United Kingdom Graduate Study Scholarships
Commonwealth Scholarships
Commonwealth Scholarships are awarded to talented individuals with the potential to make a positive impact on the global stage. Commonwealth Scholarships are managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK. As part of the UK’s ongoing commitment to the Commonwealth, each year, around 700 students are given the chance to undertake postgraduate degrees with UK universities. If you are from a Commonwealth country and believe you could make a difference in the world but you can’t afford to fund your UK studies on your own, then you could be the ideal candidate for a Commonwealth Scholarship.
Chevening Scholarships
Of all the UK scholarships on offer to international students, Chevening is one of the most prestigious and competitive. As well as offering fully-funded master’s degrees, it is a unique opportunity for the next generation of leaders, influencers, and decision-makers to develop a relationship with the UK that will grow throughout their careers.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
The Gates Cambridge Scholars program was established in 2000 by a substantial gift from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Its aim is to create a network of outstanding scholars from around the world who will become leaders in addressing global problems related to health, social equity, technology, and learning. The scholarships cover fees at Cambridge, living costs, and other necessities as well as a contribution toward airfare. The annual value of the scholarship is in excess of $30,000 and may be renewed for four years for students wishing to obtain a PhD. There are about 225 scholars from 50 countries studying in Cambridge at any one time and who pursue the full range of subjects available at the university. Scholarship candidates are selected based on demonstrated academic and intellectual achievement and are students who “have leadership potential and a commitment to serve their communities.” Candidates may study for a graduate degree in any field or a second bachelor’s degree but should have a convincing academic reason for pursuing their studies at Cambridge. In addition, candidates must be admitted to Cambridge University through the normal admission procedures. There is no citizenship requirement for this award. This scholarship is highly competitive.
Deadline is in October; other deadlines vary
George J. Mitchell Scholarship
The Mitchell scholarship is a national competitive fellowship sponsored by the U.S.–Ireland Alliance. The Mitchell Scholarship, named to honor the former U.S. Senator’s pivotal contribution to the Northern Ireland peace process, is designed to introduce and connect generations of future American leaders to the island of Ireland, while recognizing and fostering leadership and a commitment to public service and community. Twelve Mitchell Scholars between the ages of 18 and 30 are chosen annually to study in any discipline offered by higher education institutions in Ireland and Northern Ireland. The Mitchell Scholarship provides tuition, housing, a living expenses stipend, and an international travel stipend. Prospective scholars apply directly to the U.S.–Ireland Alliance which administers the Mitchell Scholarship program. A preliminary elimination will be made based on submitted written materials. A selection committee will determine – based on the student’s academic transcripts, a brief essay prepared by the applicant, and the applicant's references – those students who will be invited to Washington, D.C., for an interview before the selection committee. The U.S.–Ireland Alliance will pay round-trip transportation costs for applicants who are invited to be interviewed. This scholarship is highly competitive.
University sponsorship needed
Rhodes Scholarship
Thirty-two scholarships are awarded for two or three years of study at Oxford University in a field of the candidate’s own choosing. The scholarship pays for academic fees, plus an allowance to pay for travel fares and personal expenses. Candidates should have a GPA of 3.75 or higher and are selected based on intellectual distinction, leadership, and service. This scholarship is highly competitive.
University sponsorship needed
The Marshall Scholarship
Marshall Scholarships finance young Americans of high ability to study for a graduate degree in the United Kingdom for 1-2 years. Up to 50 scholars are selected each year to study at the graduate level at a UK institution in any field of study. As future leaders, with a lasting understanding of British society, Marshall Scholars strengthen the enduring relationship between the British and American peoples, their governments and their institutions. Marshall Scholars are talented, independent and wide-ranging, and their time as Scholars enhances their intellectual and personal growth. Their direct engagement with Britain through its best academic programmes contributes to their ultimate personal success. Candidates must have a undergraduate minimum GPA of a 3.7 or higher and must be graduating undergraduate studies prior to the start of the Marshall Scholarship. Candidates must be endorsed by Hofstra University.
University sponsorship needed