You Shocked?? ALL our articles ranks so high on Google to drive fast traffic, sales, rich clients and passive revenue for us and other businesses.. Contact Us For Yours
the article 👇 starts now
Getting fully funded UK scholarships is the dream ticket for thousands of students worldwide..
But the real truth is that many students still miss out on them simply because they don’t know where or how to start.
Imagine having the grades, the ambition, and the passion, but being stuck in your home country just because tuition and living costs in the UK are way above your budget.
However, a shocking irony is that every year, top universities in the UK give out millions of pounds in scholarship funding, and a chunk of it goes UNUSED because students from developing countries never even apply.
That’s why if you’ve ever dreamed of studying in one of the world’s top-ranked institutions without paying a dime, this post is exactly what you need.
Whether you’re targeting UK scholarships for international students, looking to study in the UK for free, or searching for postgraduate scholarships in the UK that don’t require you to take IELTS,.
You’re about to discover all the insider info.
Yes, there are scholarships in the UK without IELTS and real funding opportunities that cover tuition, accommodation, flights, and even monthly stipends.
So, at the end of this post, you’ll not only discover the best UK scholarships for international students…
You’ll also get perfect answers to:
- Table of Contents show
How to get a 100% scholarship in the UK?
Which scholarship is fully-funded in the UK without IELTS?
Which university in the UK provides a fully funded scholarship?
Which scholarship portal is the best?
How much GPA is required for a scholarship in the UK?
WHAT ARE FULLY FUNDED UK SCHOLARSHIPS?
Fully funded UK scholarships are financial awards that cover all major expenses for international students pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom.
Unlike partial scholarships, which might only cover tuition or a portion of fees, fully funded scholarships ensure you don’t have to worry about tuition, accommodation, or even travel costs.
These scholarships are often sponsored by the UK government, universities, or organizations like the British Council and are designed to attract talented students from around the world.
This also includes those seeking UK scholarships for Nigerian students or scholarships in UK without IELTS requirements.
These awards are highly competitive, targeting students with exceptional academic records, leadership potential, or specific skills in fields like science, technology, or the arts.
Some scholarships are even tailored to specific groups, such as women in STEM or students from developing countries, making them accessible to a diverse range of applicants.
Why would winning one of these scholarships be a game-changer for your future?
Let’s explore the incredible benefits next.
Top Benefits of Winning a Fully Funded Scholarship in the UK
Winning a fully funded UK scholarship is more than just a free ride
It’s a life transforming experience.
First and foremost, these scholarships cover 100% of your tuition fees, which can be a hefty sum for international students at top UK universities like Oxford,
Cambridge, or Imperial College London. For instance, programs like the Gates Cambridge Scholarship provide full tuition, a £17,500 annual stipend, and even family allowances for eligible students.
Beyond tuition, fully funded masters scholarships UK often include a living allowance, covering accommodation, food, and daily expenses.
This means you can focus on your studies without worrying about part-time jobs or loans.
Scholarships like Chevening also provide economy-class airfare to and from the UK, ensuring that even travel costs don’t stand in your way.
For Nigerian students or others from developing countries, this financial relief is crucial, as it eliminates barriers to accessing world-class education.
Another major perk is the prestige.
Being a Chevening or Commonwealth scholar puts you in a global network of leaders and innovators, boosting your career prospects.
You’ll also gain access to exclusive events, mentorship programs, and professional development opportunities.
Plus, studying in the UK exposes you to a multicultural environment, helping you build skills and connections that are invaluable for migrating without a job offer or pursuing international careers.
Curious about which scholarships offer these incredible benefits?
Let’s break down the top five fully funded UK scholarships for international students.
5 Top Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK for International Students
When it comes to fully funded UK scholarships, a few stand out for their generosity and prestige.
Here are the top five options for international students, including those seeking UK scholarships for Nigerian students or scholarships in UK without IELTS:
1. Chevening Scholarships
Funded by the UK government, Chevening is one of the most prestigious fully funded masters scholarships UK.
It covers tuition, a monthly living allowance, airfare, and additional grants for essential expenses.
Open to students from Chevening-eligible countries (including Nigeria), it targets future leaders with at least two years of work experience and a strong academic background.
Applications open on August 5, 2025, so mark your calendar
2. Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Offered by the University of Cambridge, this scholarship is a dream for postgraduate students.
It funds masters and PhD studies, covering full tuition, a £17,500 stipend, health insurance, and academic development grants up to £2,000.
Nigerian students with outstanding academic records are encouraged to apply, as over 80 scholarships are awarded annually to students from over 100 countries.
2 Business Ebooks to Sell More in Your Business
3. Commonwealth Scholarships
Aimed at students from developing Commonwealth countries like Nigeria, these scholarships fund masters and PhD programs.
They cover tuition, airfare, and a living allowance, with a focus on fields that contribute to sustainable development.
No specific IELTS requirement is mentioned, making it a great option for those seeking scholarships in UK without IELTS.
4. Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford
These fully funded scholarships are available for postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford.
They cover tuition, a £19,800 stipend, accommodation, and travel costs.
The Rhodes West Africa Scholarship is particularly relevant for Nigerian students, with applications due by July 31, 2025.
5. GREAT Scholarships
Offered in partnership with the British Council, GREAT Scholarships provide £10,000 toward tuition fees for one-year postgraduate courses.
Available to students from Nigeria and other countries, they cover a wide range of subjects at over 70 UK universities.
Application deadlines vary by institution, so check university websites early.
These scholarships are your ticket to study in UK free, but what do you need to apply?
Let’s look at the essential documents next.
Documents Needed for UK Scholarship Applications
Applying for fully funded UK scholarships requires careful preparation, as missing or incomplete documents can sink your chances.
Here’s a rundown of the typical documents you’ll need, whether you’re applying for undergraduate scholarships in UK, postgraduate scholarships in UK, or PhD scholarships in UK:
Academic Transcripts and Certificates
You’ll need certified copies of your high school or undergraduate degree certificates, depending on the program.
For example, Chevening requires a minimum 2:1 degree or equivalent, while Gates Cambridge looks for outstanding academic performance.
Proof of English Proficiency:
Many scholarships, like Chevening, require good spoken and written English, often demonstrated through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
However, some programs, such as Commonwealth Scholarships, may not explicitly require IELTS, especially if your prior education was in English, making them ideal for scholarships in UK without IELTS.
Letters of Recommendation
Most scholarships ask for two to three letters from professors, employers, or mentors who can vouch for your academic or leadership abilities.
For instance, Commonwealth Scholarships require two references, which should be tailored to highlight your fit for the program.
Personal Statement or Essay:
A compelling personal statement is crucial. It should outline your academic goals, leadership qualities, and why you’re a perfect fit for the scholarship.
Chevening, for example, emphasizes leadership and networking skills in its essays.
Passport Copy:
A scanned copy of your passport is often required to verify your identity and citizenship, especially for scholarships targeting specific countries like Nigeria.
Admission Letter:
Some scholarships, like GREAT Scholarships, require you to have a conditional or unconditional offer from a UK university before applying.
Pro tip: Make sure to use reliable international payment gateways like PayPal or bank transfers to pay any application fees securely, and double-check deadlines on university or scholarship websites.
Ready to apply, but wondering if you qualify?
Let’s dive into eligibility next.
Who Is Eligible for Fully Funded UK Scholarships?
Eligibility for fully funded UK scholarships varies by program, but most share common criteria designed to identify top talent.
Generally, these scholarships are open to international students, including those seeking UK scholarships for Nigerian students,.
However, specific requirements depend on the scholarship’s focus, such as undergraduate scholarships in UK, postgraduate scholarships in UK, or PhD scholarships in UK.
Academic Excellence:
A strong academic record is non-negotiable.
For example, Chevening requires a minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree, while Gates Cambridge looks for a GPA around 3.5 or higher.
Rhodes Scholarships demand a first-class degree or equivalent.
Citizenship:
Many scholarships target specific countries.
Commonwealth Scholarships are for citizens of developing Commonwealth nations like Nigeria, while GREAT Scholarships are available to students from 18 countries, including Nigeria, India, and Pakistan.
Leadership and Impact:
Scholarships like Chevening and Rhodes prioritize candidates with leadership potential and a commitment to making a difference in their home countries.
You’ll need to demonstrate this through work experience, volunteer work, or community involvement.
Program-Specific Requirements:
Some scholarships have unique criteria.
For instance, Commonwealth Scholarships prioritize fields relevant to sustainable development, while GREAT Scholarships focus on one-year postgraduate courses.
Scholarships in UK without IELTS may waive English tests if you’ve studied in English before.
Financial Need:
Some scholarships, like the UCL Global Masters Scholarship, prioritize students from lower-income backgrounds, while others, like Chevening, require you to be self-funded (not sponsored by other entities).
Living in the UK can be expensive, but scholarships often make it possible to study in some of the most affordable cities to live, like Manchester or Birmingham.
Curious about what could derail your application?
Let’s uncover the common mistakes you must avoid.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for UK Scholarships
Applying for fully funded UK scholarships is a high-stakes process, and small errors can cost you big.
Here are the most common mistakes to steer clear of when chasing scholarships for international students:
- Missing Deadlines: Scholarship deadlines are strict. For example, Rhodes Scholarship applications close on July 31, 2025, and GREAT Scholarships have varying deadlines by university. Set reminders and apply early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Incomplete Applications: Submitting missing transcripts, references, or essays is a surefire way to get rejected. Double-check requirements, like the two references needed for Commonwealth Scholarships or the offer letter for GREAT Scholarships.
- Generic Personal Statements: A one-size-fits-all essay won’t cut it. Tailor your personal statement to each scholarship, highlighting why you’re a perfect fit. For Chevening, emphasize leadership; for Gates Cambridge, focus on academic excellence and global impact.
- Ignoring Eligibility Criteria: Applying without meeting requirements wastes time. If you don’t have a 2:1 degree, Chevening isn’t for you. If you’re not from a Commonwealth country, skip Commonwealth Scholarships.
- Poor English Proficiency: Even for scholarships in UK without IELTS, you need to prove English skills through prior education or other means. Weak language skills can hurt your chances, so practice clear, concise writing.
- Not Researching Universities: Some scholarships, like GREAT Scholarships, are tied to specific universities. Research free tuition universities in the UK or programs that align with your goals to strengthen your application.
Avoiding these pitfalls can set you apart from the competition.
For students from Africa, combining these scholarships with easier work visa requirements post-graduation can even pave the way for migrating without a job offer.
Want to take your application to the next level?
Check out resources like the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) or university websites for more tips.
Best Fully Funded UK Scholarships – FAQs
Below are some popular questions and their respective answers in regards to getting fully funded scholarships in the UK…
What are fully funded scholarships?
These are scholarships that cover everything such as tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and sometimes even extras like health insurance or books. Basically, they let you study in the UK without stressing about money.
How to get a 100% scholarship in the UK?
To score a 100% scholarship, you’ll need a killer application: think strong grades (usually a GPA of 3.5 or higher), a solid personal statement, and proof of leadership or extracurricular awesomeness. Apply early, tailor your application to the scholarship’s goals, and check out big ones like Chevening or Commonwealth Scholarships.
Which scholarship is fully-funded in the UK without IELTS?
Some scholarships, like the British Council GREAT Scholarships or certain university-specific ones, don’t require IELTS if you can prove English proficiency another way like a certificate from your school saying you studied in English or other tests like TOEFL. The University of Edinburgh and Oxford have options like this too.
Which university in the UK provides a fully funded scholarship?
Top universities like Oxford (Rhodes, Clarendon), Cambridge (Gates Cambridge), and Edinburgh (Mastercard Foundation) offer fully funded scholarships. Others like Bristol (Think Big) and Southampton also have great options for international students.
Which scholarship portal is the best?
There’s no single “best” portal, but solid ones include the British Council’s Study UK website for GREAT Scholarships, Chevening’s official site, and UCAS for a broad overview. Scholars4Dev and Scholarship Roar are also great for listing multiple options. Check university websites directly for their specific scholarships.
How much GPA is required for a scholarship in the UK?
Most scholarships want a strong academic record, typically a GPA of 3.5 to 3.7 (or a first-class/second-class honours degree). Some, like Rhodes or Gates Cambridge, might expect closer to 3.9. Always check the specific scholarship’s requirements.
Do I need work experience for UK scholarships?
Amazing wall arts for your space, See More..
Some, like Chevening, require at least two years of work experience. Others, like Gates Cambridge or Rhodes, focus more on academic excellence and leadership potential. Always read the fine print on the scholarship’s website.
Can undergrads get fully funded scholarships?
They’re rarer for undergrads, but options like the University of Sheffield’s International Scholarships (£2,000–£2,500/year) or Nottingham’s regional excellence awards exist. Most fully funded ones target master’s or PhD students.
Are there scholarships for specific subjects?
Oh yes! For example: GREAT Scholarships often cover specific fields like STEM or creative industries. Commonwealth Scholarships support various fields, especially for PhD research. Some universities offer subject-specific awards, like engineering or medicine scholarships.
Best Fully Funded UK Scholarships – CONCLUSION
In conclusion, fully funded UK scholarships are more than just academic opportunities
They’re life-changing doors to global exposure, top-tier education, and a better future without the burden of tuition fees.
If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling abroad to study in the UK free,
Then now’s the time to stop dreaming and start applying.
The UK keeps proving itself as one of the best places for international students seeking quality education without financial pressure.
And if you’re also considering alternatives beyond the UK, remember that you can equally study in USA from Nigeria through various funding schemes or even aim higher and apply for a US green card through legal routes designed for skilled talents and academic achievers.
So don’t limit your options.
Whether it’s through scholarship routes or immigration pathways, there are multiple ways to secure your future.
Start applying from today, because the opportunity to change your life is literally one application away.
Do you have any questions and contributions, kindly leave them using the comments section below
👋🏽 Ani David right here!!!
If you would love us to write a promotional review about your business; write articles for your website; or even design a new and beautiful website for your business… Check out the Digital Services, we provide for businesses and companies...
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This post is not an endorsement of any platform or program mentioned. We are not affiliated with any third-party brand discussed here. Your decisions are solely your responsibility. See our full disclaimer here for important legal and content information
