How much can I expect in scholarship funding for master's programs in the UK and UAE, specifically for Chevening and GREAT scholarships in the UK, and for top universities like Khalifa University and MBZUAI in the UAE?

Chevening and GREAT are often bundled together as though they offer a similar amount, but they are structurally different awards. Understanding that difference changes how you plan the rest of your budget.

Chevening: A Fully Funded Package

Chevening is a comprehensive scholarship, not a partial grant. It covers 100% of tuition, a monthly living stipend, return flights to the UK, and visa related allowances for a one year master's. It is highly competitive and requires a separate, detailed application process well ahead of the course start date.

GREAT Scholarships: A Fixed £10,000 Award

GREAT scholarships, run through the British Council's Study UK program, give a fixed £10,000 toward tuition for an eligible one year master's. They do not cover living costs or the remaining tuition balance, so you still need a separate funding plan for the rest of the year.

UAE: Khalifa University and MBZUAI Funding

Khalifa University's benefit package depends on the scholarship tier you are offered, and can include accommodation, health insurance, flights and textbooks alongside tuition. MBZUAI funds its master's students fully when admitted with funding, though funding is not guaranteed for every admitted student, so confirm your offer's exact terms before assuming full coverage.

This Information Is Also Available On

Chevening's official scholarship pages describe the award's coverage. Study UK, run by the British Council, publishes current GREAT scholarship terms by partner university. Khalifa University and MBZUAI publish their own master's funding and fee guidance.

My Advice

Apply to Chevening only if you can commit to its full, separate application timeline well in advance; it is worth the effort given the scope of funding. If you're leaning UAE instead, ask Khalifa University or MBZUAI directly which funding tier you're being considered for before you finalise your budget, since the gap between a partial and a full award is large.