Which UK Universities Offer MRes Scholarships for International Students? Fully Funded MRes Scholarships for September 2025
Applying for a Master of Research (MRes) degree in the UK is an exciting step, especially for international students. However, navigating UK Masters fees and visa requirements can be complex. Research by Scholarship Scanner has identified four UK universities offering MRes scholarships for international students in September 2025, including a fully funded MRes scholarship opportunity. This blog reveals UK university MRes scholarships for international students, as well as some essential information about MRes courses.
How Much Are UK MRes Scholarships for International Students Worth?
UK MRes scholarships for international students in September 2025 typically range from £2,500 to £10,000, with one university offering a fully funded MRes scholarship for international students (100% tuition fee discount, plus a £17,000 maintenance grant for living expenses.)
Note that applicants from ‘low-income, lower-middle-income or upper-middle income countries’ as defined by the World Bank can apply for St George’s fully funded MRes scholarship.
| University | Scholarship | Countries | Type | Value | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St George's, University of London | St George's postgraduate scholarships (Global Health) | Low-income, lower-middle-income or upper-middle income country as defined by the World Bank | Automatic | 100% of tuition fees plus living expenses grant | Not specified |
| St George's, University of London | St George's postgraduate scholarships | All | Automatic | £3,000 | Not specified |
| University of Dundee | Vice Chancellor's South Asia Scholarship | South Asian countries | Automatic | £4,000 | 31 August 2025 |
| University of Dundee | Vice Chancellor's South East Asia Scholarship | South East Asian countries | Automatic | £4,000 | 31 August 2025 |
| University of Dundee | Vice Chancellor's Mainland China Scholarship | Mainland China | Automatic | £4,000 | 31 August 2025 |
| University of Dundee | Global Citizenship Scholarship | Some exclusions | Application | £4,000 | 31 July 2025 |
| University of Dundee | South Asia Community Scholarship | South Asian countries | Automatic | £2,500 | 31 August 2025 |
| University of Dundee | Africa Community Scholarship | African countries | Automatic | £2,500 | 31 August 2025 |
| University of Dundee | Vice Chancellor's Africa Scholarship | African countries | Automatic | £4,000 | 31 August 2025 |
| University of Glasgow | Global Leadership Scholarship | Some exclusions | Application | £10,000 | Not specified |
| University of Liverpool | Postgraduate Global Advancement Scholarship | Some exclusions | Automatic | £5,000 | Not specified |
Automatic vs. Application-Based UK MRes Scholarships for International Students
Automatic MRes Scholarships: Most scholarships (especially University of Dundee and University of Liverpool) are awarded automatically upon application.
Application-Based MRes Scholarships: The University of Glasgow's scholarship and University of Dundee’s Global Citizenship Scholarship require a formal application.
To maximise your chances of securing a UK international student scholarship, read our blogs on submitting winning applications and on creating video applications - it could save you thousands of pounds.
Eligible Subject Areas - UK Scholarships for MRes Students
UK MRes scholarships for international students in September 2025 are available in a wide range of subject areas. The most common MRes scholarships are available for subjects in the Humanities, Modern Languages, and Social Sciences.
There are also opportunities in Business, Management, Chemistry, Environmental Research, Biomedical Sciences and Health.
🔍 To check which specific courses are included in MRes scholarships for September 2025, use our Scholarship Finder UK, within the table click “Search” and type "MRes."
Which International Students are Eligible to Apply for UK MRes Scholarships?
Eligible countries for September 2025 MRes scholarships vary by university, with some scholarships open to all countries, while others are specific to regions (e.g., South Asia, South East Asia, Africa, etc.). The most comprehensive eligibility criteria come from the University of Dundee's Global Citizenship Scholarship, which includes a wide range of countries across all continents.
Typical Deadlines for UK MRes Scholarships for International Students (September 2025)
Most of UK MRes scholarships have application deadlines between July and August 2025. Prospective students should apply well in advance of these deadlines, to ensure they receive their offer before the scholarship deadline approaches. Some UK MRes scholarships for international students don't have specific deadlines, which may mean that it is ‘first come first served’ (so we recommend applying early to avoid disappointment.)
Quick Guide to MRes Degrees in the UK
What is an MRes?
A Master of Research (MRes) is a postgraduate degree in the UK focused on developing advanced research skills. This research Masters degree emphasises independent research and specialist taught modules, preparing students for PhDs or research-focused careers.
Key Differences from MSc/MA:
MRes: Research-intensive, with a major research project at its core.
MSc/MA: Primarily taught modules with a final dissertation.
Duration:
Full-time: Typically one year.
Part-time: Two years or more.
Bringing Dependants (UK MRes Visa Rules):
Current UK government visa rules permit dependants for "research-based higher degrees," which may include MRes degrees. Eligibility for a UK dependent visa depends on the university's classification of your MRes as a "research degree."
The UK dependent visa new rules require you to be aware of the fees involved, which include an application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Always verify the latest dependent visa requirements with your university and UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) for the most accurate information regarding applying for a dependent visa in the UK.
Dependant Definition:
Spouse/civil partner.
Unmarried partner (with two years of cohabitation proof).
Children under 18.
Important Note:
Visa rules are subject to change. Always refer to the official UKVI website for the most current information on UK dependant visa fees and requirements.
When considering MRes degrees, you can use a scholarship search UK tool to find fully funded MRes scholarships and fully funded scholarships for international students. Be sure to check for the UK Masters fees associated with your chosen programs.
