Understanding Fully Funded Study in the UK

Dreaming of fully funded study in the UK but not sure where to start?

This guide breaks down what “fully funded” actually covers, how to find the right scholarships, what you need to be eligible, and smart strategies to craft a winning application—plus trusted resources to help you move from browsing to admitted.

From government awards to university scholarships, there are multiple routes to achieve your academic goals at renowned British institutions. Below, you’ll find the essential steps and links to programs that consistently fund international students.

What “fully funded” really means

In the UK context, a fully funded award typically pays full tuition and provides a living stipend (often aligned to standard UK doctoral/master’s rates), and may also include visa fees, the immigration health surcharge, flights, and research or arrival allowances. The exact package varies by scholarship and level of study.

For master’s and PhD awards, you can expect full fees plus a stipend intended to cover reasonable living costs; some include additional allowances for conferences, fieldwork, or dependants, while others do not. Always read the offer letter’s small print to confirm what’s covered and what isn’t.

Who funds these awards? A mix of UK government programs, university endowments and colleges, research councils, and philanthropic foundations—each with distinct missions, eligibility criteria, and timelines.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Essentials for UK Study Funding

While every scholarship has its own rules, you’ll commonly see the following requirements:

• Academic excellence: A strong GPA or degree classification; competitive test scores if required.
• English language readiness: Proof via recognized tests if applicable; also check Student visa rules for minimums and financial requirements.
• Leadership and impact: Evidence of community engagement, innovation, or professional responsibility is highly valued by many funders.
• Clear goals: A compelling rationale for the UK, your chosen program, and how the degree advances your contribution at home or globally.
• References: Strong academic or professional referees who can speak to your achievements and potential.
• Program admission: Many funders require an offer (conditional or unconditional) from a UK university before final award.
• Citizenship/residency fit: Some schemes are country- or region-specific; confirm eligibility early.

Application essentials usually include transcripts, CV, personal statement or essays, research proposal (for PhD), reference letters, passport ID page, and proof of English. For credential comparison or recognition questions, consult ECCTIS. For immigration and fee-status guidance, UKCISA is a trusted resource.

Navigating the Landscape of Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK

Government and national programs

• Chevening Scholarships (Master’s): UK government program supporting outstanding future leaders from around the world.
• Commonwealth Scholarships (Master’s/PhD): For citizens of eligible Commonwealth countries; many awards include full fees and stipends.
• Marshall Scholarships (Master’s): Fully funded study for exceptional US graduates at UK universities.

University and college scholarships

• Rhodes Scholarship (Oxford, Master’s/PhD): Full funding plus leadership development for exceptional candidates.
• Gates Cambridge (Cambridge, Master’s/PhD): Full fees, maintenance, and additional support based on need.
• Clarendon Fund (Oxford, graduate): Full fees and a generous stipend for high-achieving candidates across disciplines.

Research councils and studentships

• UKRI studentships (PhD/MRes): Fully funded doctoral training partnerships and centres for doctoral training across the UK; typically include fees and stipend.

Where to search

• British Council: Study UK scholarship finder aggregates university and government opportunities.
• UCAS for undergraduate admissions and funding guidance.
• FindAMasters funding search for taught/research master’s funding.
• FindAPhD funding search for doctoral studentships and scholarships.

Fully Funded Options for Undergraduates

Fully funded undergraduate awards for international students are rarer than postgraduate awards, but they do exist—often targeted at students with exceptional academic merit and significant financial need. Look closely at university pages and eligibility notes.

• Reach Oxford Scholarship: For students from low-income countries who cannot study in their own country; can include full fees and living costs.
• UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship: Substantial awards for international students with financial need, with a number covering full costs.
• LSE Undergraduate Support Scheme: Means-tested funding that can cover tuition and living costs depending on need.

Tip: Some “merit” awards reduce fees while separate need-based funds cover living costs. Combine opportunities—merit scholarships, need-based grants, and departmental awards—to reach full funding.

Costs beyond tuition (and how to cover them)

Even fully funded scholarships can vary on extras. Budget for:

• Visa and healthcare: Student visa application fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Some scholarships reimburse these; others don’t.
• Housing and deposits: Upfront rent or deposits, especially in high-demand cities.
• Relocation: Flights, luggage, winter clothing, and start-up costs.
• Academic materials: Books, equipment, printing, and software.
• Dependants: Funding rarely covers family members; plan separately if applicable.

To close gaps, explore university hardship funds and bursaries, consider on-campus roles, and check your work permissions under the Student visa (typically up to 20 hours/week in term time). UKCISA offers detailed guidance on cost planning and fee status.

Tips for a Winning Application

• Start 12–18 months ahead: Most major programs open in late summer/early autumn for the following academic year.
• Map eligibility first: Match your citizenship, degree level, and subject to specific schemes before writing essays.
• Write a purpose-driven story: Show how your background, leadership, and goals align with the funder’s mission and your chosen UK program.
• Be concrete: Use results, metrics, or outcomes (e.g., “led a team of 8, expanded access for 2,000 users”) to evidence impact.
• Secure tailored references: Brief referees with your CV and draft essays so their letters reinforce your narrative.
• Demonstrate UK fit: Reference specific modules, labs, or supervisors; explain why the UK is essential to your aims.
• Perfect the basics: Proofread meticulously; follow word limits and file formats; rename files clearly.
• Prepare for interviews: Practice policy/current affairs questions (for leadership awards) and research depth (for PhD awards).
• Have a financial plan: Show awareness of living costs, visa, and IHS—even if fully funded—so panels trust your readiness.
• Apply broadly but smartly: Prioritize a handful of best-fit programs rather than dozens of generic applications.

Ready to begin? Your action plan

• List 5–8 target UK programs and check funding tabs on each page.
• Identify 3–5 scholarships that match your profile (e.g., Chevening, Commonwealth, university awards).
• Draft your statement, request references early, and line up proof of English.
• Use Study UK’s scholarship finder, FindAMasters, and FindAPhD to expand options.
• Confirm visa timelines and finances via the official Student visa page; consult UKCISA for fee status and policy updates.

With clarity on what “fully funded” covers, a targeted search strategy, and polished application materials, you can turn your UK study ambitions into a fully funded reality. Use the links above to start shortlisting today—and good luck with your applications!