GREAT Scholarships 2026–2027: Over 140 UK Master’s Awards Open to Students From 18 Countries
The United Kingdom has reopened one of its most globally competitive study opportunities — the GREAT Scholarships 2026–2027, offering more than 140 master’s scholarships across 60+ universities in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Run by the British Council’s Study UK campaign in partnership with UK universities and the UK government’s GREAT Britain campaign, this programme supports talented students from 18 eligible countries, giving them a direct pathway to world-class postgraduate education in the UK.
A Global Study Opportunity With Strong Financial Support
Each GREAT Scholarship provides £10,000 toward tuition fees for a one-year, full-time master’s degree. The award reduces the financial burden on international students, helping them focus on academic success rather than tuition pressure.
Although the grant covers part of the tuition fee, students are advised to prepare additional funds for remaining fees and living expenses during their study year.
Beyond funding, scholars benefit from two exclusive UK-based events:
- A welcome event in the first semester
- A networking conference in the second semester
These gatherings allow scholars to build friendships, exchange academic interests, and form long-term international connections.
Who Can Apply? — Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must satisfy the following conditions set by the British Council and participating universities:
- Be both citizens and residents of one of the eligible countries.
- Hold a recognized undergraduate degree in a relevant field.
- Meet the English language requirements of the chosen UK university.
- Demonstrate interest and motivation in their intended course of study.
- Be willing to attend mandatory GREAT Scholarship events in the UK.
- Commit to acting as a GREAT Scholarships ambassador, maintaining contact with the British Council and host university.
- As alumni, be open to mentoring future applicants about studying in the UK.
Students must also check individual university pages, as each institution may have additional course-specific requirements.
Eligible Countries for the 2026–2027 GREAT Scholarships
Students must be citizens and residents of one of the following 18 countries:
Bangladesh, China, Egypt, France, Ghana, Greece, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, Vietnam.
How to Apply for the GREAT Scholarships
Applications are submitted directly to each UK university, not through a central portal. The process involves:
- Visiting the GREAT Scholarships information page and selecting a participating university for your country.
- Reviewing the chosen university’s scholarship page for:
- Eligible master’s courses
- Application instructions
- Additional requirements
- Applying for admission to a suitable master’s programme.
- Submitting any required GREAT Scholarship application or supporting statement.
- Checking the exact application deadline, which varies by university.
- Awaiting notification from the university. Successful applicants receive funding directly, with the £10,000 deducted from their tuition fees.
Students may apply to multiple universities as long as they follow each institution’s rules and deadlines.
Why the GREAT Scholarships Matter
The GREAT Scholarships programme provides a life-changing opportunity for students seeking access to high-quality UK postgraduate education at a reduced cost. With its broad range of participating universities and diverse subjects — from arts and humanities to STEM and healthcare — the scheme empowers students worldwide to pursue advanced knowledge in a globally respected academic environment.
The networking and welcome events help scholars build lasting relationships, collaborate on international projects, and gain insights that support academic, professional, and personal growth long beyond graduation.
You may also like to read: Rasheedat Ajibade Foundation Opens 2025 Back 2 School Scholarship for Nigerian Students
