Pursuing higher studies in the UK can boost one’s profile and open up  many job opportunities in and outside the country. That said, it can be expensive to live in the UK and pursue a master’s or graduate program. Fortunately, to ensure capable, talented students get a chance to study abroad, the UK government and universities offer full or partial scholarships that can cover the tuition fees and living expenses of select candidates .

Tips to get a scholarship to study in the UK
1. Look up popular options
Scholarships are forms of monetary assistance that do not have to be repaid.

They are offered to students with proven and recognized academic excellence. Three options are open to students—university scholarships, country-specific options, and government-funded scholarships. One popular option is Chevening Scholarships—a UK government-backed scholarship granted to students pursuing a one-year master’s program. Similarly, there are Commonwealth Masters Scholarships offered to international students from developing Commonwealth countries seeking to pursue master’s or PhD. Alternatively, one could consider Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarships, which support students pursuing doctoral studies. 

To get a full scholarship from UK universities , one may have to review their specific criteria . For example, some universities may only grant scholarship awards to Indian students who want to return to their home country after their postgraduate program to improve the quality of life there.

Additionally, the extent of the financial aid and coverage may vary from one scholarship to another. One can consult an academic guidance counsellor or UK University representatives for additional information about scholarships , like eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documentation.

2. Explore other financing options
Apart from this, one can also get financial aid through grants or bursaries, a type of scholarship granted based on students’ financial backgrounds. Bursary awards do not place too much emphasis on academic performance but require students to have an overall clear track record. It is best to apply for multiple scholarships and grants to improve the chances of securing at least one.

3. Check eligibility criteria
Students must meet a few key criteria to be eligible for a full UK scholarship.

• Candidates must already have an acceptance letter from a UK institute that grants scholarships.
• Candidates should have a strong academic record and meet the minimum grade requirements set by the desired scholarship.
• It is crucial to clear standard language proficiency tests and have the minimum grade point average (GPA) required to grant a scholarship.
• Students must follow all application instructions and meet the submission deadlines. For instance, applicants may be asked to submit an essay that outlines their achievements, goals, and reasons for applying. They must ensure they upload the essay on the mentioned date. Often, nonadherence to instructions and deadlines leads to application rejection.

It is also important to note that most UK Scholarships for Indian students are only open to those pursuing full-time postgraduate/master’s or undergraduate programs at a university. 

4. Prepare required documents
Scholarship applicants must have letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or other relevant professionals. They must also demonstrate financial need. This requires candidates to give details about their family’s annual earnings and  financial background. Candidates also need to prepare and submit certified copies of their academic records, written statements, and proof of language proficiency.

5. Prepare for interviews
Some scholarships may require candidates to attend an interview, which  can help the selection committee determine the applicant’s suitability . This step also helps them verify the authenticity of the candidate’s application. So, when applying for a scholarship, it is best to be prepared for the interview. One can look up common questions and practice their answers before appearing for the interview.

6. Follow up
Students must keep track of all the scholarships they have looked into, applications they have submitted, submission deadlines, and application status. This ensures that they do not miss any important dates or selection updates. It also helps them send follow-up emails to the universities or scholarship providers asking for an update.

Things UK scholarships cover
Fully funded scholarships cover various kinds of expenses.

• Basic student expenses
• Examination costs and tuition fees for the entire duration of the course
• Visa application fees or immigration-related expenses
• Books and study materials
• Living allowance up to a limit

Some scholarships also cover economy class return airfare to the UK and health insurance or access to the UK’s healthcare.

Things to know before applying
The application process is pretty straightforward. One needs to apply to programs or courses first, then for scholarships. A little research and a thorough review of various university websites can help one find legitimate scholarships for international students. Scholarships are granted not just to those with an excellent academic record or financial needs but also to those who excel in other areas. For instance, one can find musical scholarships and industry or sports scholarships. Processing applications for all types of grants can take several weeks or months. The more popular and desirable the scholarship and the university, the more time it might take. So, it is best to apply for one as early as possible, at least a year to six months after the start of the schooling year.