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Scholarships
Difference between Bursary and Scholarships
The terms ‘bursary’ and ‘scholarship’ are interchangeable across universities. However, there tends to be one difference: Scholarships are likely to be competitive and often supported by generous donors. Bursaries are usually non-competitive, automatic and based on financial need. They may also be described as ‘awards’.
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Scholarship Tips for International Students
University education in the United Kingdom is highly esteemed globally, offering quality teaching and promising future returns for graduates. However, the costs can be significant, leading many international students to seek scholarships and grants. International students can apply for scholarships from the British government and various public and private organizations. Securing these scholarships can be challenging due to strict eligibility criteria and competition. Applicants must demonstrate their deservingness convincingly. Start your scholarship search early by exploring resources online. For accurate and current information, consult professionals who specialize in scholarships. It’s crucial to note that adequate funding for education and living expenses is required before entering the UK and starting studies. Immigration authorities require proof of financial stability for entry. Competition for grants in the UK is intense, with organizations enforcing rigorous guidelines for applicants.
Chevening Scholarship in the UK
The Chevening Scholarship is a prestigious international awards program sponsored by the British government. It offers Scholarships and Fellowships selected by British embassies and high commissioners worldwide, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) along with partner organizations. The Chevening Scholarship provides an exceptional opportunity for future global leaders, influencers, and decision-makers to enhance their professional and academic skills. Scholars benefit from extensive networking opportunities, exposure to UK culture, and the chance to establish lasting connections with the United Kingdom. The selection process for Chevening Scholars, from application submission to conditional award selection, spans approximately eight months.
Commonwealth Scholarships
Since 1960, the Commonwealth Scholarships program has supported over 30,000 individuals who have come to the UK as Commonwealth Scholars. Over six decades, the program has evolved to meet the needs of the diverse Commonwealth, which now consists of 53 nations as of 2019. Commonwealth Scholarships support talented individuals from Commonwealth countries with lower and middle incomes. These scholarships are primarily funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to advance the UK’s international development goals, promote excellence in UK higher education, and uphold Commonwealth standards.
The scholarships offered
Scholarships are offered to students from 14 select countries, allowing them to study a wide range of one-year taught postgraduate programmes. The scholarship is offered through a partnership between the British government and participating universities. The fourteen countries eligible for GREAT Scholarships are China, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Egypt, Turkey, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and Mexico.
The Royal Society Grant Program
The Royal Society, the world’s oldest scientific academy, supports outstanding researchers in the United Kingdom and globally by offering grants and fellowships. Their website provides details on various types of fellowships, awards, and grants.
EURAXESS United Kingdom Scholarship
EURAXESS UK, managed by the British Council, supports researchers in career development, facilitates mobility, and acts as a support system for researchers moving to or from the UK. The EURAXESS portal provides a free funding database, a job search engine, and other relevant information and tools.
Direct Scholarship Applications to Universities
Many universities in the United Kingdom offer substantial financial aid to international students based on their academic achievements or financial circumstances. You can explore scholarships or financial aid programs directly on any university’s official website. Information on fees, funding, and scholarships is typically found under sections labeled “Fees and funding,” “Funding,” or “Scholarships.” If you have trouble finding details, contacting the university directly can provide answers to your questions.
Gain practical insights on securing scholarships with our top tips:
Identify the scholarships that best suit your profile. With numerous competitive options available, prioritize applications where you have the strongest chance of success. Allocate time wisely to maximize your opportunities.
Types of Scholarship
For students attending secondary education institutions, costs can add up quickly. Tuition, housing, books, food, and other supplies – these types of expenses lead many students to seeking student loans and scholarships. In fact, it is this growing need for additional funding that may have led you or your organization to create a scholarship fund. When you start your research process however, you may realize that there are several types of scholarship funds out there, and it can be difficult to determine which is best to create. With this in mind, below we’re covering eight of the various types of scholarships out there.
The academic scholarship is one of the most common types of scholarship funds. These scholarships are often merit-based. What is a merit-based scholarship?
Merit-based scholarships are scholarships that are awarded to students based on academic or other merit-based criteria, as opposed to need-based criteria. Merit-based scholarships can come from a variety of sources, including colleges, private organizations, and state governments.
How do merit based scholarships work? At least for academic scholarships, they are typically offered by colleges to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement in high school and/or their initial years in a four year university – usually judged by their grade point average. However, these scholarships also can look at SAT/ACT scores, Advanced Placement (AP) test scores, and additional testing based criteria. If a student qualifies academically, they may be awarded a scholarship that covers a portion of or all of their tuition.
It’s worth noting that academic scholarships may come with additional caveats such as requiring that a student maintain a certain GPA throughout their secondary education. This is especially important to be aware of when a student is awarded a multi-year or multi-semester scholarship as failure to meet the requirements could result in a loss of their funding for the subsequent terms of schooling.
A Full-Ride Scholarship is one of the most coveted types of financial aid, designed to cover the full cost of a student’s education. This scholarship typically includes tuition, room and board, books, and sometimes additional costs like travel or personal expenses, allowing the recipient to focus entirely on their academic and extracurricular pursuits without financial strain. These scholarships are offered by various institutions, including universities, private organizations, and government bodies, and they are usually highly competitive, requiring excellent academic performance, leadership qualities, and sometimes a demonstration of financial need.
One of the key benefits of a full-ride scholarship is that it frees students from the financial burden of higher education, which can significantly reduce the need for loans or part-time work. This can be especially impactful in countries where the cost of education is high, enabling students from all economic backgrounds to attend prestigious institutions. Beyond the financial aspect, many full-ride scholarships also provide additional opportunities, such as access to special mentoring programs, internships, and networking events that enhance the student’s educational experience.
Recipients of full-ride scholarships often go on to achieve great success in their respective fields, as the scholarship not only alleviates financial concerns but also provides a platform for academic and personal growth. The highly competitive nature of these scholarships fosters an environment of excellence, where recipients are driven to maintain high standards throughout their academic journey. For universities and donors, awarding a full-ride scholarship is an investment in future leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will make significant contributions to society.
Scholarships by Major are financial aid programs specifically designed for students pursuing education in a particular field of study or academic discipline. These scholarships are often sponsored by universities, private organizations, professional associations, and industry groups to attract talented individuals to areas of study that are crucial to specific sectors, such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), healthcare, arts, business, or education. Scholarships by major not only help alleviate the financial burden of education but also encourage students to excel in fields where there may be a high demand for skilled professionals or a shortage of expertise.
For example, STEM scholarships have become increasingly popular, driven by the growing need for professionals in technology and engineering sectors. Organizations like the National Science Foundation (NSF) or private companies such as Google and Microsoft offer scholarships for students majoring in computer science, data science, or engineering to ensure the development of future innovators. Similarly, healthcare scholarships target nursing, medical, and public health students, addressing the urgent need for qualified healthcare workers, particularly in underserved areas. These scholarships often come with internships or networking opportunities within the sponsoring organizations, which helps students gain practical experience in their chosen field.
In addition to fields like STEM and healthcare, scholarships by major can also target the arts, social sciences, or humanities. Institutions may offer support to students majoring in creative fields, such as music, literature, or fine arts, to promote cultural growth and diversity. Business scholarships may focus on future leaders in finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship. Overall, these scholarships not only provide financial support but also foster talent and innovation in key areas, ensuring that students are prepared to make significant contributions to their industries after graduation.
Scholarships for Women are financial aid programs designed to support women in their pursuit of higher education and to address gender disparities in various academic and professional fields. These scholarships aim to empower women by removing financial barriers and encouraging them to excel in areas where they have historically been underrepresented, such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), business, law, and leadership roles. By offering these opportunities, organizations, universities, and foundations contribute to closing the gender gap in education and the workforce, promoting equality and diversity in key sectors of society.
Many scholarships for women are specifically targeted toward fostering female participation in STEM fields, where gender imbalances still persist. Programs like the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and the Google Women Techmakers Scholars Program provide financial aid, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for women pursuing degrees in engineering, computer science, and related disciplines. Additionally, scholarships may also focus on women from underrepresented or marginalized backgrounds, further enhancing diversity and creating inclusive educational environments. These scholarships encourage women to break through barriers and succeed in traditionally male-dominated fields, which leads to greater gender equality in those industries.
In addition to field-specific scholarships, some programs focus on leadership and career advancement. For instance, organizations like the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and the International Women’s Forum (IWF) offer scholarships that support women in graduate studies, public policy, and entrepreneurship. These scholarships not only provide financial support but also empower women to become leaders and change-makers in their communities and industries. Overall, scholarships for women are vital in leveling the playing field, creating opportunities for women to succeed academically and professionally, and driving gender equality across various sectors.
Another common type of scholarship is the athletic scholarship. Athletic scholarships are awarded based on athletic ability, such as what sport you play, your skill level, and if you’re on a team. Athletic scholarships are usually pretty rare in that only a small percentage of students receive one because they are difficult to qualify for.
Athletic scholarships are typically very specific in their requirements including, but not limited to: number of years played, GPA, socioeconomic status, sports signed on to play in school. These scholarships also often require you to attend specific universities/state schools and play the sport that qualified you for the scholarship in the first place. For example, it’s not uncommon for a baseball athlete to earn a scholarship to a school with one of the conditions being they play baseball for that institution.
Government Scholarships are financial aid programs offered by national, regional, or local governments to support students in pursuing their education, both domestically and internationally. These scholarships are often part of a broader effort to increase access to education, reduce economic disparities, and develop a highly skilled workforce. Government scholarships can vary widely in scope—some cover tuition fees, while others may offer full funding, including living expenses, travel costs, and additional academic resources. Governments may offer these scholarships to students based on merit, financial need, or to encourage study in specific fields like STEM, healthcare, or public service.
In many countries, government scholarships play a crucial role in helping students from low-income families access higher education. These programs not only ease the financial burden but also create opportunities for social mobility and economic development. For example, scholarships offered by federal governments might prioritize underrepresented or disadvantaged communities to promote inclusivity in education. Some governments also offer international scholarships, like the U.S. Fulbright Program or the UK’s Chevening Scholarships, aimed at building diplomatic relations and fostering global academic exchange.
Recipients of government scholarships often have obligations attached, such as maintaining a certain academic standing or, in some cases, returning to work in their home country after completing their studies abroad. This ensures that the investment benefits both the individual and the larger society. Government scholarships are thus not only a means of personal advancement for students but also a strategic tool for national development, enabling governments to address skill shortages, promote innovation, and strengthen various sectors of the economy.
Ethnicity-Based Scholarships are designed to provide financial aid to students from specific ethnic or racial backgrounds, promoting diversity and inclusion in higher education. These scholarships are typically offered by universities, private organizations, non-profits, and cultural foundations, with the aim of helping underrepresented groups access educational opportunities that they might not otherwise afford. By offering support to ethnic minorities, these scholarships help reduce the financial barriers that often hinder students from pursuing higher education, while also encouraging diversity in academic institutions and various professional fields.
One of the main goals of ethnicity-based scholarships is to address historical inequalities and create pathways for students from marginalized communities to succeed in higher education. For example, scholarships may be available for African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, Asian, or Pacific Islander students, with eligibility based on an applicant’s heritage or cultural background. Organizations like the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) or the Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) are well-known for providing financial support to students within their respective communities. In addition to tuition assistance, these scholarships often include mentoring, leadership development, and networking opportunities, ensuring that recipients have both financial and professional resources to succeed.
Ethnicity-based scholarships also benefit educational institutions by fostering a more inclusive and diverse student body, enriching the learning environment with a variety of perspectives and experiences. Many of these scholarships are aimed at encouraging students to pursue fields where certain ethnic groups are underrepresented, such as STEM, law, or business. By supporting students from diverse backgrounds, these scholarships not only help individual recipients achieve their educational and career goals but also contribute to a more equitable and culturally rich society.
Needs-Based Scholarships are financial aid programs awarded to students based on their demonstrated financial need rather than merit or academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to help students from low-income families access higher education by covering costs such as tuition, fees, books, and sometimes even living expenses. Needs-based scholarships ensure that a student’s financial situation does not become a barrier to pursuing an education, especially in countries where the cost of higher education is substantial. These scholarships are often funded by governments, universities, and private organizations committed to making education accessible to all.
The process of determining eligibility for needs-based scholarships usually involves assessing a student’s financial background, often through documentation like tax returns, household income statements, or the completion of a financial aid application such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in the United States. Once eligibility is established, the scholarship amount may be tailored to cover the gap between a family’s financial capacity and the total cost of attendance. These scholarships are particularly beneficial for students who might not qualify for merit-based scholarships but have the potential to thrive academically if given the opportunity and financial support.
Needs-based scholarships not only make higher education more inclusive but also play a crucial role in fostering social mobility. By removing financial barriers, these scholarships allow students from disadvantaged backgrounds to attend prestigious universities, improve their career prospects, and break the cycle of poverty. They often come with additional resources like mentoring or academic support services, ensuring that students not only receive financial assistance but also have the tools to succeed throughout their educational journey. Ultimately, needs-based scholarships help create a more equitable society by giving all students the chance to succeed regardless of their financial circumstances.
The academic scholarship is one of the most common types of scholarship funds. These scholarships are often merit-based. What is a merit-based scholarship?
Merit-based scholarships are scholarships that are awarded to students based on academic or other merit-based criteria, as opposed to need-based criteria. Merit-based scholarships can come from a variety of sources, including colleges, private organizations, and state governments.
How do merit based scholarships work? At least for academic scholarships, they are typically offered by colleges to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement in high school and/or their initial years in a four year university – usually judged by their grade point average. However, these scholarships also can look at SAT/ACT scores, Advanced Placement (AP) test scores, and additional testing based criteria. If a student qualifies academically, they may be awarded a scholarship that covers a portion of or all of their tuition.
It’s worth noting that academic scholarships may come with additional caveats such as requiring that a student maintain a certain GPA throughout their secondary education. This is especially important to be aware of when a student is awarded a multi-year or multi-semester scholarship as failure to meet the requirements could result in a loss of their funding for the subsequent terms of schooling.
Another common type of scholarship is the athletic scholarship. Athletic scholarships are awarded based on athletic ability, such as what sport you play, your skill level, and if you’re on a team. Athletic scholarships are usually pretty rare in that only a small percentage of students receive one because they are difficult to qualify for.
Athletic scholarships are typically very specific in their requirements including, but not limited to: number of years played, GPA, socioeconomic status, sports signed on to play in school. These scholarships also often require you to attend specific universities/state schools and play the sport that qualified you for the scholarship in the first place. For example, it’s not uncommon for a baseball athlete to earn a scholarship to a school with one of the conditions being they play baseball for that institution.
A Full-Ride Scholarship is one of the most coveted types of financial aid, designed to cover the full cost of a student’s education. This scholarship typically includes tuition, room and board, books, and sometimes additional costs like travel or personal expenses, allowing the recipient to focus entirely on their academic and extracurricular pursuits without financial strain. These scholarships are offered by various institutions, including universities, private organizations, and government bodies, and they are usually highly competitive, requiring excellent academic performance, leadership qualities, and sometimes a demonstration of financial need.
One of the key benefits of a full-ride scholarship is that it frees students from the financial burden of higher education, which can significantly reduce the need for loans or part-time work. This can be especially impactful in countries where the cost of education is high, enabling students from all economic backgrounds to attend prestigious institutions. Beyond the financial aspect, many full-ride scholarships also provide additional opportunities, such as access to special mentoring programs, internships, and networking events that enhance the student’s educational experience.
Recipients of full-ride scholarships often go on to achieve great success in their respective fields, as the scholarship not only alleviates financial concerns but also provides a platform for academic and personal growth. The highly competitive nature of these scholarships fosters an environment of excellence, where recipients are driven to maintain high standards throughout their academic journey. For universities and donors, awarding a full-ride scholarship is an investment in future leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will make significant contributions to society.
Government Scholarships are financial aid programs offered by national, regional, or local governments to support students in pursuing their education, both domestically and internationally. These scholarships are often part of a broader effort to increase access to education, reduce economic disparities, and develop a highly skilled workforce. Government scholarships can vary widely in scope—some cover tuition fees, while others may offer full funding, including living expenses, travel costs, and additional academic resources. Governments may offer these scholarships to students based on merit, financial need, or to encourage study in specific fields like STEM, healthcare, or public service.
In many countries, government scholarships play a crucial role in helping students from low-income families access higher education. These programs not only ease the financial burden but also create opportunities for social mobility and economic development. For example, scholarships offered by federal governments might prioritize underrepresented or disadvantaged communities to promote inclusivity in education. Some governments also offer international scholarships, like the U.S. Fulbright Program or the UK’s Chevening Scholarships, aimed at building diplomatic relations and fostering global academic exchange.
Recipients of government scholarships often have obligations attached, such as maintaining a certain academic standing or, in some cases, returning to work in their home country after completing their studies abroad. This ensures that the investment benefits both the individual and the larger society. Government scholarships are thus not only a means of personal advancement for students but also a strategic tool for national development, enabling governments to address skill shortages, promote innovation, and strengthen various sectors of the economy.
Scholarships by Major are financial aid programs specifically designed for students pursuing education in a particular field of study or academic discipline. These scholarships are often sponsored by universities, private organizations, professional associations, and industry groups to attract talented individuals to areas of study that are crucial to specific sectors, such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), healthcare, arts, business, or education. Scholarships by major not only help alleviate the financial burden of education but also encourage students to excel in fields where there may be a high demand for skilled professionals or a shortage of expertise.
For example, STEM scholarships have become increasingly popular, driven by the growing need for professionals in technology and engineering sectors. Organizations like the National Science Foundation (NSF) or private companies such as Google and Microsoft offer scholarships for students majoring in computer science, data science, or engineering to ensure the development of future innovators. Similarly, healthcare scholarships target nursing, medical, and public health students, addressing the urgent need for qualified healthcare workers, particularly in underserved areas. These scholarships often come with internships or networking opportunities within the sponsoring organizations, which helps students gain practical experience in their chosen field.
In addition to fields like STEM and healthcare, scholarships by major can also target the arts, social sciences, or humanities. Institutions may offer support to students majoring in creative fields, such as music, literature, or fine arts, to promote cultural growth and diversity. Business scholarships may focus on future leaders in finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship. Overall, these scholarships not only provide financial support but also foster talent and innovation in key areas, ensuring that students are prepared to make significant contributions to their industries after graduation.
Ethnicity-Based Scholarships are designed to provide financial aid to students from specific ethnic or racial backgrounds, promoting diversity and inclusion in higher education. These scholarships are typically offered by universities, private organizations, non-profits, and cultural foundations, with the aim of helping underrepresented groups access educational opportunities that they might not otherwise afford. By offering support to ethnic minorities, these scholarships help reduce the financial barriers that often hinder students from pursuing higher education, while also encouraging diversity in academic institutions and various professional fields.
One of the main goals of ethnicity-based scholarships is to address historical inequalities and create pathways for students from marginalized communities to succeed in higher education. For example, scholarships may be available for African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, Asian, or Pacific Islander students, with eligibility based on an applicant’s heritage or cultural background. Organizations like the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) or the Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) are well-known for providing financial support to students within their respective communities. In addition to tuition assistance, these scholarships often include mentoring, leadership development, and networking opportunities, ensuring that recipients have both financial and professional resources to succeed.
Ethnicity-based scholarships also benefit educational institutions by fostering a more inclusive and diverse student body, enriching the learning environment with a variety of perspectives and experiences. Many of these scholarships are aimed at encouraging students to pursue fields where certain ethnic groups are underrepresented, such as STEM, law, or business. By supporting students from diverse backgrounds, these scholarships not only help individual recipients achieve their educational and career goals but also contribute to a more equitable and culturally rich society.
Scholarships for Women are financial aid programs designed to support women in their pursuit of higher education and to address gender disparities in various academic and professional fields. These scholarships aim to empower women by removing financial barriers and encouraging them to excel in areas where they have historically been underrepresented, such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), business, law, and leadership roles. By offering these opportunities, organizations, universities, and foundations contribute to closing the gender gap in education and the workforce, promoting equality and diversity in key sectors of society.
Many scholarships for women are specifically targeted toward fostering female participation in STEM fields, where gender imbalances still persist. Programs like the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and the Google Women Techmakers Scholars Program provide financial aid, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for women pursuing degrees in engineering, computer science, and related disciplines. Additionally, scholarships may also focus on women from underrepresented or marginalized backgrounds, further enhancing diversity and creating inclusive educational environments. These scholarships encourage women to break through barriers and succeed in traditionally male-dominated fields, which leads to greater gender equality in those industries.
In addition to field-specific scholarships, some programs focus on leadership and career advancement. For instance, organizations like the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and the International Women’s Forum (IWF) offer scholarships that support women in graduate studies, public policy, and entrepreneurship. These scholarships not only provide financial support but also empower women to become leaders and change-makers in their communities and industries. Overall, scholarships for women are vital in leveling the playing field, creating opportunities for women to succeed academically and professionally, and driving gender equality across various sectors.
Needs-Based Scholarships are financial aid programs awarded to students based on their demonstrated financial need rather than merit or academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to help students from low-income families access higher education by covering costs such as tuition, fees, books, and sometimes even living expenses. Needs-based scholarships ensure that a student’s financial situation does not become a barrier to pursuing an education, especially in countries where the cost of higher education is substantial. These scholarships are often funded by governments, universities, and private organizations committed to making education accessible to all.
The process of determining eligibility for needs-based scholarships usually involves assessing a student’s financial background, often through documentation like tax returns, household income statements, or the completion of a financial aid application such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in the United States. Once eligibility is established, the scholarship amount may be tailored to cover the gap between a family’s financial capacity and the total cost of attendance. These scholarships are particularly beneficial for students who might not qualify for merit-based scholarships but have the potential to thrive academically if given the opportunity and financial support.
Needs-based scholarships not only make higher education more inclusive but also play a crucial role in fostering social mobility. By removing financial barriers, these scholarships allow students from disadvantaged backgrounds to attend prestigious universities, improve their career prospects, and break the cycle of poverty. They often come with additional resources like mentoring or academic support services, ensuring that students not only receive financial assistance but also have the tools to succeed throughout their educational journey. Ultimately, needs-based scholarships help create a more equitable society by giving all students the chance to succeed regardless of their financial circumstances.
