Studying in the UK is a dream for many international students. The country offers world-class universities, a rich cultural experience, and a vibrant student life. But let’s be honest — tuition fees and living costs can be quite high. Thankfully, there are plenty of undergraduate scholarships in the UK for international students that can help cover these expenses and make studying abroad more affordable.
If you’re planning to apply in 2025, here’s everything you need to know about some of the best scholarships available.
Why Choose the UK for Undergraduate Study?
- Top-ranked universities like Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, and more
- Relatively short degree programs (usually 3 years)
- Access to cutting-edge facilities and research opportunities
- A multicultural environment welcoming students from all over the world
- Possibility of post-study work opportunities
Popular Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students
1. University of Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarships
- Partial scholarships worth £2,000 to £10,000
- Based on academic merit and financial need
- Open to all international students applying for undergraduate courses
2. University of Bristol Think Big Undergraduate Scholarships
- £5,000 scholarships renewable for up to 3 years
- Awarded based on merit to international students
- Open across a wide range of subjects
3. Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarships
- Up to £5,000 per year
- Renewable for the full duration of the degree
- Awarded for outstanding academic achievement
4. Durham University Global Excellence Undergraduate Scholarships
- £5,000 scholarships for high-achieving international students
- Available across various undergraduate programs
5. University of Westminster International Scholarships
- Partial scholarships to help cover tuition fees
- Focus on academic merit and potential contribution to the university community
Scholarship Comparison Table
| Scholarship Name | Coverage | Amount (GBP) | Renewable? | University |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh Global Undergraduate | Partial tuition | £2,000 – £10,000 | No | University of Edinburgh |
| Bristol Think Big | Partial tuition | £5,000 | Yes (up to 3 years) | University of Bristol |
| Warwick Chancellor’s International | Partial tuition | Up to £5,000 per year | Yes | University of Warwick |
| Durham Global Excellence | Partial tuition | £5,000 | No | Durham University |
| Westminster International | Partial tuition | Varies | No | University of Westminster |
Tips to Boost Your Scholarship Application
- Start early: Scholarship deadlines often come months before the academic year starts.
- Prepare a strong personal statement: Focus on your academic goals, why you chose the UK, and how you will contribute to the campus community.
- Get recommendation letters: Teachers or mentors who know your academic abilities well.
- Showcase extracurricular activities: Leadership roles, volunteer work, or unique experiences can make you stand out.
- Meet all requirements: Some scholarships ask for proof of financial need or English proficiency. Double-check!
Typical Timeline for Applying (2025 Entry)
| Month | Task |
|---|---|
| June – August | Research scholarships & universities |
| September | Prepare and submit university applications |
| October – December | Submit scholarship applications |
| January – February | Interviews (if any) & decisions |
| March – April | Receive offers & accept scholarships |
Final Thoughts
There are lots of great opportunities for international students to receive funding for their undergraduate studies in the UK. While scholarships might be competitive, preparation and a strong application can significantly increase your chances.
Don’t hesitate to contact university scholarship offices for guidance — they’re there to help! And remember, even partial scholarships can make a huge difference in managing expenses abroad.
