Government-Funded Scholarships in the UK: A Complete List

Securing scholarships in UK for international students often begins with exploring government-funded opportunities. These prestigious awards not only fund your education but also open doors to global networks, leadership training, and cultural exchange. In this guide, we explore the major UK government-backed scholarships, offering practical insights into their benefits, criteria, and application processes.

1. Chevening Scholarships

A Premier Global Leadership Award

Chevening Scholarships, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), support outstanding foreign graduates with leadership potential. Covering full tuition, monthly stipends, travel to and from the UK, and even arrival allowances, Chevening is a transformative opportunity.

Each cohort spans about 50,000 applicants from 160 countries, with only 1,500 scholars selected annually. The emphasis on leadership, networking, and community impact reflects Chevening’s high prestige.

What Makes Chevening Stand Out

Winners join a global alumni network, attend UK government events, and receive ongoing professional development—making this more than a scholarship, but a lifelong investment.

2. Commonwealth Scholarships

Empowering Students from Developing Countries

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), funded by the FCDO, aims to support students from Commonwealth countries to pursue postgraduate study in the UK. Focused on capacity-building and social impact, the program covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and more.

The number of scholarships varies yearly, but fields related to science, healthcare, environmental studies, and education often receive priority.

Why It’s Worth Considering

If you plan to return home and apply your UK learning to challenges like climate change, healthcare, or education, Commonwealth Scholarships are an ideal fit—especially with sustainable-development goals in mind.

3. GREAT Scholarships

Bilateral Support for Top Talent

Launched by the British Council in partnership with UK universities, GREAT Scholarships support students from countries like India, China, Pakistan, and Nigeria. These awards, typically £10,000 toward tuition, fund one-year master’s programs in diverse fields.

While not always fully funded, they significantly reduce costs and are relatively easy to apply for—often through participating universities.

Combining Forces with University Offers

Students often combine GREAT Scholarships with university-specific funding. If awarded both, they can significantly offset costs, making this a strategic stepping stone toward financing your UK education.

4. Marshall Scholarships

Cultivating Transatlantic Thought Leaders

For U.S. citizens, the Marshall Scholarships back up to 50 American students annually to pursue graduate study in any UK university. These prestigious awards, which include tuition, housing, travel, and living expenses, are focused on excellence and leadership.

Marshall Scholars often pursue public service or academic careers with a cross‑Atlantic dimension.

An Eye on Impact

Marshall Scholarships support individuals with proven leadership and broad interests—often those ready to bring transatlantic cooperation into their professional life.

5. Fulbright‑UK Scholarships

Strengthening UK‑US Educational Ties

The Fulbright Commission offers awards for American students studying in the UK. While not solely government funded, many Fulbright‑UK scholarships receive support from the U.S. and UK governments. They cover tuition, travel, living costs, and research expenses.

Open to graduate-level applicants across disciplines, Fulbright emphasizes mutual understanding and cultural exchange.

Why Fulbright Matters

Fulbright scholars return home with deep international experience and enhanced networks in both countries. They are valued in academia, diplomacy, and global organisations.

6. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships

A Focus on Global Engagement

Funded by the Scottish Government, Saltire Scholarships support students from countries such as Canada, China, India, Japan, Pakistan, and the USA. These awards target master's studies in STEM, renewable energy, healthcare, and creative industries.

Worth £8,000, they may not be fully funded but are easily accessible and flexible.

Regional Impact and Opportunity

Saltire Scholarships aim to boost Scotland’s research capacity and global links. Scholars often get involved in collaborative projects across universities and industries.

7. UK Alumni Small Grants

Unlocking Seed Funding

Offered by the British Council, UK Alumni Small Grants support alumni networks overseas, encouraging graduates of UK universities to initiate small-scale community projects—workshops, mentoring, or social campaigns.

While not covering tuition, these grants provide funds, training, and networking opportunities.

Creating an Ongoing Circle of Support

Alumni Grands strengthen communities and maintain UK‑based social impact beyond the duration of formal studies—encouraging graduates to stay connected and engaged.

8. Defence and Security Programme Scholarships

Military-Focused Funding

Geared toward military or security professionals from allied nations, the Defence and Security Programme offers funded postgraduate study in the UK, under the auspices of the Ministry of Defence.

Courses typically focus on leadership, defense policy, and technology or humanitarian approaches.

Global Security and Responsibility

Entailing tuition and full living expenses, these scholarships support professionals pursuing regional stability, defense reform, or international cooperation.

9. UK government-funded Research Council Scholarships

Building the Future of Science

Research Councils like the EPSRC, ESRC, and MRC often co-fund PhD studentships with universities. These awards usually cover full tuition, stipends, and research costs.

They cater to disciplines including science, engineering, social science, humanities, and public health.

Competitive and Collaborative

Because of the research focus, applicants often need to identify supervisors in advance and demonstrate strong research aptitude, with plans aligned to council priorities.

10. Smaller Government-Backed Scholarships

Niche Funding Opportunities

Various ministries and bilateral partnerships offer government-funded scholarships for specific regions, such as developing countries or strategic partners. These awards usually originate from embassies or ministries in partnership with UK universities.

Worth Investigating

Though less widely publicised, these scholarships often have fewer applicants and targeted support—making them ripe opportunities for students aligned with specific international development goals.

Tips for Scholarship Success

Start Early: Research timelines well in advance and monitor deadlines.
Align Your Profile: Show how your goals serve broader development and leadership objectives.
Prepare Strong Applications: Personal statements should highlight your journey, impact, and global outlook.
Engage With Alumni: Connect with previous recipients to gain insights and tips.

Final Thoughts

Exploring government-funded scholarships in UK for international students offers access to fully funded education, cultural exchange, and lifelong networks. These awards—from Chevening to Saltire—represent not just funding, but trust and investment in your future.

With research, early planning, and dedication, you can position yourself as a strong candidate. Beyond financial support, these scholarships offer personal transformation and global community impact. Good luck on your journey—you’re closer than you think.