If you are an international student planning to pursue a master’s degree in the United Kingdom, you might already be aware of the high tuition fees and living expenses.
While the UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, the cost of studying there can be daunting.
Fortunately, there are several ways to secure full funding for your master’s program. This article will guide you on how to get full funding for your master’s degree in the UK, from scholarships to funding sources and tips on how to increase your chances of securing financial aid.
Understanding the Cost of Studying in the UK
Before diving into the strategies and options for obtaining full funding, it’s important to first understand the costs associated with studying in the UK as an international student.
Tuition Fees: International students typically pay higher tuition fees compared to UK and EU students. The fees for a master’s program can range from £10,000 to £38,000 per year, depending on the course and university.
Living Expenses: In addition to tuition fees, international students must also account for living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal costs. The average monthly living cost for an international student in the UK ranges from £1,200 to £1,500, depending on the area.
Given these high costs, it’s essential to explore all available funding options that can help reduce the financial burden.
How to Get Full Funding for Masters in the UK for International Students
Getting full funding for your master’s degree in the UK is possible with the right approach and resources. Below are some proven methods for securing financial aid:
1. Apply for Scholarships
One of the best ways to reduce the financial burden is to apply for scholarships. Many UK universities and external organizations offer scholarships specifically for international students. Scholarships can cover a portion or, in some cases, the full cost of tuition and living expenses.
Types of Scholarships Available for International Students:
University Scholarships: Most UK universities offer scholarships to international students based on merit or need. These scholarships can cover full tuition fees and sometimes even provide a stipend for living expenses. To apply, visit the financial aid section of your chosen university’s website.
Government-Funded Scholarships: The UK government offers several scholarships for international students. Some of the most well-known options include:
Chevening Scholarships: Funded by the UK government, Chevening Scholarships are available for outstanding international students from over 160 countries.
Commonwealth Scholarships: These scholarships are open to students from Commonwealth nations. The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission provides financial support for master’s and PhD degrees, including coverage for tuition fees, living costs, and airfare.
External Scholarships: In addition to university and government scholarships, many private organizations, foundations, and corporations offer funding to international students. Some popular external scholarships include:
The Fulbright Program: For US students pursuing studies in the UK.
The Rhodes Scholarship: An incredibly competitive scholarship that covers all living and educational costs at the University of Oxford.
Tips for Securing Scholarships
Start researching scholarships well in advance. Many scholarships have early deadlines, often a year before the course start date.
Tailor your application to each scholarship. Demonstrating how your goals align with the scholarship’s objectives can increase your chances.
Seek guidance from your university’s scholarship office or a mentor to refine your application.
2. Apply for University Funding
Apart from scholarships, numerous universities in the UK provide financial support for international students. This support can come in the form of grants, fellowships, or research assistantships, which can greatly lower the cost of pursuing a master’s degree. Below are some options to consider:
Research Assistantships and Fellowships: If you are pursuing a research-focused master’s degree, universities may offer funding through research assistantships. In exchange for a stipend, you may be required to assist professors with their research projects. These positions often cover tuition fees and provide a living allowance.
Teaching Assistantships: Some universities also offer teaching assistantships to postgraduate students. As a teaching assistant, you’ll assist in tutoring or grading assignments, and in return, you’ll receive a salary or fee waiver.
Departmental Grants: Many academic departments have funding available for students in specific fields. Check with the department you plan to study in to see if there are any departmental grants or financial aid packages available.
How to Find University Funding Opportunities:
Visit the university’s official website and navigate to the funding section.
Contact the admissions office or the specific department for more details on funding opportunities.
Join online forums or groups for international students to stay informed about funding opportunities.
3. Consider Student Loans
If scholarships and grants aren’t sufficient to cover all your expenses, student loans may be another option. While international students may not be eligible for UK government loans, there are loans available through private banks or lenders.
UK-Based Banks: Some UK-based banks offer loans to international students, especially if you have a UK-based guarantor. However, these loans usually require a credit check and can be difficult to obtain without a UK co-signer.
Home Country Banks: Many international students choose to apply for loans from banks or financial institutions in their home countries. These loans may offer favorable terms for students studying abroad.
International Student Loan Providers: Some specialized financial institutions provide loans to international students without requiring a UK co-signer. Examples include Prodigy Finance and MPOWER Financing, which offer loans to students from specific countries and universities
Fully Funded Scholarships for Undergraduate International Students in UK 2025
