Are you an ambitious student looking to pursue a postgraduate degree in the United Kingdom? The British Council Study UK GREAT Scholarships 2026/2027 provide an incredible opportunity to achieve this goal.
Through this program, international students from 18 eligible countries can receive £10,000 towards their tuition fees for a one-year taught postgraduate course at any participating UK university.
British Council Study UK GREAT Scholarships 2026/2027
The British Council Study UK GREAT Scholarships 2026/2027 aim to support academically talented students who wish to study in the UK. The program, developed in partnership between the UK government’s GREAT Britain Campaign, the British Council, and several UK higher education institutions, helps international students access high-quality education in one of the most respected academic destinations in the world.
For the 2026–2027 academic year, over 140 scholarships will be awarded by more than 60 universities across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Each award provides a financial contribution of £10,000, which goes directly towards tuition fees for a one-year taught postgraduate program.
British Council Study UK GREAT Scholarships 2026/2027 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Study Destination | Over 60 UK Universities |
| Scholarship Type | Postgraduate (Taught Master’s) |
| Funded By | British Council and the UK Government’s GREAT Britain Campaign |
| Eligible Countries | 18 Countries (Listed Below) |
| Scholarship Value | £10,000 Towards Tuition Fees |
| Number of Scholarships | 140+ Awards |
| Application Deadline | Varies by Institution |
| Study Duration | One Year |
| Academic Session | 2026–2027 |
What Is the GREAT Scholarship All About?
The British Council Study UK GREAT Scholarships were established to strengthen educational ties between the UK and countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. This initiative enables talented international students to gain access to world-class universities and diverse academic programs in the UK.
Each scholarship is jointly funded by the UK government’s GREAT Britain Campaign and the British Council, together with participating universities. The program’s core goal is to promote cultural exchange, academic collaboration, and future leadership development.
Scholars are not only given financial support but also benefit from exclusive events, networking opportunities, and access to a growing community of GREAT alumni.
Participating Countries
For the 2026/2027 academic year, the GREAT Scholarships are available to students from the following countries:
- Bangladesh
- China
- Egypt
- France
- Ghana
- Greece
- India
- Indonesia
- Italy
- Kenya
- Malaysia
- Mexico
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Spain
- Thailand
- Turkey
- Vietnam
These countries were carefully selected to reflect the UK’s global education partnerships and commitment to supporting the development of future leaders around the world.
Benefits of the British Council Study UK GREAT Scholarships
The GREAT Scholarships offer several key benefits that make them one of the most attractive funding opportunities for international postgraduate students:
- Financial Support
- Each award is worth £10,000, which is applied directly towards tuition fees. This significantly reduces the financial burden associated with studying in the UK.
- Access to Prestigious Universities
- Scholars can study at any of the over 60 participating universities spread across all four regions of the UK. These include top-ranked institutions renowned for academic excellence and research innovation.
- Networking Opportunities: All GREAT scholars are invited to participate in special events, including:
- A welcome event in the first semester to meet other scholars and program organizers.
- A networking event in the second semester to engage with peers, alumni, and industry professionals.
- Cultural Exchange
- The program encourages cross-cultural understanding and global cooperation, allowing students to experience British culture while sharing their own backgrounds and experiences.
- Global Recognition
- Earning a UK postgraduate degree with the support of a GREAT Scholarship enhances one’s academic profile and career prospects worldwide.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the British Council Study UK GREAT Scholarships 2026/2027, applicants must meet the following general requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of one of the 18 eligible countries listed above.
- Academic Qualification: Must have completed an undergraduate degree that qualifies them for postgraduate study in the UK.
- University Admission: Must apply for and secure admission to a one-year taught postgraduate program at a participating UK university.
- English Proficiency: Must meet the English language requirements of the chosen university (usually IELTS or TOEFL).
- Motivation: Should demonstrate a strong commitment to their field of study and explain how studying in the UK will help achieve their career goals.
- Leadership Potential: Preference is given to candidates who show the potential to contribute to their home country’s development after graduation.
Note: Since application processes and requirements may vary slightly across universities, applicants should always check specific eligibility criteria on their chosen institution’s website.
How to Apply
The application process for the GREAT Scholarships 2026/2027 is straightforward but highly competitive. Each participating university manages its own selection and application procedures.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Choose a Participating University: Visit the official British Council GREAT Scholarships webpage to view the list of participating universities and the scholarships available to students from your country.
- Check Eligibility and Course Options: Review each university’s entry requirements, available programs, and scholarship criteria before applying.
- Apply for Admission: Submit your postgraduate application to your chosen university and ensure you meet all academic and language requirements.
- Submit Scholarship Application: Once your university application is submitted, apply separately for the GREAT Scholarship through the university’s scholarship portal (if required).
- Wait for Notification: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly by the university.
Important: The application deadlines vary by institution, so it is advisable to apply early to increase your chances of selection.
Selection Process
The selection process for the GREAT Scholarships typically involves the following stages:
- Academic Review: Universities assess candidates based on academic merit and alignment with the scholarship’s objectives.
- Motivational Statement: Applicants may be required to submit a personal statement detailing how their postgraduate study aligns with their career goals.
- Interview (if applicable): Some institutions may conduct virtual or in-person interviews to evaluate communication skills and motivation.
- Final Selection: Successful candidates are notified directly by the respective universities.
Why Study in the United Kingdom?
The United Kingdom remains one of the world’s most popular destinations for higher education. Choosing to study in the UK offers numerous advantages:
- World-Class Education: Home to top-ranked universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Edinburgh.
- Shorter Program Duration: Most postgraduate courses are one year long, allowing students to save time and costs.
- Cultural Diversity: A rich, multicultural environment that welcomes students from across the globe.
- Strong Career Prospects: UK degrees are internationally recognized, offering excellent career opportunities.
- Research and Innovation: The UK is a leader in global research, contributing to scientific, technological, and social advancements.
For more information and to apply, visit the official webpage: https://studyuk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships
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