Postgraduate (one-year taught Master's programmes)Partial funding: Each scholarship covers £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year taught postgraduate course.

GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students

The GREAT Scholarships offer students from 19 countries the opportunity to have £10,000 towards their tuition fees for a wide range of one-year taught postgraduate courses in the UK. This program is a joint initiative by the UK Government and the British Council, aiming to support international students pursuing Master's degrees at 71 participating UK universities. Over 200 scholarships are available for the 2025/2026 academic year. Eligibility typically requires an undergraduate degree, motivation, interest in the subject area, and meeting English language requirements, alongside being a citizen of one of the eligible countries. Application is made directly through the participating universities, with deadlines generally spanning April to June 2026. Applicants should consult the official website for detailed, institution-specific information.

Provider: Scholars4Dev (Africa)
Host country: United Kingdom
Deadline: The deadline to apply for a GREAT Scholarship varies according to each institution but generally falls between April and June 2026. Applicants must check the specific deadlines on the scholarship webpages of their chosen participating universities.

Official source

Eligibility & requirements at a glance

GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students is open to African students applying to study in United Kingdom at the Postgraduate (one-year taught Master's programmes) level, with partial funding: each scholarship covers £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year taught postgraduate course. funding. Below is a quick summary of who can apply, what's covered, and the key dates — full details are further down the page.

Who can apply: Postgraduate (one-year taught Master's programmes) · applicants for United Kingdom
Funding: Partial funding: Each scholarship covers £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year taught postgraduate course.
Study level: Postgraduate (one-year taught Master's programmes)
Deadline: The deadline to apply for a GREAT Scholarship varies according to each institution but generally falls between April and June 2026. Applicants must check the specific deadlines on the scholarship webpages of their chosen participating universities.

Key eligibility criteria

* **Citizenship:** Applicants must be from one of the following countries: Bangladesh, China, Egypt, France, Ghana, Greece, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, or Vietnam.
* **Academic Qualification:** Must possess an undergraduate degree.
* **Motivation:** Must be motivated and have a strong interest in the proposed subject area.
* **Language Proficiency:** Must meet the English language requirement of the UK Higher Education Institution (HEI).

See full eligibility criteria ↓

About the GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students (2026)

# GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students Brief ## Overview The GREAT Scholarships offer an exceptional opportunity for ambitious international students from 19 participating countries to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom. This prestigious scholarship program, a joint initiative by the UK Government and the British Council, aims to support academic excellence and cultural exchange. Over 200 scholarships will be awarded for the 2025/2026 academic year, providing significant financial assistance towards tuition fees for a wide array of one-year taught Master's programmes across 71 universities throughout England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Students interested in advancing their knowledge and career in a diverse and globally recognized academic environment should consider this valuable opportunity. ## Benefits Each successful GREAT Scholar will receive £10,000 towards their tuition fees for a one-year taught postgraduate course. This substantial financial contribution significantly reduces the cost of studying in the UK, making world-class education more accessible to international students. Beyond the financial support, the scholarship offers the invaluable experience of studying at a renowned UK university, fostering academic and personal growth, and providing access to exceptional faculty, resources, and networks. The experience of living and learning in the UK also offers a unique opportunity for cultural immersion and international networking. ## Eligibility To be considered for a GREAT Scholarship, applicants must be citizens of one of the participating countries: Bangladesh, China, Egypt, France, Ghana, Greece, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, or Vietnam. Furthermore, candidates must possess an undergraduate degree, demonstrate strong motivation, and show a keen interest in their chosen subject area. Meeting the English language proficiency requirements of the specific UK Higher Education Institution (HEI) is also mandatory. It is crucial to note that each participating country may have additional, specific eligibility criteria, which applicants must review on the official country pages of the scholarship website. ## Required Documents The official page text does not explicitly list required documents for the GREAT Scholarships. However, prospective applicants should anticipate needing a range of standard application materials for postgraduate studies in the UK. These typically include, but are not limited to, academic transcripts, degree certificates, a personal statement or statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores). As specific requirements can vary between universities and programmes, applicants are strongly advised to check the individual university's scholarship webpage for a comprehensive list of necessary documents. ## How to Apply The application process for the GREAT Scholarships requires a direct approach to the participating universities. Interested students must first visit the official GREAT Scholarships website to identify the participating universities and available programmes. Subsequently, applicants need to navigate to the specific university's scholarship webpage to find detailed information and application instructions. Applications for individual scholarships must be submitted according to the guidelines provided on each university's website. It is critical to follow these instructions precisely and to adhere to the university's specific application deadlines. The official scholarship website (link provided below) serves as the primary resource for detailed application guidance. ## Key Dates The application deadlines for the GREAT Scholarships are not uniform and vary by institution. Generally, deadlines for the 2025/2026 academic year fall between April and June 2026. Aspiring applicants should mark these months as a crucial period for submissions. As the exact dates are determined by each participating university, it is imperative to consult the respective university's scholarship webpage for the precise deadline relevant to your chosen programme and institution. The course start date for successful applicants is typically September 2026. ## Selection Criteria The official scholarship information does not detail a specific universal set of selection criteria beyond general eligibility. However, given the competitive nature of such prestigious scholarships, successful candidates are likely to demonstrate academic excellence, strong motivation, and a clear understanding of their chosen field of study. Factors such as leadership potential, extracurricular activities, and alignment with the values and objectives of the GREAT Scholarships program may also be considered. Applicants should aim to present a compelling application that highlights their achievements, aspirations, and suitability for postgraduate study in the UK. Demonstrated interest in the proposed subject area and a strong academic record will be key. ## Tips * **Start Early:** Research participating universities and programmes well in advance of the application period. * **Tailor Your Application:** Customize your application materials, especially your personal statement, to each specific university and programme. * **Meet English Language Requirements:** Ensure you meet the English language proficiency requirements of your target universities. * **Check Specific Country Criteria:** Be aware that each country has its specific eligibility criteria. Verify these on the official website. * **Verify Deadlines:** Since deadlines vary by institution, meticulously check and adhere to the specific deadlines of the universities you are applying to. * **Highlight Your Motivation:** Clearly articulate your academic and career goals and why you are passionate about your chosen field. * **Proofread Thoroughly:** Ensure all application documents are free of errors and presented professionally. ## Official Source For comprehensive and up-to-date information regarding the GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students, please refer to the official scholarship website: Official Scholarship Website: [https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships](https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships)

GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students eligibility for United Kingdom applicants

Always cross-check eligibility against the sponsor's official site before applying — sponsor rules can change between intakes.

* **Citizenship:** Applicants must be from one of the following countries: Bangladesh, China, Egypt, France, Ghana, Greece, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, or Vietnam.
* **Academic Qualification:** Must possess an undergraduate degree.
* **Motivation:** Must be motivated and have a strong interest in the proposed subject area.
* **Language Proficiency:** Must meet the English language requirement of the UK Higher Education Institution (HEI).
* **Country-Specific Criteria:** Each participating country has its own specific eligibility criteria, which can be found on the country pages of the official website.

Documents required for the GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students application

A planning baseline drawn from how 90%+ of African scholarship sponsors structure their checklist. The sponsor's portal is the source of truth for any single application.

Valid international passport (bio page scan)
Most recent academic transcripts (sealed or e-verified copies)
Curriculum vitae / résumé (1–2 pages, reverse-chronological)
Personal statement or motivation letter (500–1,000 words, tailored to the sponsor)
Two to three reference letters (academic for students, professional for working applicants)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo) — Medium-of-Instruction letter may substitute for Anglophone-Africa graduates
Passport-sized photograph meeting ICAO biometric standards
Country-of-origin proof (national ID or birth certificate) — required by many Africa-focused funders

How to apply for the GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students 2026

A practical, sponsor-agnostic sequence used by >95% of international scholarship applicants. Adapt to the sponsor's specific portal — the order rarely changes.

1
Confirm eligibility on the official site
Open https://www.scholars4dev.com/28045/great-scholarships-in-uk-for-international-students/ and verify the sponsor's stated criteria match your profile — currently: "* **Citizenship:** Applicants must be from one of the following countries: Bangladesh, China, Egypt, France, Ghana, Greece, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, or…". Sponsor rules change between intakes, so always confirm against the live call.
2
Secure a study place or admission offer
Apply to the host UK university first via UCAS (undergraduate) or the postgraduate portal. Most UK scholarship sponsors will not assess your funding application without a conditional offer letter.
3
Sit required tests and gather documents
Book IELTS Academic for UKVI (target 6.5+ for UG/taught Master's, 7.0+ for research). Request sealed PDF transcripts, brief 2–3 referees in writing, and prepare your passport bio page at high resolution.
4
Draft your essays and statements
Write a 500–1,000-word personal statement and any additional essays the sponsor specifies. Anchor each essay in concrete examples and tie your goals back to the sponsor's mission.
5
Complete the online application
Create an account on https://www.scholars4dev.com/28045/great-scholarships-in-uk-for-international-students/, fill in every field, and upload the required documents in the formats specified (PDF, max file size, single-file vs multi-file). Save progress frequently — most portals time out after 30–60 minutes.
6
Submit by The deadline to apply for a GREAT Scholarship varies according to each institution but generally falls between April and June 2026. Applicants must check the specific deadlines on the scholarship webpages of their chosen participating universities. (aim 7 days early)
Sponsor portals routinely slow or fail in the final 24 hours. Submit early, download the confirmation receipt, and screenshot the submission timestamp. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.
7
Prepare for shortlist interviews
If shortlisted, Scholars4Dev (Africa) will contact you within 4–12 weeks. Re-read your essays, rehearse 3–5 likely questions out loud, and confirm your time zone for any video interview.
8
Plan your UK Student visa and arrival
Once funded, accept your university place to trigger your CAS, book a UKVI-approved TB test (£80–£200), then apply for the Student visa (£524 + £776/year IHS). Budget 3–6 weeks of processing and collect your BRP within 10 days of arrival.

GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students deadline & application timeline

The sponsor has not published a fixed deadline yet. Use the milestones below as a generic 12-month plan; substitute dates once the intake window opens.

12 months out
Register for tests (IELTS/TOEFL/SAT/GRE), shortlist 3–5 universities, identify referees.
6 months out
Sit your tests, draft a personal statement, request transcripts and confirm reference letters.
3 months out
Finalise essays, upload supporting documents, complete the online application portal.
1 month out
Final review, double-check uploaded files, submit a week before the deadline to avoid portal issues.
Application deadline
Submit by 23:59 in the sponsor's stated time zone — usually local to the sponsor, not your country.

Ready to apply?

Cross-check the latest eligibility rules and deadline on the sponsor's official portal before you start your application.

Visit official site

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students?+

Applicants must be eligible African nationals applying at the Postgraduate (one-year taught Master's programmes) level, meet the academic and English-language requirements set by Scholars4Dev (Africa), and be able to relocate to United Kingdom for the duration of the programme.

Is the GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students fully funded?+

Funding model: Partial funding: Each scholarship covers £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year taught postgraduate course.. Where listed as fully funded, the award typically covers tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance and round-trip airfare. Always confirm the latest funding breakdown on the sponsor's official page.

When is the application deadline?+

The application deadline is The deadline to apply for a GREAT Scholarship varies according to each institution but generally falls between April and June 2026. Applicants must check the specific deadlines on the scholarship webpages of their chosen participating universities.. Submit at least one week early — sponsor portals frequently slow or fail in the final 24 hours, and late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.

What documents do I need to apply?+

At minimum: passport bio page, academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, two to three references, and an English-language test score (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo). Research-led Masters and PhD applications also require a research proposal and a writing sample.

How can I improve my chance of winning?+

Apply early, tailor every essay to the specific sponsor (do not recycle a generic statement), secure at least one reference who knows your work in detail, and apply to two or three additional scholarships in parallel — never rely on a single application.

What UK visa do I need for the GREAT Scholarships in UK for International Students?+

Most scholarship holders enter the UK on a Student visa (formerly Tier 4). You apply after receiving a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university, and must show proof of funds, your scholarship award letter, and a valid TB test certificate (required for most African nationals). Apply at least 3 months before your course start date.

Sources

UK Student visa

What English-language score do UK universities require?+

UK universities typically require IELTS Academic 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) for undergraduate and taught Masters, and 7.0 overall (no band below 6.5) for research degrees and competitive programmes. For the Student visa itself, you need a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as IELTS for UKVI unless your degree was taught entirely in English in a majority-English-speaking country.

Can I stay and work in the UK after my scholarship ends?+

Yes — the Graduate Route lets you stay for 2 years after completing an undergraduate or Masters degree (3 years for a PhD) to work or look for work at any skill level, with no sponsorship required. You must apply before your Student visa expires and have completed your course at a UK Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance.

Sources

Graduate visa

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