Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in the UK in 2025

The United Kingdom continues to be among the top destinations for higher studies for Indian students due to its world-ranking universities, academic culture, and potential careers. However, the price of overseas studies is often beyond the means of many. To fill this financial gap, a wide array of scholarships for Indian students in the UK can sponsor undergraduate, postgraduate, and research studies. In this blog, we’ll explore various UK scholarships for Indian students for undergraduate and Master's programs, including government-funded, university-specific, and private options, as well as tips for applying and understanding the UK student visa process.

Why Study in the UK?

Choosing to study in the UK comes with a multitude of benefits:

• Globally Recognized Education: Institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London are consistently ranked among the world’s best.

• Varied Courses: A variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs is offered in areas such as science, business, arts, law, and healthcare.

• Brief Duration: The majority of Master's programs are one-year courses, while undergraduate degrees last for three years, keeping the overall costs low.

• Post-Study Work Visa: The UK Graduate Route enables students to remain on a post-study work visa for up to two years (or three for PhD students) after studies.

• Cultural Exposure: Education in the UK provides an opportunity to live in a multicultural setting and establish a global network.

 

Types of Scholarships Available

The UK provides various forms of financial assistance to international students, especially Indians. These are:

• Merit-Based Scholarships – Provided based on academic performance

• Need-Based Scholarships – For students facing financial difficulties

• Subject-Specific Scholarships – For subjects such as STEM, arts, or humanities

• Government-Funded Scholarships – Funded by the UK or Indian government

• University Scholarships – Provided directly by institutions

• Private and Trust-Based Scholarships – Provided by philanthropic bodies

Understanding the appropriate type can help you focus on the most effective UK scholarship available to international students.

 

Top Scholarships Provided by the Government

These are well-known prestigious ones that are normally fully funded to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel.

1. Chevening Scholarships

• UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office funding

• Designed for promising future global leaders for one-year Master's programs

• Pays full tuition, air travel, and a handsome living allowance

• Extremely competitive, based on leadership and academic merit

2. Commonwealth Scholarships

• For students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries such as India

• For Master's and PhD study in specific subjects

• Pays tuition, air travel, thesis grants, and personal allowance

• Suitable for students from low and middle-income group backgrounds

 

3. British Council GREAT Scholarships for Indian Students

• In partnership with participating UK universities

• Provides £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate course

• Available for Indian students seeking subjects such as science, finance, design, and more

• Every university has a few of these awards to offer

These are the perfect UK scholarships for Indian students pursuing Master's programs.

 

University-Specific Scholarships

Several of the top universities in the UK provide special scholarships for Indian students:

 

1. Rhodes Scholarship – University of Oxford

• One of the oldest and most esteemed scholarships in the world

• Fully sponsors postgraduate study at Oxford

• Pays for tuition, airfare, and a high stipend

• Emphasizes academic merit, leadership, and public service

 

2. Cambridge International Scholarships

• Awarded to exceptional PhD applicants

• Pays for the full tuition and maintenance fees

• Is open to non-UK students in several different disciplines

 

3. UCL Global Master's Scholarships

• For students from low-income families

• Provides £15,000 for a one-year full-time Master's course

• Should have received an offer from UCL before applying

 

4. University of Bristol Think Big Scholarships

• For undergraduate and postgraduate students

• Provides tuition fee waivers of between £5,000 and £20,000

• Needs applicants to prove academic excellence and personal drive

Private and Trust-Based Scholarships

These are provided by Indian or overseas organisations that sponsor higher education abroad.

 

1. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships

• Available to Indian students studying full-time Master's courses in the UK

• Provides up to USD 100,000 covering tuition, travel, and living costs

• Focus on arts, design, and specialized subjects

 

2. JN Tata Endowment Loan Scholarships

• Provides a one-time loan scholarship of ₹1 to ₹10 lakhs

• Interest-free repayment after studies

• Available for any area of higher education overseas

 

3. KC Mahindra Scholarships for Postgraduate Studies Abroad

Awards scholarships of up to ₹8 lakhs to Indian students to pursue a postgraduate degree abroad

The applicants are judged on academic merit, financial requirements, and leadership qualities

These provide an alternative source of funding for education beyond the Indian students undergraduate UK scholarships.

Application Process and Tips

This is how to ensure your scholarship application is accepted:

• Begin Early: Look for and apply for 10–12 months prior to the course commencing.

• Research Properly: Read eligibility and selection criteria carefully.

• Prepare Documents: Keep your academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and English test scores (typically IELTS) in hand.

• Customize Every Application: Customize your SOP and essays according to the specific requirements of the scholarship.

• Practice for Interviews: A personal interview is often required by many scholarships.

• Monitor Deadlines: Missing a deadline can deprive you of an opportunity.

 

UK Student Visa Process

After you gain admission and potentially a scholarship, you will require a UK student visa (Tier 4):

• Apply online through the UK government website

• Present CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from your university

• Present Proof of Funds (tuition + living expenses for up to 9 months)

• Present English Proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)

• Pay the Visa Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge

• Processing takes approximately 3 weeks, but apply early to prevent delays.

 

Free Education Opportunities

Though not completely free, several scholarships provide full funding:

• Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships pay for everything

• University-specific scholarships such as Rhodes, Gates Cambridge, and UCL Global Master's pay for most of the costs

• A combination of scholarships and part-time jobs can also assist students in keeping costs down

 

Conclusion

With the vast number of scholarships for Indian students in the UK, fulfilling your education aspirations is easier than ever. From British Council GREAT Scholarships for Indian students to fully funded government schemes and university-specific scholarships, the UK has numerous opportunities for aspiring students. Whether you wish to take a Bachelor's or Master's degree, don't get discouraged by your financial situation — begin planning, apply early, and seize the opportunity to learn at the best universities in the UK.

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

When should I start applying for scholarships UK?

 Apply at least 10–12 months ahead of the proposed course commencement date.

Is IELTS required for UK scholarships?

 Yes, the majority of UK scholarships require an IELTS or similar English language test score.

 

What is the famous scholarship in the UK?

 The Chevening Scholarship is the most prestigious and well-known scholarship in the UK.

 

Who is eligible for the Great Scholarship in the UK?

Indian students with a good academic record seeking admission to a one-year Master's degree at a participating UK university are eligible.