holding you back from studying in the UK, these fully funded scholarships in UK could be exactly what you need to make it happen. Each year, about 700 students from Commonwealth countries are chosen for their strong potential to make a global impact. Since 1959, it’s known for welcoming talented students to UK universities. These Commonwealth Scholars have returned home after their studies to lead projects and drive positive change. 

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the Commonwealth Scholarships?

The application process happens through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) portal, but your application is only considered valid when submitted through a nominating agency, such as your home government, a university, or an approved NGO. 

1. Apply Through the CSC Online System

Start by selecting your scholarship category (Master’s, PhD, or Split-Site PhD) on the CSC portal. You must upload academic transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, and proof of citizenship or refugee status. Ensure all documents comply with the specific eligibility requirements for your country.

2. Prepare a Development-Focused Statement

One of the most crucial components is the Development Impact Statement. Here, you must explain:

• How does your work align with sustainable development
• How your skills will benefit your home country
• How studying in the UK will help create a long-term impact

This statement is central to the evaluation process.

3. Secure Strong Academic References

You must provide two academic references, submitted directly through the CSC system. These references should highlight your research potential, academic capability, and suitability for advanced study.

4. Submit Through Your Nominating Agency

Most applicants apply through their country’s Ministry of Education or a Commonwealth-nominating agency. Each agency sets its own internal deadlines, often earlier than CSC deadlines, so submit early.

5. Final Submission Before the Deadline

All materials, including references and agency nominations, must be completed before the CSC deadline for your scholarship category. Only complete applications move to the final selection round.

6. Clarendon Fund

In 2026, Clarendon is welcoming its 25th group of exceptional scholars. This is your chance to be one of them. Oxford is more than its history. It has been home to actors, activists, world leaders, and others who have influenced culture, policy, and global discussions. If studying at the University of Oxford has been your lifelong dream, this UK scholarship, which started in 2001, is your go-to move. Study from a wide range of subjects and be a part of research and academic projects during your time at Oxford. 

How to Apply for the Clarendon Fund

The Clarendon Fund is one of the most well-known fully funded scholarships in UK. It is for students who want to do a master’s or DPhil at the University of Oxford. The good thing is that there is no separate scholarship form. Your application for the course is automatically considered for the Clarendon Fund.

• Meet Course Deadlines

First, you need to apply for a full-time or part-time Oxford master’s or DPhil course. Deadlines are usually in December or January. For example, some courses close by 2 December 2025 or 8 January 2026. Check your specific course page to know the exact date. Sending your application on time is very important because late applications are not accepted.

• Submit Standard Documents

Your course application should include academic transcripts, a personal statement or statement of purpose, and references from teachers or academics who know your work well. If your course requires a research proposal, include that too. Make sure to show your academic strengths clearly in all your documents.

• Automatic Consideration and Timeline

Departments at Oxford pick the top students based on merit. All eligible applicants are automatically considered for the Clarendon Fund. You can expect results between late April and mid-June 2026. If you do not hear anything by then, it usually means your application was not successful.

Being selected for the Clarendon Fund allows you to study at Oxford without worrying about tuition or living costs. It is one of the best fully funded scholarships in UK for students who have strong academic records and want to study at a top university.

7. Imperial College PhD Scholarship

Imperial believes in their mission ‘To be useful’, and lead the world with knowledge in science, technology, engineering, medicine and business. Their PhD scholarship is a great deal if you, as an international student, want to learn from actual researchers. This is one of those fully funded scholarships in UK, which encourages you to work on real-world projects that can make a difference.

How to Apply for Imperial College PhD Scholarship

There is no separate scholarship form, as it is part of the PhD application process. To apply successfully, it is important to plan ahead and follow each step carefully.

• Secure Supervisor Agreement

Before applying, contact a potential supervisor in your department. They must agree to nominate you, as each supervisor can only nominate one student per round. Reaching out early is important so you have enough time to prepare your application.

• Submit PhD Admission Application

Apply through the Imperial College online admissions system before the key deadlines. For example, applications by 3 November 2025 are usually decided by 31 January 2026, 12 January 2026 by 31 March, and 2 March 2026 by 31 May. Make sure to select the scholarship in the funding section of your application.

• Prepare Key Documents

You need to upload a two-page personal statement. Page one should explain your motivations and why the course fits your goals. Page two is your research proposal. You also need transcripts, proof of first-class or distinction honours, and two academic reference letters. Make sure all documents clearly show your academic strengths and research potential.

• Shortlisting and Results

Departments shortlist students based on merit. If you are not selected for the scholarship, your application may still be considered for standard funding options.

Winning the Imperial College PhD Scholarship allows you to focus fully on your research without worrying about tuition or living costs. It is one of the most respected fully funded scholarships in UK for students who want to study at a top research university.

8. Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarship

The UK offers more than just top universities and world-class research. It’s also about enjoying fish and chips after a long day. Having a proper Sunday roast, sharing cream teas, and relaxing in cosy historic pubs that seem like they belong in a movie. While you enjoy these experiences, you’ll also study at universities that are serious about research. Scholarships like this fully funded PhD at the University of Warwick give international students the chance to work on meaningful projects with experts who are shaping the future of science, technology, and social research.

How to Apply for Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarship

To apply, you first need to have an offer from Warwick. Without an offer, you cannot submit the scholarship application.

• Submit Your PhD Course Application

Start by applying online for a full-time PhD starting in October 2026. The deadline is usually early December. Your application should include a research proposal, academic transcripts, reference letters, and a statement of purpose. Make sure to indicate that you are an overseas student, as fee status is important for this scholarship.

• Complete the Scholarship Form

After submitting your course application, you can fill in the Chancellor’s International Scholarship form through the Warwick portal. The form has three main questions that ask about your academic achievements, how your research fits your course, and your future plans. Read the guidance notes carefully before answering.

• Department Nomination and Results

Departments at Warwick nominate the strongest candidates and provide a ranking statement. A faculty panel then reviews all nominations and decides who gets the scholarship. You can usually expect email updates by March 2026.

Receiving the Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarship means you can study at Warwick without worrying about tuition or living costs. It is a great opportunity for talented PhD students and is one of the best fully funded scholarships in UK for international researchers.

9. British Council Women in STEM Scholarship

In the United Kingdom, the British Council Women in STEM Scholarships were set up to help close the gender gap. Be it in science, technology, engineering, and maths, just by supporting women to study at top UK universities. These scholarships are open to women from South Asia, East Asia, Africa, and America, and the best part they fully fund Master’s degrees. Each year, about 80 to 100 scholarships are given out. The award covers tuition, living expenses, travel, visa costs, and the health surcharge. You know what makes this one of the leading scholarships for international students in the UK is it’s easy access to research facilities, mentorship, and global networking, which is literally building STEM careers and not just handing you out degrees. 

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the British Council Women in STEM Scholarships?

Applications for the British Council Women in STEM Scholarships are submitted through the host university’s application portal, but you must fulfil two key components simultaneously:

• The university admission application
• The British Council Women in STEM funding application

1. Complete the University Admission Application

Begin by choosing an eligible STEM programme at a partnered UK university. Fill out the online admissions form and upload essential documents, including academic transcripts, English language proficiency certificates, a CV, a statement of purpose, and any course-specific requirements. 

2. Prepare and Upload a Motivation Statement

As part of the scholarship application, you must submit a motivation statement (usually 500–1,000 words) describing:

• Your academic and professional background in STEM
• How the scholarship will help advance your career
• Your commitment to addressing global challenges using STEM

Some universities may provide a template or specific prompts for this statement—ensure you follow them precisely.

3. Demonstrate Financial Need and Eligibility

You will be required to provide proof of financial need and confirm that you are unable to study in the UK without this scholarship. This may involve submitting:

• Income proof or financial declaration
• Statement confirming you have not previously studied in the UK
• Evidence of nationality and residency

4. Secure Academic and Professional References

In addition to your university application references, you must provide two strong references (academic or professional) supporting:

• Your capability in STEM fields
• Your leadership potential
• Your dedication to advancing opportunities for women in STEM

These references should be submitted directly through the university or scholarship portal, as required.

5. Complete the British Council Scholarship Application Form

Once you receive or expect an offer from the university, complete the British Council Women in STEM Scholarship application form. This includes sections on your academic journey, leadership roles, community engagement, and plans to empower women in STEM after graduation.

6. Submit All Materials Before the University-Specific Deadline

Each participating university sets its own deadline for both course and scholarship applications. Ensure you submit:

• Course application
• Motivation statement
• References
• Financial documentation
• Scholarship form

before the deadline specified by the university you are applying to.

10. Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship

Oxford flipped the MBA game with its 1+1 MBA. Instead of choosing between being a tech expert or a business grad, you come out as someone who can build, manage, and scale tech-driven ideas. That’s the real 1+1 advantage. Launched in 2014 with support from the Pershing Square Foundation, this is a fully funded scholarship in the UK at the University of Oxford. Beyond tuition, you get access to conferences, termly scholar meet-ups, community events, and mentorship, basically a strong network that sticks with you, not just a degree.

How to Apply for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship

It supports students on the 1+1 MBA programme at Oxford Saïd Business School. This programme combines a one-year master’s with an MBA. To apply, you use Oxford’s Graduate Admissions portal.

• Apply to Both Programmes

You need to submit two separate applications. First, apply for the 1+1 MBA by 7 January 2026. Second, apply for your chosen partnering master’s course by its own deadline, usually in December or January. Make sure you meet all the entry requirements for both courses before submitting.

• Include Scholarship Essay

In the MBA application, there is a Funding section where you upload a 500-word essay. The essay should answer: “How do you intend to change the world? What does this tell us about you as a person?” Your answers show your leadership skills and how you can make an impact.

• Interviews and Timeline

Shortlisted candidates are usually selected in early April 2026. Interviews are held in late April or early May. If you are successful, the scholarship covers full funding for both the master’s and the MBA year, including tuition and living costs.

The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship gives students the chance to study at one of the world’s top business schools without worrying about fees. It is one of the most respected fully funded scholarships in UK for future leaders who want to make a difference in the world.

Also Read: Scholarship Interview Questions: Cracking the Code for Study Abroad Success

Pro Tips for Applying for Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK

• Highlight UK-Relevant Experience

Put all your work related to the UK out there. Let’s say you worked on some projects or international work, got some volunteering done, flex about it all. These UK scholarship panels are waiting to see how your experience will connect you to their British and global communities. 

• Understand College and Department Preferences

Understand what will work for you. Do a quick check of the department’s website and see if it matches your interests. Tailor your application each time before applying so they know your goals align with theirs. You will understand better what universities are actually looking for while providing these fully funded scholarships in UK. 

• Show Awareness of UK Student Life and Costs

UK scholarships want to know you’re not going in blind. Show them you understand real student life in the UK, where you’ll live, how you’ll get around, and what things actually cost. It tells the panel you’re prepared, responsible, and ready for a fully funded opportunity.

• Write in Clear, Simple UK Academic Style

Be clear and direct. Always use simple sentences, be smart, and use the UK English spelling. You can simply avoid adding overly formal or poetic language. Panels prefer clear and professional statements that show your ideas and plans. 

• Tailor Your Impact Stories to the UK or Global Context

The best way to make an impact is by describing your work and achievements by showing them solid or visual proof of what you exactly did. The results or outcomes, and how they work well with your UK goals. 

Conclusion:

Securing one of these fully-funded scholarships in UK might not feel intimidating anymore. With proper planning and focus, the process can be much easier.  Each fully funded scholarship has its own rules, requirements, and selection process; knowing these will help you stay prepared. Highlighting relevant work experience, understanding college and department preferences, and showcasing your leadership skills in your scholarship essay can keep you ahead of everyone. 

These fully-funded scholarships in the UK give students a chance to study in their favourite universities without worrying about expenses. Once you land your scholarship, the next step will be to find the right student accommodation where you can study at nine in the morning and dine with your friends at night. UniAcco offers safe, affordable and fully finished student accommodation near your university, making your study experience smooth and stress free.

Frequently Asked Questions