Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in UK

Studying in the United Kingdom is a dream for many young Indians. With its globally recognized universities, diverse academic programs, and rich cultural exposure, the UK offers unmatched value — but it also comes with a significant financial cost. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships for Indian students to study in UK, helping reduce the financial burden and making international education more accessible than ever.

In this article, we’ll explore the most popular funding options, explain how to get scholarship, and share tips for applying — whether you’re planning to study after 12th or pursuing your postgraduate degree.

Contents:

• Why scholarships matter for Indian students
• Top scholarships to study in UK for Indian students
• Scholarships after 12th for undergraduate study
• How to get scholarship to study in UK
• Final thoughts

Why Scholarships Matter for Indian Students

The cost of studying in the UK can range from £10,000 to £30,000 per year for tuition alone, depending on your course and institution. Living expenses are separate, often adding another £10,000–£12,000 annually. That’s why finding a scholarship to study in UK for Indian students can be a game-changer, making high-quality education affordable without compromising on academic aspirations.

Top Scholarships to Study in UK for Indian Students

Here are some of the most sought-after scholarships to study in UK for Indian students:

1. Chevening Scholarships. Funded by the UK government, Chevening is one of the most prestigious scholarships for postgraduate study. It covers full tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.

2. Commonwealth Scholarships. Offered to students from Commonwealth countries, these scholarships are primarily for master’s and PhD programs and are fully funded.

3. GREAT Scholarships. Jointly funded by the UK Government and individual universities, this program offers £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate course.

4. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships. Designed for early to mid-career professionals in fields like arts, heritage conservation, and humanities.

5. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships. These are available for postgraduate study at select UK institutions in specific disciplines like arts, design, and social sciences.

6. University-Specific Scholarships. Many UK universities offer generous undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships for Indian students. Examples include:

• University of Oxford — Rhodes Scholarships
• University of Cambridge — Cambridge Trust Scholarships
• University of Warwick — Chancellor’s International Scholarships

Scholarships After 12th for Undergraduate Study

If you’re applying right after 12th, several UK universities provide undergraduate scholarships specifically for Indian students. These may be merit-based or need-based, and can cover part or full tuition costs. Examples include:

• University of Bristol — Think Big Undergraduate Scholarships
• University of Nottingham — South Asia Undergraduate Excellence Award
• University of Dundee — Global Excellence Scholarships

How to Get Scholarship to Study in UK

Wondering how to get scholarship? Here are some tips to increase your chances:

• Start Early: Most scholarships have deadlines 8–12 months before the course begins.
• Strong Academics: Most scholarships are merit-based — excellent grades matter.
• Impressive Personal Statement: Showcase your motivation, goals, and leadership.
• References: Choose academic referees who know you well.
• Tailor Each Application: Customize your documents for each scholarship.

Remember, competition is high — so attention to detail can make a big difference.

Final Thoughts

So, we’ve explored the most popular scholarships for Indian students to study in the UK — both after 12th and at the postgraduate level. Make sure you start your preparation early — the sooner you apply, the higher your chances of receiving a scholarship and reducing your study expenses.

For more information, visit the official website UCAS (under Finance and support).