Fully Funded Scholarships in United Kingdom for International Students 2026/2027
Studying in the United Kingdom is a dream for many international students due to its world-class universities, global career opportunities, and internationally respected degrees. However, the cost of tuition, accommodation, and living expenses can be overwhelming for students from developing countries. Fortunately, there are numerous fully funded scholarships in the United Kingdom for international students 2026/2027 that can help you study without financial stress.
Fully funded scholarships typically cover tuition fees, monthly stipends, accommodation, travel costs, visa fees, and health insurance, allowing students to focus entirely on academic success. Many of these scholarships are funded by the UK government, universities, and global foundations, making them accessible to talented students worldwide.
This comprehensive guide explores the top fully funded UK scholarships for 2026/2027, eligibility requirements, benefits, application strategies, and tips to improve your chances of winning.
Why Study in the United Kingdom on a Fully Funded Scholarship?
The UK remains one of the most attractive destinations for international education. Apart from academic prestige, scholarship recipients enjoy several advantages:
- Access to globally ranked universities
- Exposure to multicultural learning environments
- Post-study work opportunities
- Strong research and innovation networks
- Career advancement and international employability
Most fully funded scholarships cover tuition fees that typically range between £15,000 and £35,000 per year, plus monthly stipends and travel allowances, enabling students to graduate debt-free.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK for International Students 2026/2027
1. Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most prestigious UK government scholarships for future global leaders. It supports students from over 160 countries pursuing one-year master’s degrees.
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Travel costs to and from the UK
- Visa and arrival allowances
- Networking and leadership development
Eligibility Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree equivalent to UK 2:1
- At least two years of work experience
- Leadership and networking potential
Application Period: February – November 2026 for the 2026 intake.
Official Application Link:
https://www.chevening.org/
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarship is designed for students from Commonwealth countries who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to development impact.
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Return airfare
- Research and thesis grants
Hundreds of fully funded awards are offered yearly for master’s and PhD programs, making it one of the best opportunities for African students.
Application Deadline: Usually October each year.
Official Application Link:
https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/
3. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship supports outstanding international students pursuing postgraduate degrees at the University of Cambridge.
- Full tuition and college fees
- Annual maintenance allowance
- Travel costs
- Academic development funding
This scholarship targets students with exceptional intellectual ability and leadership commitment.
4. Rhodes Scholarship at Oxford University
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarships. It fully funds postgraduate study at Oxford University.
- University and college fees
- Monthly stipend
- Travel allowance
- Settling-in support
Applicants are assessed based on academic excellence, leadership, and character.
5. Clarendon Fund Scholarship
The Clarendon Fund offers over 200 fully funded scholarships annually for graduate study at Oxford.
- Full tuition coverage
- Annual living stipend
- Automatically considered with course application
6. Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarship
This scholarship supports outstanding PhD candidates at the University of Warwick.
- Full overseas tuition
- Maintenance stipend
- Research and training grants
7. Imperial College London PhD Scholarships
Imperial College offers fully funded doctoral scholarships for high-achieving international students with strong research potential.
- Full tuition
- Generous stipend
- Research funding
8. University of Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships
These scholarships support international PhD students across multiple research disciplines.
- Full tuition coverage
- Annual stipend
- Research collaboration opportunities
9. Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies Scholarship
This scholarship covers full tuition and living expenses for students whose research benefits the Muslim world.
- Full tuition
- Living cost grant
- Research opportunities
10. British Council Women in STEM Scholarships
This program supports female students pursuing STEM master’s degrees in the UK.
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Travel and visa support
Eligibility Criteria for Fully Funded UK Scholarships
Although requirements vary by scholarship, most programs require:
- Strong academic performance
- Proof of English proficiency
- Leadership or research potential
- Personal statement and recommendation letters
- Admission offer from a UK university
Documents Required for Application
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- International passport
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
- Proof of English language proficiency
How to Apply for UK Fully Funded Scholarships
- Choose your preferred course and university
- Apply for admission
- Prepare scholarship documents
- Submit scholarship application before deadline
- Attend interviews if shortlisted
Tips to Increase Your Scholarship Chances
- Maintain a strong academic GPA
- Highlight leadership experience
- Write a compelling personal statement
- Secure strong recommendation letters
- Apply to multiple scholarships
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing application deadlines
- Submitting generic personal statements
- Ignoring scholarship eligibility requirements
- Incomplete documentation
Best Courses Covered by UK Fully Funded Scholarships
- Engineering and Technology
- Health and Medical Sciences
- Business and Economics
- Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
- Environmental and Climate Studies
- Social Sciences and Public Policy
When to Apply for 2026/2027 Scholarships
Most fully funded UK scholarships open between August 2025 and March 2026. It is advisable to start preparing documents at least 6–12 months before deadlines.
Conclusion
Securing a fully funded scholarship in the United Kingdom for 2026/2027 can completely transform your academic and professional journey. With numerous government-funded and university-based scholarships available, international students have realistic opportunities to study in the UK without financial burden.
The key to success lies in early preparation, strong academic records, leadership experience, and strategic application. Whether you choose Chevening, Commonwealth, Gates Cambridge, or university-funded awards, persistence and preparation will significantly improve your chances. If studying in the UK has always been your dream, now is the best time to begin your scholarship journey and position yourself for global success.
