Studying in the UK offers Indian students access to world-class education, diverse cultural experiences, and robust career prospects. Numerous scholarships, ranging from fully funded to partial awards, are available specifically for Indian students.
Top 10 Scholarships in UK for Indian Students (2025–26)
These scholarships are offered by the UK government, universities, and private institutions, aiming to support students across various disciplines and levels of study.
Here’s a list of top UK scholarships for Indian students:
- Chevening Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- GREAT Scholarships
- Rhodes Scholarships
- Gates Cambridge Scholarships
- Charles Wallace India Trust (CWIT) Scholarships
- Felix Scholarships
- Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
- British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM
- Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarships
Let’s get detailed information on who provides them, their benefits, eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and the subjects they’re most popular in, helping you make informed decisions and prepare a strong application.
Chevening Scholarships
A prestigious UK government-funded program, Chevening Scholarships support outstanding Indian professionals with leadership potential to pursue one-year master’s degrees at top UK universities.
- Provided by: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
- Targeted for: Mid-career professionals with leadership potential
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, and visa costs
- What They Look For: Leadership qualities, strong academic background, and at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience
- Deadline to Apply: Typically opens in August and closes in November; for 2025-26, applications are expected to open in August 2024 and close in November 2024
- Eligibility: Indian citizens with an undergraduate degree and two years of work experience
- Popular in (Subjects): Public policy, international relations, business, and environmental science
Commonwealth Scholarships
Funded by the UK government, this scholarship supports Indian students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to pursue postgraduate study and research in the UK, especially in fields linked to development.
- Provided by: UK Department for International Development (DFID)
- Targeted for: Students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries
- Benefits: Tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses
- What They Look For: Academic excellence and financial need
- Deadline to Apply: December 2025
- Eligibility: Indian citizens with an undergraduate degree, not able to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship
- Popular in (Subjects): Engineering, agriculture, health, and education
GREAT Scholarships
Jointly funded by the British Council and participating UK universities, GREAT Scholarships offer Indian students £10,000 towards tuition for one-year master’s programs across a range of disciplines.
- Provided by: British Council and UK universities
- Targeted for: Indian students pursuing one-year postgraduate courses
- Benefits: £10,000 towards tuition fees
- What They Look For: Academic excellence and interest in the proposed subject area
- Deadline to Apply: June 2025
- Eligibility: Indian citizens with an undergraduate degree and proficiency in English
- Popular in (Subjects): STEM, law, business, art and design
Rhodes Scholarships
One of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programs, the Rhodes Scholarship fully funds exceptional Indian students to pursue postgraduate degrees at the University of Oxford.
- Provided by: Rhodes Trust
- Targeted for: Exceptional Indian students under 25 years old
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, living stipend, and travel expenses
- What They Look For: Academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to service
- Deadline to Apply: Applications open on 2 June 2025 and close on 23 July 2025
- Eligibility: Indian citizens with an undergraduate degree, aged 19-25
- Popular in (Subjects): Humanities, law, sciences, and social sciences
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Established by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship funds outstanding Indian students to study full-time postgraduate programs at the University of Cambridge, with a focus on leadership and global impact.
- Provided by: Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
- Targeted for: Outstanding applicants from outside the UK
- Benefits: Full cost of study, including tuition, maintenance allowance, and airfare
- What They Look For: Academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to improving the lives of others
- Deadline to Apply: December 2025
- Eligibility: Indian citizens applying for a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge
- Popular in (Subjects): All subjects available at the University of Cambridge
Charles Wallace India Trust (CWIT) Scholarships
These scholarships support Indian professionals and mid-career artists to undertake short- or long-term training and research in arts, heritage conservation, or humanities in the UK.
- Provided by: Charles Wallace India Trust
- Targeted for: Indian professionals in arts, heritage conservation, or humanities
- Benefits: Tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses
- What They Look For: Significant working experience and a first degree or diploma in their specialisation
- Deadline to Apply: Applications typically close in February; for 2025–26, the deadline is expected to be 28 February 2026
- Eligibility: Indian citizens aged between 28 and 38, not received a CWIT grant within the last five years
- Popular in (Subjects): Visual arts, performing arts, heritage conservation
Felix Scholarships
The Felix Scholarship provides full financial support for academically gifted and economically disadvantaged Indian students to pursue postgraduate studies at select UK universities, including Oxford and Reading.
- Provided by: University of Oxford, Reading, and SOAS
- Targeted for: Indian students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and return airfare
- What They Look For: Academic excellence and financial need
- Deadline to Apply: Applications typically close in January; for 2026, the deadline is expected to be 30 January 2026
- Eligibility: Indian citizens with a first-class undergraduate degree
- Popular in (Subjects): All full-time postgraduate programs at participating universities
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
The Inlaks Scholarship funds promising young Indian students to pursue full-time postgraduate courses at top UK institutions, with a focus on innovation and academic excellence in arts, humanities, and sciences.
- Provided by: Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation
- Targeted for: Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad
- Benefits: Up to USD 100,000 covering tuition, living expenses, and travel
- What They Look For: Academic excellence and financial need
- Deadline to Apply: Applications typically close in March; for 2026, the deadline is expected to be 31 March 2026
- Eligibility: Indian citizens with an undergraduate degree, aged below 30
- Popular in (Subjects): Humanities, social sciences, fine arts, and related fields
British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM
These scholarships aim to support Indian women with a background in STEM to pursue master’s degrees in the UK, fostering female representation and leadership in science and technology fields.
- Provided by: British Council
- Targeted for: Indian women with a background in STEM
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs
- What They Look For: Academic excellence and a passion for STEM
- Deadline to Apply: Varies by institution; typically between March and May 2026
- Eligibility: Indian women with an undergraduate degree in STEM, applying for a master’s program in the UK
- Popular in (Subjects): Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarships
Offered by St. John’s College, University of Cambridge, this scholarship enables academically outstanding Indian students to undertake doctoral studies in fields such as science, technology, and economics.
- Provided by: St John’s College, University of Cambridge
- Targeted for: Indian students pursuing doctoral studies at the University of Cambridge
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs
- What They Look For: Academic excellence and leadership qualities
- Deadline to Apply: Applications typically close in January; for 2026, the deadline is expected to be January 2026
- Eligibility: Indian citizens with a master’s degree, aged below 35
- Popular in (Subjects): Science and technology
Documents Needed for Getting UK Scholarships
Applying for UK scholarships as an Indian student typically requires a comprehensive set of documents to demonstrate academic merit, financial need, leadership potential, and alignment with the scholarship’s goals. While specific requirements may vary by scholarship and university, here are the commonly required documents:
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates (10th, 12th, and undergraduate/graduate degrees)
- Valid Passport
- Proof of English Language Proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation
- Updated CV/Resume
- Offer Letter from a UK University (some scholarships require proof of admission)
- Proof of Work Experience (if applicable)
- Research Proposal (for research-based programs like PhDs or postdoctoral scholarships)
- Proof of Financial Need (for need-based scholarships like Felix or CWIT)
- Portfolio (for art, design, and performance-based programs)
Always refer to the official scholarship website for an up-to-date checklist and application instructions.
Tips to Get UK Scholarships for Indian Students
Earning a prestigious UK scholarship is competitive but entirely achievable with the right strategy, preparation, and timing. Here are some practical tips to help Indian students improve their chances:
- Start Early: Begin researching scholarships at least a year before your intended intake. Most major scholarships have deadlines 8-12 months in advance.
- Focus on Academics: Maintain a strong academic record with relevant coursework and consistently high grades, especially in your chosen field of study.
- Craft a Compelling SOP: Highlight your academic goals, personal motivations, leadership experience, and how the scholarship aligns with your future plans.
- Demonstrate Leadership & Impact: Most scholarships like Chevening or Rhodes value applicants who show a clear record of initiative, leadership, or social contribution.
- Choose the Right Course & University: Ensure your chosen program aligns with the scholarship’s focus areas (e.g., development, STEM, public policy).
- Polish Your LORs: Request recommendations from people who know your work well and can speak specifically about your strengths and potential.
- Prepare for Interviews: Some scholarships require interviews—practice clear, confident responses about your academic journey, goals, and leadership qualities.
- Track Deadlines Religiously: Create a calendar with deadlines for each scholarship and its stages, application, interviews, documentation, etc.
- Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Don’t limit yourself to one—apply to all scholarships you’re eligible for, as each has different selection criteria.
- Stay Updated: Follow official websites, UK university portals, and the British Council to track new opportunities, webinars, and policy updates.
Conclusion
Securing a scholarship to study in the UK as an Indian student is not just about financial aid, it’s a gateway to global education, cross-cultural experiences, and world-class research opportunities. Whether you’re aiming for a master’s degree, a PhD, or a short-term program, the UK offers a variety of fully and partially funded scholarships tailored to your academic goals and personal aspirations.Take the first step by exploring top UK universities and preparing for your applications with expert support.
Book a free counselling session with Leap Scholar to identify the best scholarships, get application help, and ace your SOP and interviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What are the best scholarships in the UK for Indian students?
Ans. The best scholarships in the UK for Indian students include Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarships, and Rhodes Scholarships. These prestigious programs cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes airfare, ensuring comprehensive support. Scholarships in the UK for Indian students aim to make higher education accessible at globally ranked universities.
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Q. Are there fully funded scholarships for Indian students in the UK?
Ans. Yes, there are several fully funded scholarships for Indian students in the UK, such as Chevening and Felix Scholarships. These cover tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and other costs. Scholarships in the UK for Indian students like these allow them to study without financial constraints and focus entirely on academics.
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Q. What scholarships are available for Indian students to study in the UK after 12th?
Ans. Scholarships for Indian students to study in the UK after 12th include Reach Oxford Scholarships and UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarships. These are designed to help students pursuing bachelor’s degrees. Scholarships in the UK for Indian students at the undergraduate level typically cover tuition fees and may include living allowances.
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Q. How to get a scholarship in the UK for Indian students?
Ans. To get a scholarship in the UK for Indian students, you must maintain excellent academic records, submit a strong application, and meet eligibility criteria. Many scholarships in the UK for Indian students require proof of leadership or financial need. Early preparation and attention to detail are essential to succeed.
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Q. Are there scholarships in the UK for Indian students pursuing undergraduate programs?
Ans. UK scholarships for Indian students undergraduate programs include Think Big Scholarships and University of Sheffield International Merit Scholarships. These scholarships in the UK for Indian students focus on merit and provide financial relief for tuition costs. They help deserving students pursue their dream education abroad.
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Q. What are the most popular UK master’s scholarships for Indian students?
Ans. Popular UK master’s scholarships for Indian students include Gates Cambridge Scholarships, Commonwealth Shared Scholarships, and Clarendon Scholarships. These scholarships in the UK for Indian students fully fund postgraduate studies, covering tuition and living expenses. Master’s students benefit greatly from these opportunities.
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Q. Do Indian students qualify for need-based scholarships in the UK?
Ans. Indian students can apply for need-based scholarships in the UK, such as Reach Oxford Scholarships and Felix Scholarships. These scholarships in the UK for Indian students consider financial hardships along with academic performance. They provide full or partial funding to help students study without financial stress.
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Q. Can Indian students apply for course-specific scholarships in the UK?
Ans. Yes, Indian students can apply for course-specific scholarships in the UK like the Cranfield Athena Scholarship for MSc in Thermal Power. These scholarships in the UK for Indian students target specific fields and provide tailored support. They are ideal for specialised programs like engineering or healthcare.
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Q. What documents are required for scholarships in the UK for Indian students?
Ans. Most scholarships in the UK for Indian students require academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency. Additional documents like personal statements and essays are often needed. These fully funded scholarships for Indian students in the UK may also request proof of financial need or leadership potential.
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Q. Are there scholarships in the UK for Indian students with average grades?
Ans. Scholarships in the UK for Indian students with average grades include programs like GREAT Scholarships, which focus on leadership skills and extracurricular achievements. These scholarships in the UK for Indian students prioritise holistic potential over academic perfection. They are excellent opportunities for passionate students to excel.
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Q. What are the deadlines for UK scholarships for Indian students applying to undergraduate and master’s programs?
Ans. Deadlines for scholarships in the UK for Indian students typically range from October to December for September intakes. Fully funded scholarships for Indian students in the UK often have strict deadlines and require early application. Staying updated on each program’s timeline is crucial to secure financial support.
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