Do UK Scholarships Cover Full Tuition?

The United Kingdom remains one of the top study destinations for international students, known for its world-class universities, diverse culture, and globally recognized degrees. But with high tuition fees and living costs, many students ask the same question. The good news is that yes, many UK scholarships do cover full tuition, and some even go further by providing living stipends, travel costs, and health insurance. From prestigious government awards like Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships to university-funded programs such as Clarendon and Gates Cambridge, the UK offers a wide range of opportunities that make studying there possible without financial stress.

However, not every scholarship covers 100% of expenses. Understanding the difference between full tuition scholarships and fully funded scholarships is crucial before applying. While some awards pay for all your university fees, others only reduce or partially cover costs, so knowing what to expect helps you plan your finances more effectively.

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What Does Full Tuition Mean in UK Scholarships?

Before applying for any scholarship in the UK, it is essential to understand what it actually covers because it does not always mean completely free education. A full tuition scholarship covers only your university tuition fees for the entire duration of your program. You’ll still need to pay for living expenses, accommodation, a visa, and travel costs. Examples of these are the University of Bristol and the University of Leeds, awards offer tuition-only scholarships. Meanwhile, fully funded scholarships go beyond tuition, covering your living allowance, flights, books, visa, and even health insurance. Examples of these are Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships. These are fully funded, meaning you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket.

In UK universities, tuition fees typically cover course teaching and supervision, access to libraries, laboratories, and online resources. Also, it covers assessments and exams as well as academic support services. However, they do not usually include accommodation or rent, meals or transportation, and health surcharges or personal expenses. So, even if your scholarship covers full tuition, you’ll still need to budget for daily living costs, which can range from £900 to £1,300 per month, depending on your location.

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Why Do Some Scholarships Cover Only Tuition?

Many UK universities offer tuition-only scholarships because they want to attract top talent without overextending their budgets. Also, living cost assistance may come from government programs or external sponsors. Students are often expected to contribute partly through part-time jobs or savings. This is why it is crucial to read the scholarship description carefully. In fact,  do not assume that full tuition means fully funded.

Not all UK scholarships are created equal. Some offer complete tuition coverage, while others cover only part of your fees or provide additional living support. Understanding these categories helps you choose the right scholarships for your financial situation and academic goals. These scholarships cover 100% of your university tuition fees, meaning you won’t pay a single pound toward your degree costs. However, you will still need to fund living expenses unless the award includes a stipend. Examples of  these scholarships in the UK:

• GREAT Scholarships – Offered in partnership with the UK government for students from selected countries.
• University of Birmingham Global Masters Scholarship – Covers full tuition for top-performing students.
• Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships – Provided by several universities (e.g., Westminster, Nottingham, Exeter) for outstanding international students.

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 Fully Funded Scholarships

Fully funded scholarships are the most sought-after because they cover everything from tuition fees to living costs, accommodation, and travel. Top Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK include

Chevening Scholarships: Funded by the UK government, covering full tuition, monthly stipends, and airfare.

Commonwealth Scholarships: For students from developing Commonwealth nations; covers tuition, living costs, and return flights.

Gates Cambridge Scholarship: For postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge; covers all expenses, including research and family allowances.

Clarendon Fund (Oxford University): Offers full tuition and a generous living stipend.

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Partial Scholarships

These provide a fixed amount or percentage discount on tuition fees, for example, 25%, 50%, or even 75% of the total cost.
They help reduce financial pressure, but do not make your study fully free.

Examples:

• University of Bristol Think Big Scholarships – Offers between £6,500 and £13,000 toward tuition.
• University of West London International Ambassador Scholarship – Partial tuition discount for exceptional applicants.

Country-Specific and Program-Based Scholarships

Some scholarships are funded by foreign governments or organizations for citizens of specific countries studying in the UK.
Examples include:

• Commonwealth Shared Scholarships (for developing nations)
• British Council Women in STEM Scholarships
• Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships (for students from selected countries)

These can be full, partial, or fully funded, depending on the partnership terms.

Top UK Universities Offering Full Tuition Scholarships

While many government-funded programs help international students study in the UK for free, several top universities also offer full tuition scholarships from their own funds or through partnerships. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and global potential, giving students from all backgrounds a chance to study without worrying about tuition costs. Below are the leading UK universities where international students can earn full tuition coverage and sometimes even fully funded support.

• 1. University of Oxford

Scholarships: Clarendon Fund, Rhodes Scholarship, Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarship
This coverage includes full tuition plus a living stipend. Oxford offers multiple scholarships that cover 100% of tuition fees for international students. The Clarendon Fund automatically considers all applicants for graduate degrees, while the Rhodes and Weidenfeld-Hoffmann target exceptional global leaders. It is best for graduate students pursuing master’s or PhDs with strong academic backgrounds.

• University of Cambridge

Scholarships: Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Cambridge Trust Scholarships
The University of Cambridge scholarship covers full tuition, plus a living allowance and travel. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers everything: tuition, housing, and travel. The Cambridge Trust also offers hundreds of merit-based awards each year for undergraduates and postgraduates. It is best for students with outstanding research potential or leadership achievements.

• University of Edinburgh

Scholarship: Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships, Glenmore Medical Online Scholarship
Coverage: Full tuition or Partial (depending on program)
The University of Edinburgh provides full tuition coverage for high-achieving international PhD candidates and medical students. This is best for students in medical, public health, and research-based programs.

• University of Westminster

Scholarship: Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for International Students
Coverage: Full tuition (occasionally includes a stipend)
This award is highly competitive and designed for students from developing countries with excellent academic and leadership potential. It is suitable for undergraduate and master’s students who demonstrate community impact.

• University of Nottingham

Scholarship: Developing Solutions Scholarship
Coverage: Full or 50% tuition.
This program supports students from Africa, India, and selected Commonwealth nations who want to contribute to their home country’s development. This scholarship is best for postgraduate students from developing regions focused on sustainable development.

• University of Bristol

Scholarship: Think Big Scholarship
Coverage: Full or Partial tuition
The Think Big program offers awards of up to £26,000, enough to fully cover tuition for many programs. The scholarship is best for undergraduate and postgraduate students with strong academic results.

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Can Undergraduate Students Get Full Tuition Scholarships in the UK?

When most people think of UK scholarships, they often imagine postgraduate programs like Chevening or Commonwealth. But what about undergraduate students? Can they get full tuition scholarships, too? The answer is yes, although such opportunities are rarer and more competitive than postgraduate ones. Still, several UK universities offer full scholarship awards to help talented undergraduates study without financial burden.

• University of Westminster – Undergraduate Full Scholarships

This scholarship covers full tuition fees for the entire degree. This scholarship targets students from developing countries who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. Sometimes includes a small living allowance or housing support. Excellent academic performance and a strong personal statement are important for eligibility.

• University of Bristol – Think Big Undergraduate Scholarships

The University of Bristol scholarship covers up to £26,000 toward tuition fees (can cover full tuition for some courses). It is awarded to high-achieving international students enrolling in undergraduate programs. The scholarship is best for students in humanities, business, and engineering programs. Note that living costs are not covered.

• University of Edinburgh Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarships

This scholarship covers full or partial tuition. It is offered to international students based on academic merit. Although some awards are partial, a few exceptional candidates receive full tuition coverage. The eligibility for this is non-EU international students with top academic grades.

• University of Birmingham – Outstanding Achievement Scholarships

This scholarship covers a partial to full tuition discount. It is awarded to international students from specific regions (e.g., Africa, India, ASEAN countries). In partnership with local organizations, these scholarships sometimes cover the entire tuition for selected students.

• University of Sussex – Chancellor’s International Scholarships

The University of Sussex scholarship covers a full tuition waiver. It is a highly competitive scholarship for students with exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential. This scholarship includes a full tuition fee waiver for the duration of study (does not include living costs).

• University College London (UCL) Global Undergraduate Scholarships

This scholarship covers full tuition + Living allowance (for some recipients. UCL offers one of the most generous undergraduate awards in the UK, aimed at students from low-income backgrounds. Some recipients receive complete funding, including stipends.

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Can Master’s Students Get Full Tuition or Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK?

If you are planning to pursue a Master’s degree in the UK, you are in luck; this is the most common level where scholarships do cover full tuition (and often much more). Many UK universities and government programs offer fully funded scholarships for master’s students that include tuition fees, living stipends, airfare, and research support.

• Chevening Scholarship

Coverage: Full tuition + Living stipend + Airfare + Visa costs. The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government, is designed specifically for one-year Master’s programs. It is a fully funded award, meaning everything from your university fees to travel expenses is covered. From a Chevening-eligible country. You need a minimum of two years’ work experience. Leadership and community impact. Complete financial freedom and a powerful professional network.

• Commonwealth Shared and Master’s Scholarships

This scholarship covers full tuition, a monthly stipend + travel, and + research grants. These scholarships are open to students from developing Commonwealth nations who cannot afford UK study otherwise.  They are available for both Master’s and PhD programs. This scholarship focuses on academic excellence and social development.

• Gates Cambridge Scholarship

The Gates Cambridge scholarship covers full tuition + maintenance allowance, + travel costs. One of the most prestigious postgraduate scholarships in the world, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It supports talented students pursuing any full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge. Covers 100% of tuition and provides generous stipends for living and research.

• Clarendon Fund (University of Oxford)

This scholarship covers full tuition + Annual living stipend (~£17,000). This is awarded automatically to top-performing graduate students across all departments at Oxford. No separate application is required. Just apply for a Master’s or PhD program by the deadline. Covers both tuition and living, making it a truly fully funded scholarship.

• GREAT Scholarships

The Great Scholarship covers full or partial tuition (varies by university and country). It is jointly funded by the UK Government and participating universities. GREAT Scholarships offer postgraduate students a chance to study with significant tuition coverage and, in some cases, full tuition.

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 Some University-Specific Master’s Scholarships

Several UK universities offer their own fully funded or full-tuition scholarships for postgraduate students:

University	Scholarship Name	Coverage
University of Edinburgh	Edinburgh Global Scholarships	Full tuition + Stipend
University of Nottingham	Developing Solutions Scholarship	Full or 50% tuition
University of Sussex	Chancellor’s International Scholarship	Full tuition
Imperial College London	President’s PhD/Master’s Scholarship	Full tuition + Stipend

Top UK Universities Offering Full Tuition Scholarships for International Students (2025)

If you are wondering which UK universities actually offer scholarships that cover full tuition, the answer is quite a few.
The UK’s leading universities are committed to attracting top global talent, and many now provide full tuition or fully funded scholarships across undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs. Below are the top UK universities known for generous financial aid packages that make studying in the UK accessible and sometimes completely free.

• University of Oxford

Some popular scholarships from the University of Oxford are the Clarendon Fund, the Rhodes Scholarship, Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships. This scholarship covers full tuition + living stipend. Oxford is one of the most scholarship-friendly universities for international students. The Clarendon Fund automatically considers all graduate applicants, while Rhodes and Weidenfeld-Hoffmann are among the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in the world. This scholarship is great because it covers all fees and living costs for global academic excellence.

• University of Cambridge

Some popular scholarships from this University are the Gates Cambridge, Cambridge Trust, and Jardine Scholarship. This scholarship covers full tuition + living allowance + travel + family support. Cambridge offers some of the most comprehensive scholarship packages in the UK. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is especially known for covering all educational and living expenses for international students pursuing postgraduate degrees. This is a great, fully funded program and a strong research infrastructure.

• Imperial College London

Some popular scholarships from Imperial College are the President’s PhD Scholarships and Imperial Marshall Scholarships. This covers full tuition + stipend + research allowance. A powerhouse for STEM and technology programs, Imperial provides generous full funding to outstanding international researchers.

• University College London (UCL)

Some popular scholarships are the UCL Global Master’s Scholarship and, Denys Holland Scholarship. This scholarship covers full or partial tuition + maintenance allowance. UCL’s Global Masters Scholarship specifically targets international students from low-income backgrounds, making postgraduate education fully accessible.

• University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh offers popular scholarships like the Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship, the Edinburgh Global Masters Scholarship. This scholarship covers full tuition + living stipend (for some awards). Known for supporting students from developing countries, Edinburgh provides a range of awards that cover full tuition at both Master’s and PhD levels.

• University of Warwick

The University of Warwick offers popular scholarships like the Chancellor’s International Scholarship. This scholarship covers full tuition + maintenance allowance (~£19,000/year). One of the UK’s most competitive scholarships for international PhD students, offering complete financial support for three to four years.

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Are UK Scholarships Really Worth It for International Students?

Do UK scholarships cover full tuition? Yes absolutely. In fact, many of them go beyond tuition, offering living stipends, airfare, visa support, and even family allowances. For international students, these scholarships are more than just financial aid; they’re life-changing opportunities. They open doors to study at world-renowned universities, gain global exposure, and join professional networks that can shape entire careers.

Why UK Scholarships Are Worth It

UK universities consistently rank among the best in the world. Institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial produce global leaders in every field. Also, many scholarships (like Chevening and Commonwealth) offer not just funding, but a lifetime of connections with alumni in government, business, and academia worldwide. Furthermore, a UK degree significantly boosts employability. Employers recognize the quality, research focus, and practical experience that UK programs offer. Studying in the UK is not just about academics; it’s about experiencing diversity, history, and innovation in one of the world’s most vibrant educational hubs. With a full tuition or fully funded scholarship, you can focus on your studies and future, not on financial stress.

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