The GREAT Scholarships are joint initiative between the British Council and the UK government’s GREAT Britain campaign. These scholarships are designed to support international students pursuing one-year, taught postgraduate degrees in the UK.
For the 2025/2026 academic year, more than 200 scholarships are available. Each award offers a minimum of £10,000 toward tuition fees for eligible Master’s programs at UK universities.
What the Scholarship Covers
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Funding amount: £10,000 toward tuition fees
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Course level: One-year taught postgraduate programs (e.g., MA, MSc)
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Duration: Academic year 2025/2026
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Universities involved: 71 institutions across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
Eligibility: Countries Covered
The GREAT Scholarships are available to students from the following 18 countries:
Each country’s official scholarship page includes a detailed list of participating universities, the eligible postgraduate courses, and specific guidance on how to submit your application.
Participating Universities
More than 70 UK universities take part in the GREAT Scholarships program. These institutions offer a variety of postgraduate courses in areas such as law, engineering, science, public policy, business, and the arts.
To explore eligible universities and programs, visit the GREAT Scholarships university listing.
How to Apply
The application process consists of three main steps:
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Choose a Course and University
Select a postgraduate taught course at one of the participating universities. Each university has a list of courses eligible for the GREAT Scholarship. -
Apply for Admission
Submit your application directly to the university for your chosen course. Ensure you meet all academic and language requirements before applying. -
Apply for the Scholarship
After applying for the course, submit a separate application for the GREAT Scholarship. The scholarship application process and deadline will vary by university.
Visit the GREAT Scholarships apply page to learn more.
Key Dates
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Application deadlines: These differ by university. Check the deadline on the scholarship page of the university you are applying to.
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Start of study: Most programs begin in September or October 2025.
Additional Information
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Welcome & Networking Events: Successful applicants will be invited to a welcome event in the first semester and a networking event in the second semester, giving scholars the chance to connect with peers and professionals in the UK.
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Scholar Responsibilities: Recipients are expected to act as ambassadors for the UK. This may include sharing their experiences through written or video content or taking part in promotional events related to the scholarship.
Who Should Apply
This scholarship is ideal for students who:
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Are from one of the eligible countries listed above
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Intend to pursue a Master’s degree in the UK
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Can demonstrate academic merit and career ambition
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Would benefit from partial financial support for tuition fees
How to Get Started
Begin by selecting your country on the official GREAT Scholarships page to access a list of participating universities and available courses. Each university provides detailed instructions on how to apply for both the course and the scholarship. Be sure to review eligibility, course-specific requirements, and application deadlines directly on the university’s page.
For full details and step-by-step guidance, visit the official GREAT Scholarships website.
You may also explore other UK funding options:
