The GREAT Scholarships program represents one of the UK’s most accessible and widespread scholarship opportunities for international students, offering over 140 awards worth £10,000 each toward postgraduate study at more than 60 prestigious UK universities.
Award Value: £10,000 toward tuition fees
Total Scholarships: 140+ awards for 2026/27
Participating Universities: 60+ across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland
Eligible Countries: 18 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America
Study Level: One-year taught postgraduate Master’s degrees
This comprehensive guide provides everything prospective applicants from the 18 eligible countries need to know about GREAT Scholarships 2026/27, including eligibility requirements, participating universities by country, application procedures, selection criteria and success strategies.
About GREAT Scholarships
Program Origins and Mission
GREAT Scholarships is a joint initiative between three key partners:
1. UK Government’s GREAT Britain Campaign
- Promotes the UK as world leading destination for education, culture, business
- Showcases UK’s excellence in higher education globally
- Strengthens bilateral relationships with partner countries
2. British Council
- UK’s international organization for cultural relations and educational opportunities
- Manages program administration and scholar support
- Coordinates with universities and government partners
3. UK Higher Education Institutions
- Over 60 universities participate by co-funding scholarships
- Each university determines eligible programs and selection criteria
- Universities provide academic support and student experience
Program Goals:
- Expand access to world class UK postgraduate education
- Build long term relationships between UK and partner countries
- Develop global leaders and professionals
- Promote international understanding and collaboration
- Create lasting educational and cultural connections
- Support talented students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential
Why GREAT Scholarships Matter
For Students:
- Significant financial support (£10,000) toward tuition
- Access to UK’s world-renowned universities (many in global top 100)
- One year intensive Master’s programs (cost and time efficient)
- Opportunity to study across diverse subjects
- Networking with fellow GREAT scholars from around the world
- Alumni status with British Council and GREAT community
For Universities:
- Attract exceptional international talent
- Enhance diversity and global perspectives on campus
- Build international partnerships and networks
- Contribute to global development goals
For Countries:
- Develop skilled professionals and leaders
- Strengthen educational ties with UK
- Access to cutting-edge knowledge and research
- Build bilateral relationships
Scholarship Value and Coverage
What’s Included
Direct Financial Award: £10,000 (approximately $12,500 USD) paid directly toward tuition fees for one year taught postgraduate program
How It’s Applied:
- Awarded as tuition fee reduction/waiver
- Deducted directly from your total tuition fees
- Paid by university after registration
- Cannot be received as cash
- Applied to 2026/27 academic year only
Additional GREAT Scholar Benefits:
1. Welcome Event (First Semester):
- Meet fellow GREAT scholars studying across UK
- Network with scholars from your country and others
- Connect with British Council representatives
- Learn about UK education system and opportunities
2. Networking Event (Second Semester):
- Share experiences of studying in UK
- Discuss challenges and successes
- Provide feedback on GREAT program
- Build lasting professional relationships
3. Alumni Network:
- Join GREAT scholars alumni community (thousands worldwide)
- Access to future networking opportunities
- Ongoing British Council connection
- Potential to speak at future GREAT events
4. Ambassador Opportunities:
- Represent GREAT Scholarships in your country
- Share your UK study experience with prospective students
- Contribute to program promotion and development
What’s NOT Included
IMPORTANT: GREAT Scholarships cover only £10,000 toward tuition. Students must fund the remaining costs:
Remaining Tuition:
- UK postgraduate tuition typically ranges £15,000-£35,000 annually
- After £10,000 GREAT Scholarship, you pay £5,000-£25,000+ (depending on university and program)
- STEM programs often cost more than arts/humanities
Living Costs:
- Accommodation: £500-£800+ per month (depending on location)
- Food: £200-£300 per month
- Transportation: £50-£100 per month
- Books and supplies: £500-£1,000 per year
- Personal expenses: £150-£300 per month
- Total living costs: £12,000-£18,000 annually
- London significantly more expensive than other UK cities
Other Expenses:
- UK visa application fee: £490
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £940 for one year
- International airfare: £500-£2,000+ (depending on origin country)
- Pre-departure expenses (medical tests, document certification, etc.)
Total Budget Required: For most students, even with GREAT Scholarship, you’ll need approximately £20,000-£35,000 for full year (depending on university location and program).
Financial Planning:
- GREAT Scholarship significantly reduces costs but doesn’t fully fund study
- Plan for additional funding sources (family support, personal savings, bank loans, other scholarships)
- Consider cost of living differences between UK cities
- Budget for unexpected expenses
Eligible Countries for 2026/27
GREAT Scholarships 2026/27 are available to students from 18 countries:
Asian Countries (10):
- Bangladesh
- China
- India
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Nepal
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Thailand
- Vietnam
African Countries (4):
- Egypt
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Nigeria
European Countries (4):
- France
- Greece
- Italy
- Spain
Latin American Countries (2):
- Mexico
- Turkey
IMPORTANT: You must be a citizen and resident of one of these countries to be eligible. Citizenship alone may not be sufficient. Most universities require you to be permanently residing in eligible country at time of application.
Comprehensive Eligibility Requirements
1. Citizenship and Residency
Must be:
- Citizen (passport holder) of one of the 18 eligible countries listed above
- Permanent resident of that country at time of application
- Residing in eligible country when applying
2. University Admission
Must have:
- Applied for a full time, taught postgraduate Master’s program at a participating UK university
- Received an offer (conditional or unconditional) for eligible program starting September 2026
- Offer must be for ONE YEAR taught Master’s only (MA, MSc, LLM, MBA, etc.)
NOT eligible:
- Undergraduate programs
- PhD or research degrees (MPhil, MRes focused primarily on research)
- Distance learning or online programs
- Part time programs
- Programs longer than one academic year
- Postgraduate diplomas or certificates (unless they’re part of eligible Master’s program)
- Programs at partner institutions outside UK
3. Academic Requirements
Must demonstrate:
- Strong academic record from undergraduate degree
- Many universities require equivalent of UK 2:1 (upper second-class honours) or higher
- Some competitive universities/programs require UK First Class equivalent
Equivalent Grades by Country (general guidelines – verify with specific university):
- India: 60%+ (First Class) or 55-59% (high Second Class)
- Pakistan: 3.0-3.5+ GPA or 60%+
- China: 80%+ (or 75-80% from top universities)
- Bangladesh: 3.0+ GPA or 60%+
- Indonesia: 3.0+ GPA
- Nigeria: 3.0+ GPA (Second Class Upper minimum)
- Ghana: Second Class Upper minimum
- European countries: Equivalent of “very good” classification
4. English Language Proficiency
Must meet university’s English language requirements for your chosen program.
Typical Requirements:
- IELTS Academic: 6.5-7.0 overall (varies by university and program)
- TOEFL iBT: 90-100+
- Pearson PTE Academic: 62-70+
- Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) or Proficiency (CPE)
- Duolingo English Test: 120-130+ (accepted by some universities)
Exemptions may apply if:
- Your undergraduate degree was taught entirely in English
- You’re from majority English-speaking country (varies by university policy)
- You’ve completed recent English-medium education
Note: English requirements vary significantly by university and program. Business, law, and humanities programs often require higher scores than STEM programs.
5. Fee Status
Must be:
- Classified as international student paying overseas tuition fees
- NOT eligible for UK/EU “home” fee status
- Fully self-financing studies (not receiving funding from other sources that would conflict with GREAT Scholarship)
6. Program Restrictions
Cannot apply if:
- Already enrolled in UK university for program you’re applying scholarship toward
- Applying for program longer than one academic year
- Previously received GREAT Scholarship in any year
- Receiving full funding from other scholarship that covers full tuition
- Studying at UK university’s partner campus outside UK
7. Commitment Requirements
Must be willing to:
- Attend GREAT scholars welcome event (first semester)
- Participate in networking event with UK-based GREAT scholars (second semester)
- Provide feedback and share experiences of studying in UK
- Maintain contact with British Council and university
- Act as GREAT Scholarships ambassador
- As alumnus, occasionally speak to prospective candidates about UK study experience
- Consent to sharing contact details with British Council for program purposes
- Participate in promotional activities (may include photos, videos, testimonials)
Participating Universities by Country
Over 60 UK universities participate in GREAT Scholarships 2026/27, but each university offers scholarships to students from specific countries only.
Below are examples of participating universities and their country focuses (visit official GREAT Scholarships Study UK website for complete, up-to-date lists for each country):
Universities Offering GREAT Scholarships (Selected Examples):
England:
University of Bath
- Countries: Greece, Nigeria, Pakistan, Spain
- Eligible programs: Various one-year taught Master’s programs
- Deadline: May 31, 2026
University of Bristol
- Countries: India, Mexico, Thailand
- Scholarships: £13,000 (higher than standard GREAT)
- Additional support available
Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)
- Countries: Ghana, India, Indonesia
- Programs: Range of Master’s programs (specific to each country)
- Deadline: April 30, 2026
University of Nottingham
- Countries: Multiple (varies by program)
- One of largest scholarship providers
Sheffield Hallam University
- Countries: Egypt, Thailand
- Focus: Taught postgraduate programs
- Deadline: May 31, 2026
University of Kent
- Multiple countries supported
- Wide range of programs
University of Exeter
- Various eligible countries
- Strong research-focused programs
Cardiff University
- Countries: France, Greece, Italy, Mexico, Pakistan, Spain
- Six scholarships (one per country)
- Focus on academic merit
- Deadline: May 31, 2026
Scotland:
University of Edinburgh
- Countries: Ghana, Mexico, Thailand
- Requires UK First Class equivalent
- Selection based on academic merit
- Extensive list of eligible MSc programs per country
- Deadline: May 1, 2026
Universities across England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland:
- Aberystwyth University
- Aston University
- Bangor University
- Bournemouth University
- Brunel University London
- Canterbury Christ Church University
- City, University of London
- Coventry University
- De Montfort University
- Durham University
- Edge Hill University
- Glasgow Caledonian University
- Goldsmiths, University of London
- Heriot-Watt University
- Kingston University London
- Leeds Beckett University
- Liverpool John Moores University
- London South Bank University
- Manchester Metropolitan University
- Middlesex University
- Newcastle University
- Northumbria University
- Oxford Brookes University
- Plymouth University
- Queen’s University Belfast
- Robert Gordon University
- Royal Holloway, University of London
- SOAS University of London
- Solent University
- Staffordshire University
- Swansea University
- Teesside University
- University of Aberdeen
- University of Bedfordshire
- University of Birmingham
- University of Bradford
- University of Brighton
- University of Buckingham
- University of Chester
- University of Derby
- University of Dundee
- University of East Anglia (UEA)
- University of Essex
- University of Glasgow
- University of Greenwich
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Huddersfield
- University of Hull
- University of Lancaster
- University of Leeds
- University of Leicester
- University of Lincoln
- University of Liverpool
- University of Manchester
- University of Portsmouth
- University of Reading
- University of Roehampton
- University of Salford
- University of Sheffield
- University of Southampton
- University of Stirling
- University of Strathclyde
- University of Sunderland
- University of Surrey
- University of Sussex
- University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)
- University of the West of Scotland
- University of Ulster
- University of Warwick
- University of West London
- University of Westminster
- University of Winchester
- University of Wolverhampton
- University of Worcester
- University of York
- York St John University
Finding Your Options:
Each university offers scholarships for students from specific countries only. To find universities offering GREAT Scholarships for YOUR country:
- Visit: study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships
- Select your country from the list
- View complete list of participating universities for your country
- Click through to each university’s scholarship page
- Review eligible programs and specific requirements
- Note application deadlines (vary by university)
Eligible Programs and Subjects
GREAT Scholarships are available for one-year taught postgraduate Master’s programs across virtually all subject areas:
Common Subject Areas:
Business and Management:
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- MSc Management
- MSc Finance
- MSc Marketing
- MSc International Business
- MSc Human Resource Management
- MSc Entrepreneurship
Engineering and Technology:
- MSc Civil Engineering
- MSc Mechanical Engineering
- MSc Electrical Engineering
- MSc Computer Science
- MSc Artificial Intelligence
- MSc Data Science
- MSc Sustainable Engineering
Sciences:
- MSc Environmental Science
- MSc Biotechnology
- MSc Chemistry
- MSc Physics
- MSc Mathematics
- MSc Climate Change
Health and Medicine:
- MSc Public Health
- MSc Global Health
- MSc Health Management
- MSc Nursing (where one-year programs available)
Social Sciences:
- MA International Relations
- MA Development Studies
- MSc Economics
- MA Political Science
- MA Sociology
- MSc Psychology
Arts and Humanities:
- MA English Literature
- MA History
- MA Media and Communications
- MA Museum Studies
- MA Translation Studies
Law:
- LLM (Master of Laws) – various specializations
- LLM International Law
- LLM Human Rights Law
- LLM Commercial Law
Education:
- MA Education
- MA TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
- MA Educational Leadership
Architecture and Design:
- MA Architecture
- MA Urban Design
- MA Interior Design
Agriculture and Food Security:
- MSc Agriculture
- MSc Food Security
- MSc Sustainable Agriculture
Important Notes:
- Eligible programs vary significantly by university
- Not all Master’s programs at participating universities are eligible
- Each university determines which specific programs qualify
- Some universities restrict scholarships to certain faculties or subjects
- Always verify program eligibility on university’s GREAT Scholarship page
Application Process: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
CRITICAL: GREAT Scholarships applications are made directly to individual universities, NOT through a centralized system.
Timeline Overview
NOW – March 2026: Research universities and programs
January – April 2026: Apply for university admission
March – May 2026: Apply for GREAT Scholarships (deadlines vary by university)
May – June 2026: Universities make scholarship decisions
June – July 2026: Scholarship notifications sent
September 2026: Programs begin
Step 1: Research and Select Universities (NOW – February 2026)
A. Identify Universities Offering Scholarships to Your Country:
- Visit study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships
- Select your country
- Review list of participating universities
- Create shortlist (recommend applying to 3-5 universities)
B. Research Programs and Universities:
For each university on your shortlist:
- Visit university’s GREAT Scholarship webpage
- Identify eligible programs for your country
- Review program curriculum, modules, career outcomes
- Check university rankings in your field
- Research faculty and research strengths
- Consider location (London vs. other cities = cost difference)
- Review university’s reputation in your home country
C. Verify Eligibility:
- Confirm your citizenship country is eligible at that university
- Check your academic qualifications meet minimum requirements
- Verify English language requirements
- Ensure program is one-year taught Master’s
- Confirm program starts September 2026
D. Financial Planning:
- Calculate total tuition cost for each program
- After £10,000 GREAT Scholarship, how much remains?
- Research living costs in each city
- Total financial requirement for full year
- Identify additional funding sources if needed
Step 2: Apply for University Admission (January – April 2026)
IMPORTANT: You MUST have a university offer to apply for GREAT Scholarship.
A. Prepare Application Documents:
Academic Documents:
- Undergraduate degree certificate (or confirmation of expected graduation)
- Official academic transcripts (all years)
- Degree certificate translations (if not in English)
- Professional certificates or qualifications (if relevant)
English Language Proof:
- IELTS, TOEFL, or other accepted English test scores
- Meeting university’s specific requirements for your program
References:
- Two academic references (from professors/lecturers)
- Or one academic + one professional reference
- References should speak to your academic ability, potential, and suitability for postgraduate study
Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose:
- Why you want to study this specific program
- Your academic background and relevant experience
- Career goals and how program helps achieve them
- Why this particular university
- Typically 500-1000 words
CV/Resume:
- Education history
- Work experience
- Research experience (if applicable)
- Relevant skills
- Achievements and awards
- Volunteer work
Other Documents:
- Passport copy
- Portfolio (for creative programs)
- GMAT/GRE scores (if required for business programs)
B. Submit University Applications:
Application Methods:
- Some universities use UCAS Postgraduate
- Most accept direct applications via university portal
- Follow each university’s specific application process
Application Deadlines:
- Many UK universities accept rolling applications
- However, for scholarship consideration, apply by March-April 2026 latest
- Earlier application = better chance of admission and scholarship
- Recommend applying by February 2026 if targeting GREAT Scholarship
C. Track Your Applications:
- Monitor email regularly (including spam folder)
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
- Universities typically respond within 2-8 weeks
Step 3: Receive University Offer (March – May 2026)
Types of Offers:
Conditional Offer:
- You’ve been accepted subject to meeting certain conditions
- Common conditions: achieving certain final degree grade, providing final transcripts, meeting English language requirement
- Most GREAT Scholarship applications accepted with conditional offers
Unconditional Offer:
- Full acceptance with no further conditions
- Can apply immediately for scholarship
Accept Your Offer:
- You don’t need to formally “accept” offer to apply for scholarship
- However, some universities prefer/require acceptance before scholarship application
- Check specific university’s scholarship terms
Step 4: Apply for GREAT Scholarship (March – May 2026)
CRITICAL: Scholarship application is separate from university admission application.
A. Access Scholarship Application:
Where to Apply:
- Each university has its own scholarship application system
- Usually accessed through university’s student portal or dedicated scholarship portal
- Link typically provided on university’s GREAT Scholarship webpage
- Some universities send invitation to apply via email after you receive offer
B. Complete Scholarship Application Form:
Typical Required Information:
- Personal details (name, email, address, citizenship)
- University application/student ID number
- Program you’ve been offered admission to
- Academic qualifications
- How you learned about GREAT Scholarships
C. Write Scholarship Essays/Personal Statement:
Most universities require written responses to specific questions. Common questions include:
Question 1: Why do you want to study this program at this university? (200-500 words)
Address:
- Your interest in the subject
- Why this specific program and university
- How program aligns with career goals
- What specific modules/research areas appeal to you
Question 2: How will this program help you make a difference in your home country? (200-500 words)
Discuss:
- Current challenges or needs in your country/region
- How knowledge/skills from program address these
- Your specific plans post-graduation
- Impact you aim to create
Question 3: Why do you deserve this scholarship? (200-500 words)
Highlight:
- Your academic achievements
- Leadership experience
- Community engagement
- Financial need
- Commitment to giving back
Question 4: How will you promote UK as study destination? (200-300 words)
Explain:
- Your platforms for sharing experiences (social media, speaking engagements, etc.)
- Your network and influence in home country
- Willingness to be GREAT ambassador
- Ideas for promoting UK education
D. Upload Supporting Documents:
May include:
- Copy of university offer letter
- Academic transcripts (again)
- Passport copy
- CV
- Proof of English proficiency
E. Submit Application:
- Review all information carefully
- Ensure all essays are within word limits
- Check for grammar and spelling errors
- Submit before deadline
- Save confirmation email/receipt
Selection Criteria and What Universities Look For
Understanding selection criteria helps you craft strongest possible application.
Primary Selection Factors:
1. Academic Excellence (CRITICAL – Usually 40-50% of decision)
Universities prioritize:
- Strong undergraduate grades (typically 2:1 or First Class equivalent)
- Consistent high performance throughout degree
- Academic awards or distinctions
- Research experience (if applicable)
- Strong recommendations from academics
How to Strengthen:
- Ensure your transcripts clearly show your achievements
- Highlight any academic awards or scholarships received during undergraduate
- Ask for references from professors who can speak specifically to your academic abilities
- Mention relevant coursework that connects to proposed Master’s program
2. Program Fit and Motivation (30-40%)
Demonstrated through:
- Clear articulation of why this specific program
- Understanding of program content and structure
- Logical connection between background and proposed study
- Realistic career goals that align with program
- Evidence of genuine interest in subject
How to Strengthen:
- Research program thoroughly before writing application
- Mention specific modules, faculty, or research areas that interest you
- Connect your previous study/work to program clearly
- Show you understand how program will help achieve your goals
- Be specific, not generic
3. Leadership and Impact Potential (10-20%)
Evidence of:
- Leadership roles in academic, professional, or community settings
- Initiatives you’ve started or led
- Community engagement and volunteer work
- Potential to create positive change
- Track record of achievement beyond academics
How to Strengthen:
- Include concrete examples of leadership experiences
- Quantify impact where possible (e.g., “Led team of 15 students,” “Raised £5,000 for charity”)
- Show progression of responsibility over time
- Connect leadership to future goals
4. Commitment to Home Country (10-20%)
Demonstrated by:
- Clear plans to return home after studies
- Understanding of challenges/needs in home country
- Vision for how you’ll apply learning at home
- Intention to contribute to development
- Evidence of existing engagement with home country issues
How to Strengthen:
- Be specific about challenges you want to address
- Mention specific organizations, sectors, or communities you’ll work with
- Show understanding of home country context
- Explain why UK education specifically helps you address these challenges
5. Ambassadorship Potential (5-10%)
Ability to:
- Represent UK education positively
- Share experiences with others
- Engage with media or speaking opportunities
- Use social media or other platforms effectively
- Network and build relationships
How to Strengthen:
- Mention any public speaking experience
- Describe your networks and platforms
- Show willingness to actively promote UK education
- Provide examples of previous advocacy or representation roles
Conclusion: Your Path to UK Education
GREAT Scholarships 2026/27 offers exceptional opportunities for talented students from 18 countries to pursue postgraduate education at prestigious UK universities. While £10,000 represents partial funding requiring additional financial resources, it significantly reduces the cost barrier to world-class education.
GREAT Scholarships represent more than financial support, they’re investment in future leaders, bridge between cultures, and pathway to positive change. If you’re academically excellent, committed to making a difference in your home country, and ready for transformative UK education experience, GREAT Scholarships could be your opportunity.
