UK scholarships for Indian students in 2025 | Opportunities & visa guide
The United Kingdom remains one of the most sought-after study destinations for Indian students—and it’s easy to see why. With world-renowned universities, vibrant cultural diversity, and excellent career prospects, studying in the UK is a life-changing opportunity. But with the rising costs of international education, securing UK scholarships for Indian students can make all the difference.
In this guide, we explore the advantages of studying in the UK, outline key details about the two-year post-study work visa, and highlight the most accessible and generous scholarships for Indian students to study in the UK. From fully funded awards to prestigious opportunities like the GREAT Scholarships, we’ll help you discover the best scholarships for Indian students in the UK—and how to apply for them.
Why study in the UK as an Indian student?
The UK offers a unique combination of academic excellence, cultural richness, and career opportunities. With UK universities consistently ranking among the world’s best, it’s no surprise that thousands of Indian students choose the UK each year.
Studying in the UK offers:
1. World-class education
The UK is home to some of the world’s top-ranking universities, such as the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and the University of Edinburgh. Whether you're looking for a scholarship for undergraduate students from India or a scholarship for a masters for Indian students, you’ll find institutions with a strong reputation for teaching, research, and employability.
2. Shorter duration of courses
UK undergraduate degrees typically last three years, and master's degrees are often one year in duration—allowing you to enter the workforce more quickly and save on living costs.
3. Post-study work opportunities
A major advantage for Indian students is the UK two year post study work visa UK. Officially known as the Graduate Route, this visa allows international students to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK for two years (or three years for PhD graduates) after completing their studies.
The UK post study work visa UK is a game-changer. It gives you valuable international work experience, helps pay back education costs, and can even be a pathway to long-term employment and immigration options. For more information about the Graduate Route read our Complete Guide to the UK Post Study Work Visa.
However, these benefits come with a significant cost—making scholarships for Indian students in the UK more important than ever.
Top UK scholarships for Indian students in 2025
Funding your studies in the UK is possible, but understanding the landscape is key. While fully funded scholarships for Indian students in UK exist, they are highly competitive and limited in number. However, there are many partial and merit-based scholarships for Indian students in the UK offered by universities, governments, and external organisations.
Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
1. Fully funded scholarships for Indian students in UK
These scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs. However, they are rare and often targeted at students with exceptional academic, leadership, or professional achievements. Examples include:
Chevening Scholarships – The UK government’s global scholarship programme for master’s degrees.
Commonwealth Scholarships – For students from developing Commonwealth countries pursuing postgraduate study.
Rhodes Scholarships – Fully funded awards for study at the University of Oxford, open to exceptional students.
2. GREAT Scholarships
The GREAT Scholarships programme is a fantastic opportunity for Indian students looking to study in the UK. Jointly funded by the UK government’s GREAT Britain Campaign and participating UK universities, this scheme offers £10,000 towards tuition fees for a wide range of one-year postgraduate courses.
Each year, multiple UK universities offer these scholarships specifically for Indian students. Applying to these is relatively straightforward and based on academic merit, with some universities considering leadership qualities or a commitment to your field of study.
Visit the GREAT Scholarships website to find details of scholarships for Indian students.
3. University-specific scholarships
Many UK universities offer their own international scholarships for Indian students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These are often based on academic performance, and many are automatic scholarships which means you typically don’t need a separate application. Some examples:
University of Bristol – Think Big Scholarships
University of Nottingham – Developing Solutions Masters Scholarship
University of Manchester – Global Futures Scholarship
Use our search tools to explore options tailored to your academic background and chosen subject.
How to apply for scholarships for Indian students in the UK
Applying for UK scholarships for Indian students can be competitive, but careful planning increases your chances. Here's how to start:
Start early: Scholarship deadlines often fall months before course start dates.
Check eligibility carefully: Some are limited to specific courses or levels (e.g., only scholarship for undergraduate students in India or only postgraduate).
Prepare a strong personal statement: Highlight academic achievements, extracurriculars, and your future goals.
Apply widely: Don’t rely on just one scholarship – apply to as many as you're eligible for.
For more ideas on how to craft a winning scholarship application, read our scholarship advice guide.
Final thoughts
Studying in the UK is an exciting opportunity, and while fully funded scholarships for Indian students in UK are limited, there is a wide range of partial and international scholarships for Indian students that can make your dream more affordable. Combine these with the advantages of the post study work visa UK, and it’s easy to see why more Indian students than ever are choosing the UK.
At ScholarshipScanner.com, we make it easier for you to discover and apply for the best scholarships for Indian students to study in the UK. Start your journey today!