The GREAT Scholarships UK program is a prestigious tuition support initiative designed to help high-achieving international students access quality postgraduate education in the United Kingdom. The scholarship provides a £10,000 reduction in tuition fees for eligible one-year master’s degree programs at participating UK universities. It is jointly funded by the British Council and UK higher education institutions, making it one of the most trusted and widely recognized funding options for international students seeking affordable study opportunities in the UK.
This guide explains the scholarship in a clear, step-by-step format, covering eligibility, benefits, fees, application procedures, timelines, and practical considerations for international applicants.
What the GREAT Scholarships Cover
The GREAT Scholarship offers a fixed financial contribution of £10,000 toward tuition fees only.
Covered Expenses
- Tuition fee reduction of £10,000 applied directly to the university invoice
Expenses not covered
- Visa application fees
- Immigration Health Surcharge
- Accommodation and living costs
- Flight and travel expenses
- Study materials and personal expenses
Typical tuition fees for UK master’s programs range from £14,000 to £30,000 per year. With the GREAT Scholarship applied, students often reduce their payable tuition to between £4,000 and £20,000 depending on the course and university.
Who Can Apply for GREAT Scholarships
The scholarship is available to students from selected countries, which vary slightly each year based on UK government priorities. Eligible countries commonly include Nigeria, India, Pakistan, Ghana, Kenya, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, China, Turkey, Mexico, Egypt, and Bangladesh.
General Eligibility Requirements
- Applicant must hold citizenship of an eligible country
- Applicant must have an offer for a full-time, one-year UK master’s program
- Applicant must meet academic entry requirements for the chosen course
- Applicant must demonstrate interest in the subject area
- Applicant must be willing to act as a GREAT ambassador for the UK education system
English language requirements are determined by the university and usually require IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent certification.
Participating UK Universities and Courses
GREAT Scholarships are offered by over 70 UK universities across a wide range of disciplines, including business, engineering, computer science, public health, law, education, data science, finance, and creative industries.
Each university determines
- Available courses eligible for the scholarship
- Country-specific eligibility
- Application deadlines
- Additional selection criteria
Because availability differs by institution, applicants must always verify details directly with the chosen university.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for GREAT Scholarships UK
Step 1: Choose an eligible UK university and course
Research participating universities offering GREAT Scholarships and identify a one-year master’s course aligned with your academic background and career goals.
Step 2: Apply for admission to the university
Submit a full postgraduate application through the university’s official admissions portal. You must receive an offer letter before applying for the scholarship.
Step 3: Check GREAT Scholarship availability
Confirm that your chosen course and nationality are eligible for the GREAT Scholarship at that university.
Step 4: Apply for the scholarship
Complete the GREAT Scholarship application through the university’s scholarship page. This often includes a short personal statement explaining your academic goals, leadership potential, and interest in studying in the UK.
Step 5: Attend interviews if required
Some universities conduct online interviews as part of the selection process.
Step 6: Accept the scholarship offer
If selected, formally accept the scholarship and enroll in the course by the stated deadline.
Application Timeline and Deadlines
Most GREAT Scholarship applications open between March and April each year.
Typical deadline window
March to May
Course start date
September intake
Because deadlines vary by university, early preparation is strongly recommended to avoid missing opportunities.
Tuition Fees and Cost Breakdown After Scholarship
Estimated cost example for an international student
Average UK master’s tuition fee: £18,000
GREAT Scholarship contribution: £10,000
Remaining tuition payable: £8,000
Additional mandatory fees
UK student visa application fee: approximately £490
Immigration Health Surcharge: approximately £1,035 per year
Estimated living costs
London: £1,200 to £1,500 per month
Outside London: £900 to £1,200 per month
These figures are approximate and may change based on UK government regulations and location.
Why GREAT Scholarships Are High-Value for International Students
The GREAT Scholarships program offers significant financial relief without requiring full government sponsorship obligations. It is particularly attractive for students seeking partial funding with flexible post-study options.
Key advantages
- Substantial tuition reduction
- Wide choice of universities and courses
- No repayment required
- Recognized by employers and academic institutions globally
- Compatible with personal or family funding plans
Post-Study Work Opportunities in the UK
Graduates who complete a UK master’s degree may be eligible for the UK Graduate Route, allowing them to work or seek employment in the UK for up to two years after graduation. This significantly increases the return on investment for students using partial scholarships such as GREAT.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Applying without a confirmed course offer
Missing university-specific scholarship deadlines
Submitting generic personal statements
Ignoring country eligibility restrictions
Underestimating total living and visa-related costs
Final Guidance for Prospective Applicants
The GREAT Scholarships UK program is one of the most accessible high-value funding opportunities for international postgraduate students. With proper planning, early application, and accurate budgeting, it can significantly reduce the financial barrier to studying in the UK while opening pathways to global career opportunities.
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