Planning to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom but overwhelmed by the costs? Don’t worry — there are multiple scholarships for college students specifically for Indian applicants that can cover full tuition, living expenses, and even airfare.
From world-renowned opportunities like the Rhodes Scholarship to fully-funded government programs like the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship and modern initiatives such as the Brunel Global Future Award, the UK is welcoming thousands of Indian students every year with financial aid and academic support.
In this blog, discover the top scholarships for Indian students to study in the UK for the 2025–26 intake, along with eligibility, deadlines, and application links.
🎓 1. Rhodes Scholarship (University of Oxford)
- Offered By: Rhodes Trust
- Level: Master’s and 2nd BA degrees at Oxford
- Eligibility:
- Indian citizen
- Aged between 19 and 25 (as of Oct 1, 2025)
- Strong academic record and leadership background
- Award Includes:
- Full tuition at Oxford
- Living stipend (£18,000+ annually)
- Airfare to and from the UK
- Visa and health insurance
- Apply At: www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk
- Deadline: August 2025 (tentative)
🏛️ One of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships in the world, the Rhodes opens doors to a lifetime of global influence.
🌐 2. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship (Fully Funded)
- Offered By: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
- Level: Master’s at UK universities
- Eligibility:
- Indian citizen from a low-income background
- First-class UG degree
- Admission in eligible programs focused on development goals
- Award Includes:
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend (£1,347+ per month)
- Airfare and thesis grants
- Apply At: cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk
- Deadline: Expected in October 2025
✅ Ideal for students pursuing subjects in climate, public health, technology, or development.
🏫 3. Brunel University London – Global Future Scholarships
- Offered By: Brunel University
- Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate
- Eligibility:
- Indian students with offer letter from Brunel
- Academic excellence and strong SOP
- Award: Up to £6,000 tuition fee waiver
- Apply At: brunel.ac.uk
- Deadline: July 2025 (UG), August 2025 (PG)
🎯 A great option for students applying to business, law, design, and engineering programs in the UK.
📖 4. GREAT Scholarships – India (UK Government + British Universities)
- Offered By: British Council + UK universities
- Level: Postgraduate
- Eligibility:
- Indian students with UG degree
- Admission in a participating university
- Award: £10,000 towards tuition
- Apply At: study-uk.britishcouncil.org
- Deadline: University-specific (mostly June–August 2025)
🎓 Over 25+ UK universities offer this scholarship to Indian students across various disciplines.
🔬 5. Chevening Scholarships
- Offered By: UK Government
- Level: Master’s (any subject at any UK university)
- Eligibility:
- Indian citizenship
- At least 2 years of work experience
- Admission in a UK master’s course
- Award:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Airfare, visa costs, arrival allowance
- Apply At: www.chevening.org
- Deadline: November 2025 (for 2026 intake)
🌍 One of the most recognized leadership scholarships for future changemakers.
🧠 6. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships
- Offered By: Charles Wallace India Trust
- Level: PG (arts, heritage conservation, humanities)
- Eligibility:
- Indian student with UG/PG in arts/humanities
- Age 25–38 years
- Award: Tuition + living expenses
- Apply At: britishcouncil.in
- Deadline: November 2025
🎨 Best suited for students in creative fields and heritage studies.
📋 Common Documents Required
- Valid passport
- UG/PG transcripts and mark sheets
- Offer letter from a UK university
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Recommendation Letters
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) unless waived
- Financial documents (if need-based)
- Resume or CV
✅ Pro Tip
Many UK universities waive IELTS if you studied in an English-medium school or submit a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter. Always check with your chosen university.
📌 Final Thoughts
The UK remains one of the top study destinations for Indian students — and thanks to these generous scholarships for college students, your financial worries don’t have to stand in the way.
From Rhodes and Commonwealth Master’s to newer programs like Brunel Future Awards, there’s something for everyone — whether you’re a techie, artist, researcher, or entrepreneur.
Start early, research well, and apply smartly. The 2025–26 session could be your gateway to the UK’s world-class education system.
