Scholarships to study in the UK

High tuition fee and student loans shouldn’t deter you from living your dream of studying overseas. Universities and schools in the UK offer a range of scholarships, bursaries and grants to international students. You can also apply to scholarships provided by the government, public and private organisations. Before you apply to any of these scholarships, do check the eligibility and criteria, along with the closing date.

The primary criterion for most scholarships is a good academic score, however it also depends on factors such as your chosen destination, subject and level. In some scholarships, factors like extracurricular activities, and volunteering can also be used to advantage.

However, do note that the amount of money available and type of award varies between the various institutions. Getting a scholarship is competitive and so, you must apply well in time. We recommend you to start with the procedure about 8-12 months before the intake begins. If you get stuck anywhere, IDP counsellors will be more than happy to guide you through.

Two major government scholarships programs available to international students in the UK are:

• Chevening: This initiative supports talented professionals who have shown prior leadership skills and exceptional performance in their respective fields. With Chevening, you can apply for a scholarship or fellowship, the selection of which is done by the high commission and British embassies

• Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC): The CSC in the UK offers fellowships and scholarships to students from Commonwealth countries. Bangladeshi students applying for a master’s degree or a PhD in the UK can take advantage of this scholarship to fund their education. Under the scheme, there are scholarships available specifically for low and middle income countries that you can take advantage of.

Also, all universities and colleges also have their own set of scholarships which can be subject or destination specific. Do check with them for available options in time.

Keep in mind

Every scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. In case of some, just an application will help you get hold of the scholarship. For research centric programs, you may have to submit written assignments. So, research well and do not hesitate to contact the university admission centre if you have any doubts.

Securing a good scholarship can help bring down your cost of studying internationally considerably. If you wish to explore university wise options, speak with your IDP counsellor for specific details. They can also assist you in finding the right scholarship for you.