Study in the UK – Scholarship Overview
The United Kingdom (UK) is one of the most prestigious study destinations for Bangladeshi students because of its globally ranked universities, shorter degree duration, and strong career opportunities. The UK does offer scholarships for international students, but most scholarships are partial funding or tuition waivers, especially for Bachelor’s and taught Master’s programs. Fully funded scholarships are available mainly through government or highly competitive leadership-based programs.
Types of Scholarships in the UK
1. Chevening Scholarship (Fully Funded)
The Chevening Scholarship is the most famous fully funded scholarship in the UK, funded by the UK Government. This scholarship is mainly for one-year Master’s programs and focuses on future leaders and professionals.
Coverage:
- Full tuition fee
- Monthly living stipend: approx. 1,300 – 1,500 GBP/month
- Round-trip airfare
- Visa application cost
Eligible Majors: Almost all Master’s majors except some restricted medical/research programs
Apply here: Chevening Official Website
2. Commonwealth Scholarship (Fully Funded)
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission offers scholarships for students from Commonwealth countries like Bangladesh. This scholarship is mainly for Master’s and PhD programs.
Coverage:
- Full tuition fee
- Monthly living allowance: approx. 1,300 – 1,600 GBP/month
- Airfare support
- Thesis/research support (for PhD in some cases)
Eligible Majors: Development Studies, Engineering, Health, Education, Environmental Science
Apply here: Commonwealth Scholarship Official Website
3. GREAT Scholarship (Partial)
The British Council and UK universities jointly offer the GREAT Scholarship. This is mainly a partial scholarship for Master’s students.
Coverage:
- Minimum 10,000 GBP tuition fee reduction
Usually does NOT provide:
- Monthly living expenses
- Airfare
Eligible Majors: Business, Law, Engineering, Arts, Science (depends on university)
Apply through participating university website
4. University Scholarships (Partial / Merit-Based)
Top universities like University of Manchester, University of Birmingham, and many others offer scholarships for international students. These are the most common scholarships for Bangladeshi students.
Coverage:
- Tuition fee waiver:
- 2,000 GBP
- 5,000 GBP
- 10,000 GBP
- 25% – 50% tuition reduction
**Most university scholarships mainly reduce tuition fees only.
Eligible Majors: Business, IT, Engineering, Health, Arts (almost all majors)
Apply through university website
Who Can Apply (Eligibility & Qualification)
UK scholarships mainly depend on academic performance, English proficiency, and leadership profile. Students first apply to universities and then apply for scholarships if required. Some scholarships are automatic, while government scholarships need separate applications. Academic records, IELTS score, SOP, and financial preparation are very important for both admission and visa approval.
Eligibility & Qualification:
- Must be an international student
- Strong academic result (usually 70–85%+)
- IELTS usually required (6.5–7.0)
- Bachelor degree for Master’s / Master’s for PhD
- Work experience required for some scholarships (especially Chevening)
Required Documents (University + Scholarship)
Documents:
- Academic certificates & transcripts
- Passport copy
- IELTS / TOEFL
- CV / Resume
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Recommendation letters
- Work experience certificate (if required)
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Steps:
- Choose university and course
- Apply online through university website
- Apply for scholarship (if separate application required)
- Upload all documents
- Receive offer letter
- Accept admission offer
- Wait for scholarship decision
Visa Required Documents (Student Visa)
Visa Documents:
- Valid passport
- CAS letter (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)
- Financial proof
- IELTS result
- TB test report
- Visa application form
Visa Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Steps:
- Receive CAS letter
- Prepare financial documents
- Apply online for student visa
- Submit biometrics
- Wait for visa decision
- Receive visa and prepare for travel
Cost Overview 2026
The UK is expensive, but shorter degree duration helps reduce total cost.
Total Estimated Cost (First Year):
- Tuition: 15,000 – 40,000 GBP/year
- Living: 12,000 – 18,000 GBP/year
- Other costs: 2,000 – 5,000 GBP
Total: approx. 30,000 – 60,000 GBP/year
With Partial Scholarship
- Tuition reduction significantly lowers total cost
- Living expenses are usually still student responsibility
With Full Scholarship
- Tuition fully covered
- Living stipend provided monthly
- Airfare often included