What is an MRes (Master of Research) Degree? Can I Bring My Dependant to the UK With Me?

19 Feb

A Master of Research (MRes) is a type of UK postgraduate degree designed for students who want to develop advanced research skills. Unlike traditional ‘taught’ Master’s degrees (such as an MSc or MA), an MRes focuses heavily on independent research, combined with specialist taught modules.

Many students choose an MRes degree to prepare for a PhD or research-focused careers in academia. However, the skills gained in qualitative and quantitative research are also highly valued by employers, particularly in industries where data-driven decision-making is crucial. Even if you’re not looking to pursue a PhD, an MRes develops valuable skills - equipping graduates to work independently and apply a research-driven approach in business, industry, and professional practice.

In this article Scholarship Scanner covers all aspects of an MRes degree in the UK, including MRes scholarships for international students and visa rules for dependants.

How is an MRes Different From Other Master's Degrees?

A standard MSc or MA typically involves structured modules with a dissertation at the end. In contrast, an MRes degree is research-intensive, with a major research project at its core. While you’ll still take some taught modules, these are designed to enhance your research abilities rather than follow a structured syllabus.

Which Subject Areas Offer an MRes?

MRes degrees are available in a wide range of disciplines, including:

✔ Business
✔ Engineering
✔ Healthcare
✔ Social Sciences
✔ Environmental Sciences

Many UK universities offer specialized research Master's degrees tailored to industry and academic needs.

How Long Does an MRes Take?

A full-time MRes degree in the UK usually takes one year, but this can vary depending on the university and course structure. Part-time MRes degrees may take two years or more.

Can International Students Get Scholarships for an MRes?

Yes! Research by Scholarship Scanner has identified 22 different MRes scholarship schemes offered by five UK universities for September 2025. Some are fully funded scholarships for international students, while others cover partial tuition fees. Scholarship eligibility varies by nationality, course, and university.

🔍 To find MRes scholarships for September 2025, use our Scholarship Finder UK, within the table click “Search” and type "MRes."

Scholarship Finder

You can also read our blog article on which UK universities offer fully funded MRes scholarships for international students for September 2025.

Can I Bring My Dependant to the UK on an MRes Degree?

If you're an international student planning to study an MRes in the UK, you might be wondering about the UK dependant visa rules.

The UK dependant visa new rules (introduced in January 2024) mean that most international students can no longer bring their dependants with them to the UK.

However, the UK government’s new student visa rules only permit dependants for those studying a postgraduate research degree. Some universities classify an MRes degree UK as a research degree, but policies may vary.

Here’s what you need to know:

To apply for a UK dependant visa, you must be studying a ”research-based higher degree” at a UK university, such as an MRes degree or PhD.
If eligible, dependants (spouse/children) can apply for a UK dependant visa, but you must meet the UK dependant visa requirements regarding finances and accommodation.

An MRes degree UK is not always classified as a "research degree" for visa purposes, so check your university’s visa policy. For more details, visit the UK Government’s Visas and Immigration UKVI website or speak to your university’s international student office.

Disclaimer: The visa information provided in this article is accurate as of 19th February 2025 and is based on details available from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Visa rules and requirements are subject to change, so we strongly recommend checking the UKVI official website for the most up-to-date information before making any decisions.

Who is Considered a Dependant, and What are the UK Dependant Visa Requirements?

If you’re an international student planning to study an MRes in the UK, you might be eligible to bring your dependants with you. A dependant is:

✔ Your spouse or civil partner
✔ Your unmarried partner (must prove you’ve lived together for at least two years)
✔ Your child under 18 (including those born in the UK during your stay)

To apply for a UK dependant visa, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). For full details, visit the UKVI website.

UK Dependant Visa Fees

Each dependant must pay:

£490 for the visa application
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) – check how much they’ll need to pay using the UK government’s IHS calculator.

Before applying for a UK dependant visa, check with your university whether your Master of Research (MRes) degree qualifies.

Start Your Scholarship Search

With UK Masters fees being a significant investment, securing a scholarship can make studying in the UK more affordable and reduce financial stress. If you’re considering a UK MRes degree, it’s important to explore funding options early.

Begin your scholarship search UK by comparing available opportunities, including fully funded scholarships for international students. Use our UK Scholarship Finder to discover and apply for scholarships that align with your academic and career goals.

Good luck with your UK scholarship search!