Scholarships in UK for Indian Students 2026 – Fully Funded Options

Scholarships in UK for Indian Students 2026 are among the most prestigious international funding opportunities available to support undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral education in the United Kingdom.

The UK is home to world-class universities and rich academic traditions, offering a range of fully funded scholarships that cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel funds, and sometimes research support. This complete guide provides verified scholarship options, eligibility criteria, official links, deadlines, and application tips.

Why Choose Scholarships in UK for Indian Students 2026?

Studying in the UK with fully funded scholarships allows Indian students to:

• Attend globally ranked universities

• Receive full tuition coverage

• Access monthly stipends for living costs

• Build global networks

• Enhance employment prospects

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in UK for Indian Students 2026

Below are the most prominent fully funded scholarships available for Indian students.

1. Chevening Scholarship

Level: Master’s (1 year)Coverage Includes:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly stipend

• Travel costs

• Visa application support

Official Website:https://www.chevening.org

Chevening is the UK government’s flagship scholarship program for global leaders.

2. Commonwealth Scholarship

Level: Master’s & PhDCoverage Includes:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly stipend

• Airfare

• Thesis allowance

Official Website:https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk

This scholarship supports students from Commonwealth countries including India.

3. Rhodes Scholarship

Level: PostgraduateCoverage Includes:

• Full tuition

• Monthly stipend

• Travel allowance

Official Website:https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk

Rhodes Scholarships are one of the oldest and most renowned awards for postgraduate study at the University of Oxford.

4. Gates Cambridge Scholarship

Level: PostgraduateCoverage Includes:

• Full tuition

• Living stipend

• Travel funds

Official Website:https://www.gatescambridge.org

Gates Cambridge Scholarships support outstanding students at the University of Cambridge.

5. Clarendon Fund Scholarship

Level: PostgraduateCoverage Includes:

• Full tuition

• Generous stipend

Official Website:https://www.ox.ac.uk/clarendon

Clarendon Scholarships are merit-based and cover fees plus living costs.

6. GREAT Scholarship (UK Government & Partners)

Level: Undergraduate & Postg

raduateCoverage Includes:

• Partial to full support depending on partner university

Official Website:https://www.britishcouncil.in/study-uk

GREAT Scholarships are offered in partnership with UK universities and the British Council.

Eligibility for Scholarships in UK for Indian Students 2026

Although requirements vary, most scholarships require:

• Strong academic record (often 60-75% or equivalent GPA)

• Leadership or community involvement

• English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)

• Letters of Recommendation

• Statement of Purpose or research proposal (for PhD)

Scholarships like Chevening and Commonwealth place strong emphasis on leadership potential.

Required Documents

Prepare the following to apply:

• Academic transcripts

• English proficiency score

• Resume/CV

• Statement of Purpose

• Letters of Recommendation

• Passport copy

• Research proposal (for PhD)

Application Timeline for 2026 Intake

Most scholarships open applications between August – October 2025 and close between November 2025 – January 2026.

Typical pattern:

Scholarship	Application Opens	Deadline
Chevening	Aug 2025	Nov 2025
Commonwealth	Sept 2025	Dec 2025
Rhodes	June 2025	Oct 2025
Gates Cambridge	Sept 2025	Dec 2025
Clarendon Fund	Oct 2025	Jan 2026

Always confirm exact dates on official links.

How to Apply Successfully

1. Start preparation early (10–12+ months ahead)

2. Craft a strong Statement of Purpose

3. Secure credible Recommendation letters

4. Prepare for English proficiency tests

5. Tailor each application to the scholarship criteria

Why UK Scholarships Are Valuable

Government and university-linked scholarships in the UK are considered highly prestigious and competitive. They not only provide financial support but also open doors to global networks and future career paths.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Scholarships in UK for Indian Students 2026?

These are fully funded opportunities offered by the UK government or universities to support Indian students studying abroad at undergraduate or postgraduate levels.

Are UK scholarships fully funded?

Yes, many UK scholarships cover full tuition, living costs, and travel support.