Contrary to popular belief, studying in the UK doesn't always have to break the bank. This blog will explore various avenues and strategies for Indian students to study in the UK for free or at minimal costs. Provided you are qualified and fulfil the eligibility criteria, many different types of scholarships to study in the UK can cover living expenses, travel costs, and full fee waivers.
SI-UK offers free application support to Indian students who want to study abroad. Contact us today for a free consultation online or in person.
How to Study in the UK for Free with Scholarships and Funding
1. Research Scholarships and Grants
Many UK universities offer scholarships specifically designed for international students, including those from India. These scholarships often cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. Also, keep an eye on governmental scholarships such as the Chevening Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarships, and the GREAT scholarships, which are aimed at Indian students.
Here are five examples of scholarships that can help you study abroad at no cost:
- Clarendon Fund Scholarships at the University of Oxford: This scholarship covers the full tuition and college fees, along with a grant that will cover the full living costs while studying at the University of Oxford. The Clarendon Fund offers 140 new scholarships every year for degree courses to all international students.
- Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan: This scholarship is for Indian students who only plan to do a one-year taught master’s or three-year doctoral degree. The selection for this scholarship is made in India by the Ministry of Human Resource Development.
- Gates Cambridge Scholarship: One of the most prestigious scholarships in the world, this scholarship is awarded by the University of Cambridge to all international students who want to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge.
- Goa Education Trust Scholarship: Available for Indian nationals with an Indian passport, this scholarship covers tuition fees for a master’s degree in the UK and provides up to £25,000 in living expenses. It is only awarded for programmes starting in September/October, and preference is given to Goan residents.
- Rhodes Scholarships at the University of Oxford: One of the oldest scholarships in the world, Rhodes scholarships are postgraduate scholarship awards for outstanding students. A class of 89 students from limited countries is selected each year, and a Rhode scholar must take an MBA or Master’s of Financial Economics in the second year.
2. Explore Fully Funded Courses
Some UK universities offer fully funded courses, particularly in research-intensive fields. These courses often come with a stipend for living expenses, making it an excellent option for those seeking financial support.
3. Consider Work-Study Programs
The UK permits international students to work part-time during their studies. Look for university work-study programmes, which allow you to gain work experience while covering your expenses.
4. Look for Financial Aid Services
Some universities have dedicated financial aid services that assist international students in finding suitable funding opportunities.
5. Check Out Research Opportunities
If you want to pursue a research-oriented career, consider enrolling in a PhD. Many UK universities offer fully funded PhD positions with opportunities for Indian students to contribute to ongoing research projects.
6. Tap into Alumni Networks
Connect with alumni from your desired university. They can provide valuable insights into scholarship opportunities, share their experiences, and may even offer guidance on how to secure financial assistance.
7. Participate in Exchange Programs
Some universities have exchange programs that allow students to study in the UK for a semester or more while paying the fees at their home institution. Explore these study options to experience studying in the UK without a hefty financial commitment.
Study Abroad in the UK
Study abroad in the UK advice for Indian students. To learn more about other scholarships that you might be eligible for, arrange a free consultation at SI-UK today.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 
