Top 10 UK Scholarships for International Students (2025–2026)

The United Kingdom remains a premier destination for international students, offering a plethora of scholarships to support academic pursuits. For 2025/2026, several prestigious scholarships are available, catering to various fields and levels of study. Below is an overview of the top 10 UK scholarships for international students in 2025/2026

1. Chevening Scholarships

   • Fully funded by the UK government, these scholarships support outstanding individuals from over 160 countries to pursue a one-year master’s degree at any UK university.

   • They cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. Aston University+4GoStudyIn+4Study UK+4

2. Gates Cambridge Scholarships

   • Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, these scholarships are awarded to exceptional applicants from outside the UK to pursue full-time postgraduate degrees at the University of Cambridge.

   • They cover all costs, including tuition, maintenance, and airfare. Wikipedia+1GoStudyIn+1University Living

3. Commonwealth Scholarships

   • Targeted at students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries, these scholarships fund master’s and PhD studies in the UK.

   • They cover tuition fees, airfare, and a living allowance.

4. Rhodes Scholarships

   • One of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programs, the Rhodes Scholarship supports postgraduate study at the University of Oxford.

   • It covers all university and living expenses. Wikipedia

5. Clarendon Fund Scholarships

   • Offered by the University of Oxford, these scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and potential across all graduate degree-bearing courses.

   • They cover tuition and provide a generous living stipend. Wikipedia

6. Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships

   • Aimed at future leaders from developing and emerging economies, this program offers full funding for select master’s degrees at Oxford, along with leadership training. Wikipedia

7. GREAT Scholarships

   • Jointly funded by the UK government and participating UK universities, these scholarships offer £10,000 towards tuition fees for one-year postgraduate courses.

   • They are available to students from 18 countries, including Nigeria. Study UKStudy UK+1Study UK+1

8. Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS)

   • These scholarships provide opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to pursue a two-year master’s degree in low- or middle-income Commonwealth countries, promoting cultural exchange and academic collaboration. Association of Commonwealth Universities

9. Think Big Scholarships (University of Bristol)

   • The University of Bristol offers these scholarships to international students for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, with awards ranging from £5,000 to £20,000. University of Bristol

10. Jardine Scholarships

    • Funded by the Jardine Foundation, these scholarships are awarded to students from select Asian countries to study at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge.

    • They cover tuition fees, college fees, and provide an annual stipend.

✅ Tips for Applicants

• Start Early: Application deadlines vary, with some closing as early as October or November 2025/2026.

• Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all criteria, including academic qualifications and work experience.

• Prepare Documents: Gather transcripts, reference letters, and personal statements well in advance.

• Language Requirements: Some scholarships may waive IELTS/TOEFL requirements; verify each program’s stipulations             

  Conclusion

  The UK offers a diverse array of scholarship opportunities for international students, each with its unique eligibility criteria and benefits. Prospective applicants should carefully review the specific requirements and deadlines for each scholarship and prepare their applications accordingly. Securing one of these scholarships can provide not only financial support but also access to world-class education and global networks.