Studying in the UK can be expensive, but the good news is that there are many scholarships in UK for Indian students that can significantly reduce your financial burden.
From fully funded government scholarships to university-specific grants, Indian students have access to a wide range of funding opportunities. The key is knowing which scholarships to apply for, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
If you are planning your study abroad journey, you can also explore the broader landscape of study in UK for Indian students to understand how scholarships fit into the overall process.
This guide covers:
Ready To Study Abroad?
Speak to an Expert – 100% Free
- Top UK scholarships for Indian students
- Eligibility and benefits
- Application timelines
- Tips to increase your chances
Why Study in the UK with Scholarships?
Scholarships can help you:
- Reduce tuition fees significantly
- Cover living expenses
- Access top universities
- Improve your return on investment
Many students assume UK education is unaffordable, but with the right funding strategy, it becomes much more accessible.
Top Scholarships in the UK for Indian Students
Below are the most popular and valuable scholarships available for Indian students.
Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships offered by the UK government.
- Covers full tuition fees
- Includes living expenses and travel costs
- Available for 1-year master’s programs
Eligibility:
- Minimum 2 years of work experience
- Strong leadership potential
Deadline:
- Typically November each year
Commonwealth Scholarship
This scholarship is designed for students from Commonwealth countries, including India.
- Covers tuition fees
- Provides living allowance
- Includes travel costs
Eligibility:
- Strong academic background
- Financial need
Deadline:
- December to January
GREAT Scholarships
GREAT Scholarships are jointly funded by the UK government and participating universities.
- Value: £10,000 towards tuition fees
- Available for various courses
Eligibility:
- Academic merit
- Offer letter from participating university
Deadline:
- Varies by university
Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships
Ideal for students in arts, heritage, and humanities fields.
- Covers accommodation and living costs
- Short-term and long-term grants available
Eligibility:
- Indian citizen
- Relevant academic or professional background
Deadline:
- January to February
University-Specific Scholarships
Many UK universities offer their own scholarships for Indian students.
Examples include:
- University of Oxford (Clarendon Fund)
- University of Cambridge (Gates Cambridge Scholarship)
- University of Edinburgh Global Scholarships
- University of Manchester Global Futures
These scholarships vary in value and eligibility but can significantly reduce tuition costs.
To explore more options, refer to scholarships in the UK for Indian students.
Scholarship Comparison Table
| Scholarship Name | Coverage | Eligibility | Deadline |
| Chevening | Full funding | Work experience + leadership | November |
| Commonwealth | Full funding | Academic merit + need | Dec–Jan |
| GREAT | £10,000 | University-specific | Varies |
| Charles Wallace | Partial funding | Arts & humanities | Jan–Feb |
| University Scholarships | Partial/Full | Merit-based | Varies |
Types of Scholarships Available
There are different types of scholarships you can apply for:
Merit-Based Scholarships
- Based on academic performance
- Most common type
Need-Based Scholarships
- Based on financial background
Course-Specific Scholarships
- Available for specific programs like MBA or Data Science
Country-Specific Scholarships
- Designed specifically for Indian students
How to Apply for Scholarships in the UK
Follow these steps:
- Choose your course and university
- Check available scholarships
- Prepare required documents
- Apply before deadlines
- Attend interviews (if required)
Documents Required for Scholarship Applications
You typically need:
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume/CV
- English language test scores
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship
- Apply early
- Maintain strong academic scores
- Write a compelling SOP
- Highlight leadership and achievements
- Apply to multiple scholarships
Can Scholarships Cover Full Costs?
Yes, but only some scholarships are fully funded.
Fully funded options:
- Chevening
- Commonwealth
Partial scholarships:
- GREAT
- University-specific
For overall budgeting, it’s important to also understand the cost of studying in the UK.
Education Loans as an Alternative
If scholarships do not cover all expenses, you can consider education loans.
Explore options through education loan for UK studies AEC overseas.
FAQs
What are the best scholarships in the UK for Indian students?
Chevening, Commonwealth, and GREAT Scholarships are among the top options.
Can Indian students get full scholarships in the UK?
Yes, fully funded scholarships like Chevening and Commonwealth are available.
When should I apply for UK scholarships?
Most deadlines fall between November and January.
Are scholarships easy to get in the UK?
They are competitive but achievable with a strong profile.
Final Thoughts
Securing scholarships in UK for Indian students can make your study abroad dream much more affordable. With proper planning, strong applications, and early preparation, you can significantly reduce your financial burden.
If you need expert help in identifying the right scholarships and preparing strong applications, connect with trusted UK study abroad consultants.
You can also get free counselling for UK studies and personalized guidance for scholarships and admissions.



