Are you dreaming of studying in the UK without worrying about tuition or living costs? The UK offers a wide range of fully funded scholarship opportunities for international students. These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but also provide allowances for living expenses, travel, and sometimes even healthcare. Whether you’re pursuing a master’s degree, PhD, or undergraduate program, these scholarships can make studying in the UK affordable and accessible.
In this guide, we’ve compiled the 10 best fully funded UK scholarships for 2025, each offering generous financial support and global career-building opportunities. These programs are ideal for high-achieving students looking to access world-class education in the UK—completely free of charge.
1. Chevening Scholarships (UK Government)
Chevening is one of the most prestigious government-funded UK scholarships for international students. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, it supports students from over 160 countries to pursue a one-year master’s degree at any UK university.
Benefits:
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Full tuition coverage
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Monthly living allowance
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Return airfare to your home country
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Access to an exclusive global alumni network
Ideal For:
Professionals with at least two years of work experience and strong leadership potential.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
This UK-funded scholarship is specifically for students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries. It supports master’s and PhD programs across a wide range of disciplines.
What It Covers:
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Tuition fees
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Living expenses
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Airfare
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Research support and family allowances (in some cases)
Scholarship Types:
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Master’s Scholarships
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PhD Scholarships
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Split-site Scholarships (study in both home and UK institutions)
3. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship allows international students to study full-time postgraduate programs at the University of Cambridge.
Key Features:
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Covers full cost of study, including tuition and living expenses
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Additional funding for dependents
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Networking with global changemakers
Who Can Apply:
Exceptional applicants with a commitment to leadership and making a positive global impact.
4. Rhodes Scholarship at Oxford University
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the oldest and most prestigious fully funded UK scholarships. Established in 1902, it supports international students to study at the University of Oxford.
What’s Included:
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Full university fees
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Living stipend
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Two economy-class flights (to and from the UK)
Selection Criteria:
Academic brilliance, leadership skills, and a strong commitment to community or public service.
5. Clarendon Fund Scholarships (University of Oxford)
Offered to international graduate students, the Clarendon Fund provides about 140 scholarships annually based purely on academic merit.
Benefits:
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100% of tuition and college fees
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Annual living expenses grant
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Open to all disciplines at Oxford
6. President’s PhD Scholarships – Imperial College London
If you’re looking to pursue cutting-edge PhD research in science or technology, the President’s PhD Scholarship at Imperial College London is a top choice.
Coverage:
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Full tuition
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Annual stipend (£25,000+)
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£2,000 consumables budget
Added Value:
Access to top-tier labs and collaboration with global researchers.
7. University of Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship
Although this scholarship only covers tuition fees, the University of Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship is still a valuable opportunity for PhD candidates.
Details:
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Available for any research field
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Open to all international students
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Covers full tuition (3 years)
8. University of Sheffield International Merit Postgraduate Scholarship
This fully funded postgraduate scholarship is open to students from non-EU countries who demonstrate academic excellence.
Perks:
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Full tuition fees
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Monthly stipend
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Research support and accommodation
Sheffield is known for its world-class research programs and welcoming international student community.
9. Westminster Full International Scholarship
Aimed at undergraduates from developing countries, the University of Westminster Full Scholarship is among the few in the UK that covers all major expenses for bachelor’s degree students.
It Covers:
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Tuition fees
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Housing and living costs
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Flights to/from the UK
Perfect for students with limited financial means but big dreams.
10. University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarships
Offered to top international students who have secured a spot at the University of Sussex, this scholarship supports a wide range of postgraduate programs.
Scholarship Inclusions:
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Full tuition waiver
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Merit-based selection
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Available for most subjects
How to Apply for Fully Funded UK Scholarships
To boost your chances of winning one of these competitive scholarships, follow these expert tips:
✅ Start Early
Most scholarship deadlines fall 6–12 months before the academic year. Prepare your documents (CV, transcripts, references) well in advance.
✅ Write a Powerful Personal Statement
Clearly articulate your academic goals, leadership experience, and how studying in the UK aligns with your future plans.
✅ Secure an Admission Offer
Many scholarships require proof of admission to a UK university. Apply to your target program as early as possible.
✅ Emphasize Social Impact and Leadership
Demonstrate how you’ve contributed to your community or led projects. These traits are valued by Chevening, Rhodes, and Gates Cambridge alike.
✅ Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Increase your chances of success by applying to several programs that fit your qualifications and goals.
FAQs About Fully Funded UK Scholarships
Can I apply for more than one scholarship at once?
Yes! Many students apply for multiple awards. Just make sure to check each program’s terms—some may not allow holding more than one scholarship simultaneously.
Do I need work experience?
Not always. While Chevening prefers applicants with work experience, many others like Clarendon and Rhodes focus more on academic excellence and leadership.
Are undergraduate scholarships available too?
Yes. Options like the Westminster Full International Scholarship cater specifically to undergraduates from developing countries.
Can I stay in the UK after graduation?
That depends. Some scholarships (e.g., Chevening) require returning to your home country, while others have no such restrictions. Always review the scholarship terms.
Final Thoughts
Studying in the UK no longer needs to be a financial burden. These top fully funded scholarships for international students are life-changing opportunities that cover everything from tuition to travel. With careful planning and a strong application, you can unlock your academic future in one of the world’s top study destinations.
Ready to study in the UK for free? Start your scholarship application today!
