phd cost in uk for international students

• How Much Does a PhD Cost in the UK?
• Funding a PhD

Choosing to dedicate the next few years of your life towards a PhD is no light decision. Not only will it require you to dedicate an extensive amount of your personal time, but you’ll also need to consider how you’ll fund it. This raises the question, how much does a PhD cost in the UK?

The cost of a PhD can be divided into three key areas; tuition fees, living expenses and research expenditures. The combined cost of these are approximately  £20,000 per year  for UK students and can increase to over  £40,000 per year  for international students. A more in-depth breakdown of these costs can be found below. We’ve also compared these costs to other countries and outlined the various methods available to you to fund your PhD studies.

Tuition Fees

For UK ‘home’ students, the tuition fee for a PhD varies between £3,000 to £6,000 per academic year. For 2023/24 programmes, most universities opt for £4,712 per year within this range. Although this number may seem a little odd, it’s commonly adopted due to being the indicative rate set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) for UK universities.

International Fees

Unlike for UK applicants, the rates for international students don’t align with the indicative level set by UKRI. Following the implementation of Brexit, EU students now follow the same fee rates as other international students. International students will find that their tuition fees are higher than those of home students. For example, at the time of writing, the average annual PhD tuition charge at the University of Dundee is £4,825 for home students undertaking an Engineering PhD. This same average is £25,305 for international students.

International applicants will also find that the fee for PhDs in STEM subjects are greater than those in non-STEM subjects. For example, at the University of Bristol, a doctorate degree in Mechanical Engineering costs £25,300 per year whilst a doctorate in Medieval Studies costs £20,100 per year.

To summarise, international students can expect a tuition fee of between £16,000 to £25,000 per year, with an average of around £19,600 per academic year. Non-STEM subjects will generally be at the lower end of the range, whilst STEM subjects will be at the higher end of the range.

Part-time Fees

The above fees are based on full-time postgraduate study. If you’re doing a part-time PhD, you can expect the fee to be half of these amounts. Although this may appear to be a cheaper option, keep in mind that the average duration of part-time PhDs are twice that of full-time PhDs. Therefore, the total tuition cost will amount to the same value and the end of both courses.

Other Degree-related Costs

Research support fees.

If your research project requires a high use of consumables, equipment or other resources, you may have to support the cost of these through an additional annual fee. This additional annual fee, often referred to as either a ‘research support’ or ‘bench’ fee, often apply to laboratory-based STEM research projects. Bench fees vary between different projects, even those within the same field. Therefore, it is best to speak to the admissions team on a project-by-project basis to receive anything useful.

Another cost you will need to account for is travelling. As part of your degree, many supervisors will expect you to attend conferences, training workshops, or other collaboration opportunities. As a result, you will often need to travel to various destinations which aren’t always limited to the UK. Although some programmes will cover these costs, it’s not unheard of that some positions will expect you to fund this yourself. It’s impossible to put a value on this, as the extent of travel depends on each project. Therefore, it would be wise to speak with the admissions team and current PhD students. They can provide you with an accurate estimate and let you know whether the university will cover the expenses.

Overtime Period Fee

When you’re enrolled into a PhD programme, you will be given a period to complete your PhD within. This period is known as your ‘registration period’ and is usually 3-4 years for a full-time PhD and 6-7 years for a part-time PhD. If you’re given an extension due to not completing your PhD study within this time, you will need to pay an overtime registration fee. Although the amount depends on each university, the University of Leeds sets theirs as £290 for 2023/24.

Living Costs

From a 2022 survey of over 2,300 university students , the average living cost, covering expenditures such as rent, bills, food and recreation, was £924 per month. This equates to £11,088 per year.

Although this is an average cost, your true cost of living will depend on your location. Living in major cities such as London will draw significantly higher rent and travel costs than living in more rural locations. Although your living situation will in large be driven by the university you undertake your PhD with, you should factor it in when deciding which universities to apply to.

To put this into perspective, the survey average of £11,088 per year uses a rent average of £418 per month. In London, this average increases to £650 a month and can surpass £1,000 if staying in university halls or private student accommodation. This is supported by University College London (UCL) who state you should expect an average rent of £1,028 per month if living in private accommodation around their university.

Tip  – You can use this handy calculator for an estimated average cost of living for any UK university. All you need to do is select the university, and the calculator does all the rest.

If you’re an international student, you should factor in return flights back home. Although this may seem like a small expenditure compared to tuition fees and rent, they can add up quickly depending on the frequency and distance of your trip.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

How to Fund Your PhD

Studentships.

A studentship is a form of scholarship for doctoral students. They can either be partially funded, which cover tuition fees only, or fully funded, which also covers living costs through a ‘stipend’.

Studentships can be found in various places. Research Councils (RCUK) and European Social Fund (ESF) make funding available to university departments, who in turn make the funding available to doctoral students. Therefore, you will find that there are many postgraduate funding opportunities available to you, with the best places to look being the RCUK and ESF websites and the university departments themselves. External institutions which focus on research and development such as research trusts and charities would also be a useful place to look for a funded PhD.

Doctoral Loans

If you’re a UK student, you may qualify for a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan from Student Finance England. This form of financial aid is available for nearly all postgraduate research degrees undertaken in a higher education setting. They will allow you to borrow up to a total of £28,673 for 2023/24 courses .

Graduate Teaching Assistantships

Graduate Teaching Assistantships are a form of studentships which allow you to teach undergraduates as part of your research degree. This not only helps improve your academic skills, but it also enables you to receive a salary whilst you’re studying. As well as teaching assistantships, some departments also provide opportunities for demonstrations, marking papers, and tutorial support. The amount you can earn through these schemes will depend on how many hours you work and what agreements you make with your supervisor or course leader.

Working Whilst You Study – Part-time PhDs

A research student may opt for a part-time PhD as opposed to a full-time one. Although this would double the duration of their studies, it allows them to take on a part-time job to improve their financial situation. For students going down this route, it would be highly beneficial to pick up a part-time role in a position related to your industry. This will help refine your skills and increase your employability within this career role should you choose to pursue it after your degree.

If you’re an international student, keep in mind that you’ll likely be on a study visa. Therefore, there’ll be certain restrictions on what you can and can’t do alongside your study.

How Does This Compare to the Fees in Other Countries?

When considering the tuition fee of PhDs across different countries, the United Kingdom is generally considered as being in the ‘middle-ground‘ region.

A handful of countries offer PhD programmes for free. These include, but are not limited to, Denmark, Greece, Iceland, Norway and Poland.

The middle-ground region comprises countries such as Austria, Spain, Russia and New Zealand where postgraduate fees range from £1,400 to £4,000 per academic year.

The upper-end region comprises countries such as Hong Kong and the United States, where postgraduate tuition fees for a PhD student can go up to £33,000 per year.

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PhD tuition fees

Students enrolling on a postgraduate degree programme are charged tuition fees each year by Queen Mary University of London. The rate you will be charged depends on  whether you are assessed as a Home or Overseas student .

2024-25 Tuition Fees 

Home students beginning their PhD in September 2024 (or later) will be charged the following tuition fees:

• £4,786  for full-time research degrees 
• £2,393 for part-time research degrees 

2023-24 Tuition Fees 

Home students beginning their PhD in September 2023 (or later) will be charged the following tuition fees:

• £4,712 for full-time research degrees 
• £2,356 for part-time research degrees 

Tuition fees for Home students are set by UK Research Council (UKRI) and each year UKRI usually increases their fee and stipend levels in line with inflation. Further information can be found on the  UKRI website .

For international students (this now includes EU students), the tuition fees for 2023-24 and 2024-25 entry can be downloaded below:

2023-24 PGR Tuition Fees [PDF 436KB]

PGR 2024-25 Tuition Fees [PDF 64KB]

Some postgraduate courses may include an additional charge known as a fee band. This is to cover associated costs including equipment, laboratory consumables, specialist technical support, data processing, training and travel. You will be notified at the point of offer if a fee band is applicable.

Please note that fees are quoted at the full-time/part-time rate for the academic year you’ve applied for.  If you begin your study part-way through the academic year then your first tuition fee payment will be calculated on a pro-rata basis

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Information on how to pay

Instalment Plan

If your fees are more than £1,000 per year, you can pay in instalments. 

Fee status determines the rate of fees throughout studies at Queen Mary.

University Fee Regulations

Our regulations are updated every year, you can access a list of present and past University fee regulations here

• Postgraduate Research

PhD fees and costs

To study a PhD, you'll need to pay the cost of tuition fees, research support fees (such as materials used in a laboratory) and be able to cover your living expenses

A funded PhD studentship may meet all or part of these costs or you may be able to find funding for your self-funded PhD or research project.  The fees below are for the academic year 2023/24.

The fees stated in the table above exclude potential research support fees also known as ‘bench fees’. You will be notified of any fee which may apply in your offer letter.

* Please note that if you are undertaking a PhD within the Faculty of Science and Engineering the fee you pay, Band A or Band B, will reflect the nature of your research project. Some research projects incur a higher fee than others e.g. if you are required to undertake laboratory work. You will be informed of the fee for your programme in your offer letter.

^ Self-funded, full-time international students studying a PhD programme classified as Band A will receive a £2,000 reduction in their fees for the first year only.

Paying fees

The University requires payment of tuition fees at registration for the whole of the coming academic session or for the duration of a programme that is to be completed in less than a year. However, arrangements can be made for self-supporting students to pay their tuition fees in installments.

All instalments must be arranged with the Student Administration and Support Division. If you hold a scholarship or studentship, the awarding body should provide the Student Fees section of the Student Administration and Support Division with an acceptable guarantee of payment.

If you expect to be sponsored please ensure that your sponsors understand fully their responsibilities for your fees and maintenance and that they are prepared to honour them for the duration of your studies in Liverpool.

If your sponsor does not provide an acceptable guarantee of payment, or defaults on their guarantee, you will become responsible for the payment of fees yourself. Unfortunately, the University is not able to provide financial aid or waive fees for students whose arrangements for financial support fail during the period of their studies.

Transfering funds from abroad

International students will need to ensure that they can bring sufficient funds with them for living expenses, as well as for payment of fees, or have sufficient funds sent to them in instalments throughout the year. Students from countries which operate strict foreign exchange controls should make sure that permission can be obtained for the transmission of adequate funds.

Other costs

Research support fees.

Research support fees, also known as 'bench fees', cover the cost of consumable materials used in your study. Some MPhil/PhD and taught programme projects use up large amounts of materials or ‘consumables’. In these cases you may be charged an annual Research Support Fee to help cover the cost of this. Programmes which might incur a Research Support Fee are likely to be those which are laboratory-based. You will be notified of any fee which applies in your offer letter. Research Support Fees are the same for UK, EU and International students.

Study costs

We want to try and help you prepare for the day-to-day costs of studying. These might include things like photocopying in the library, buying textbooks and specialist equipment or going on field classes. We have put together tables of additional costs for guidance, for each subject area, including where departments make contributions towards these costs.

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International Students’ Guide to Pursuing a PhD

• Katie Baker
• November 28, 2023

Pursuing a PhD program in the UK as an international student is a serious undertaking, one that can feel exciting, daunting, and confusing in equal measure; however, for those in pursuit of academic excellence, there are few better options than the UK.  

The UK is steeped in rich educational heritage, is home to several world-renowned institutions, and has become a beacon for scholars across the globe, and perhaps most importantly, in this context, top UK universities are famous for offering fully funded PhDs to international students.

In this international students’ guide to pursuing a PhD in the UK, we will ease your transition into the UK academic landscape by covering everything from the entry requirements to how to apply for PhD programs to the forms of support you can expect to receive while you’re obtaining your doctoral title away from home. 

PhD Program Entry Requirements for International Students

As an international student, you will need to prove your readiness to undertake doctoral research in your subject area and demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and contribute to your chosen institution’s academic community.

The entry requirements may differ depending on your field of study and if you are applying for a fully funded scholarship. However, typically, these are the minimum requirements you will need to meet: 

Academic Qualifications – Generally, you will need a master’s degree (or equivalent) relevant to the program you are applying for. Some universities may accept a first-class or upper-second-class honours degree. Research Proposal -If you are proposing your own research plan (as opposed to applying for a pre-defined project), you will need to submit a research proposal with your application. Your proposal should cover the aims and objectives of your research and highlight your research abilities, including evidence of your academic achievements.

References & Experience – To support your application, you will also need two to three references from academics familiar with your work. It may also be beneficial for certain programs to have evidence of relevant work experience

Proof of English Language Proficiency – Your International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score should be a minimum of 6.5, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element of the exam. However, Humanities doctoral students may need a higher score of 7.0 – 7.5. Using the Test of English as a Foreign Language System (TOEFL), you will need a minimum score of 90.

Interview Attendance – To assess your suitability for a PhD program in the UK, you may be asked to attend an interview, but don’t worry; UK universities make it easier for international students by conducting interviews via video conferences. 

PhD Application Tips for International Students

The motto ‘Better late than never’ may work in some instances, but when pursuing a PhD program in the UK as an international student, this becomes an exception. You should begin the research and application process at least one academic year in advance to ensure all the prerequisites are met.

The research and planning phase will include researching universities, reaching out to prospective supervisors, and tailoring your personal statement and proposal for each research department. 

It also is important to start thinking about Visa requirements, how you will support yourself while you study in the UK, and if you will need to undergo health checks (depending on your home country) early in the application process. Regarding your funding, you will want to research grants, scholarships, and other funding opportunities specific to international students.

Once you have met all these requirements, you have made the first significant step towards becoming a doctoral student in the UK. Always ensure you have checked the specific entry requirements for the institution and research department you are applying to join; the entry requirements and fees can vary significantly! 

How to Choose a PhD Program in the UK as an International Student

The UK is home to 166 universities, of which, 103 are in the 2023 round-up of the Times Higher Education World Universities Rankings. You may feel spoilt for choice initially, but by asking the questions below, you will quickly shorten your list of options and find the best UK university to match your skills and career objectives. 

•     What is the calibre of the research quality?
•     Which universities have suitable PhD Supervisors on their faculty?
•     Which universities have the best funding opportunities for international students?
•     Which universities have state-of-the-art facilities relevant to your research area?

In addition to the unique strengths and weaknesses of each university in the UK, you will also want to consider which area of the UK you would be happiest studying in. Each campus has its own culture; choose one which aligns with your preferences.

Once you have a short list of universities and PhD programs you would like to apply for, you can start your application process by drafting your proposal and CV, gathering digital and paper copies of relevant documentation, preparing for your TOEFL or IELTS tests, finalising your application, and preparing for your entry interviews. Once you have accepted an offer, don’t hesitate before starting the Visa application process.

What Support is Available for International Doctoral Students?

Universities in the UK are well-versed in hosting international PhD students; they ensure a wealth of support services are available to make the adjustment period as smooth as possible. 

Most universities have dedicated offices for international students, which can provide expert guidance on everything from visas to accommodation to cultural integration to financial advice. If English isn’t your first language, you can also access free language support, which will help you polish your communication and academic writing skills. 

International students are also free to utilise mentoring and wellbeing services and career services or engage with research seminars, workshops, and conferences, designed to facilitate the integration into the academic community in the UK.

Final Thoughts

After reading this International Students’ Guide to PhDs, you may have noted that significant planning and research are required, but don’t let that hold you back from getting involved with world-leading innovative research in the UK.

The UK is at the forefront of cutting-edge research in several areas; from the sciences to the humanities, research in the UK is backed by significant investment. Furthermore, UK academic institutions are microcosms of cultural diversity; they offer a rich tapestry of perspectives capable of enhancing personal and academic growth.

Other benefits of joining a UK university to acquire your doctoral title include the doors to international career opportunities globally-respected UK PhDs can open and the shorter duration of the programs, in comparison to other countries. Few students who choose the UK as their academic oyster come to regret it!

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PhD fee structure

How fees are charged for full-time and part-time PhD programmes, as well as PhDs by publication.

Full-time study

For full-time study, you will pay a total of three or four full-time annual fees (as appropriate) for the period of prescribed study under supervision.

Part-time study

For part-time study, you will pay a total of  six or eight part-time annual fees (as appropriate) for the period of prescribed study under supervision. 

Part-time tuition fees are 50% of the full-time fee applicable for the programme of study in each academic session. 

Submitting your thesis early

If you submit your thesis early, you must pay the remaining years’ fees on submission.

PhD by publication

If you submit for a  PhD  by publication, you will need to pay an examination fee on submission.

PhD programme fees

PhD programme fees for each year of study can be found on our postgraduate research fees page.

Postgraduate research fees

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

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PhD Education / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

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• Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent); and
• Master's degree in a relevant subject - with an overall average of 60% or above, a minimum mark of 60% in your dissertation (or overseas equivalent)

Full entry requirements

Apply online

Please ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered.

Application Deadlines

For consideration in internal funding competitions, you must submit your completed application by 19 January 2024.

If you are applying for or have secured external funding (for example, from an employer or government) or are self-funding, you must submit your application before the below deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after this date has passed.

• For September 2024 entry: 30 June 2024

Programme options

Programme overview.

• 2nd in the UK for Education (Complete University Guide 2024).  
• The University of Manchester was ranked in the top 10 in the UK for Education research (overall GPA, REF2021).
• Learn with research-active experts in the field of education and work with highly diverse cohorts of students and staff.
• Contribute to improvements in the overall wellbeing of students, their families and communities throughout the world through research.

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The University holds regular open days, where you will have the opportunity to tour the campus and find out more about our facilities and programmes. On this day, you will find out more about the School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED) and meet academic and admissions staff who will be able to answer any questions you have.

For more information, see Open days.

We will be conducting our PGR virtual open week in October 2024. Find out about future events and postgraduate research sessions by signing up for our email alerts.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £6,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £3,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £10,750

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Your fees will cover the cost of your study at the University, as well as charges for registration, tuition, supervision, examinations and graduation (excluding graduation robe hire).

Payment of tuition fees will also entitle you to membership of The University of Manchester library, the Students' Union and the Athletic Union.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers, details of which can be found via the links below.

To apply University of Manchester funding, you must indicate in your application the competitions for which you wish to be considered. The deadline for most internal competitions, including School of Environment, Education and Development studentships is 19 January 2024.

All external funding competitions have a specified deadline for submitting the funding application form and a separate (earlier) deadline for submitting the online programme application form, both of which will be stated in the funding competition details below.

For more information about funding, visit our funding page to browse for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

• ESRC North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP) PhD Studentships - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• School of Environment, Education and Development Postgraduate Research Studentships 2024 Entry - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• China Scholarship Council - The University of Manchester (CSC-UoM) Joint Scholarship Programme - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries and Fragile States)
• President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Awards - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Trudeau Doctoral Scholarships 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (High Income Countries)
• School of Environment, Education and Development Enhancing Racial Equality (SERE) Studentship - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Humanities Doctoral Academy Humanitarian Scholarship 2024 Entry

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Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

International PhD Scholarships

King's College London is one of the world's leading research institutions with a diverse research community producing internationally recognised work. King's and the Centre for Doctoral Studies are dedicated to attracting, retaining, and developing top international postgraduate research talent to study alongside our renowned academic supervisors.

If you are interested in a postgraduate research degree (MPhil/PhD) at King's. there are a range of funding opportunities for international postgraduate researchers at King's, including:

• Joint PhD Programme Funding
• King's China Council Scholarships

You can learn more about these opportunities below. You can also access our postgraduate funding database to search all currently open funding competitions at King's.

Postgraduate Funding Database

A link to PG Funding database

Joint PhD Scholarships

Three scholarships are available for the 2023/24 academic year for students applying to joint PhD programmes run in collaboration with the University of Hong Kong, National University of Singapore or the University of Sao Paulo, with King's as their home institution.

The King's Joint PhD Scholarship provides full tuition fees, stipend and an annual research grant.

Download the guidance for the 2023/24 Joint PGR Scholarships .

Find out more about the Joint PhD Programmes available at the National University of Singapore, University of Hong Kong, and University of Sao Paolo by visiting the International Education webpage.

• Applications close 26 March 2023

King’s-China Scholarship Council PhD Scholarship programme (K-CSC) 2023-24

King's College London and the China Scholarship Council (CSC) hold an agreement to jointly fund PhD students to pursue research degrees at King's College London.

As part of the agreement, successful students will receive a scholarship that covers the tuition fee, an annual living allowance that includes overseas student health cover, a return airfare to London and visa application fees.

Please be aware that students funded through this scheme must abide by any additional terms and conditions set by the CSC. Scholars will be required to enter into a legally binding agreement with the CSC before they are able to take up the scholarship. If there are any significant developments that could affect/hamper a scholar's expected completion of the PhD, scholars are advised to get in touch with the Education Section in the Chinese Embassy.

A considerable number of K-CSC scholarship awards are available for the 2023-24 competition.

• Applications close 02 January 2023

Find full details on the KCL Funding Database.

Useful links

Postgraduate English Language Requirements

Find out more about our English Language Requirements.

• Postgraduate study

Find out how much your research degree will cost and our approach to the tuition fee-paying period.

View tuition fees alphabetically by department:

Tuition fees for postgraduate research degrees by department

Tuition fees for the degrees of Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Dental Science are available once you have applied and subject to you having met the admission and eligibility criteria.

In common with other UK universities, the University of Sheffield charges different tuition fees depending on whether students are classed as Home or Overseas for fee purposes.

How we assess your fee status

The tuition fee-paying period

The tuition fee-paying period is the period during which full annual tuition fees are payable. This varies between 3 and 4 years for full-time PhDs (6-8 years for part-time PhDs), depending on the source of funding and scope of the research project. 3.5 years is the recommended tuition fee-paying period for most full-time PhDs.

If you're still working on your project between the end of the tuition fee-paying period and the overall time limit (4 years for full-time PhDs, 8 years for part-time PhDs), you'll be charged a submission pending fee.

PhD projects should be designed from the start to ensure that they can be completed within the tuition fee-paying period, as this is the period during which most students also receive a stipend from their funder to support their living costs. You'll discuss and agree the appropriate tuition-fee paying period for your project with your supervisor during the admissions process. Precise details of both the tuition fee-paying period and the overall time limit for the degree will be included in the offer letter.

You can find more information about fee types and tuition fee-paying periods on our Research, Partnerships and Innovation webpages:

Periods of registration

I simply would not have been able to undertake this PhD without the university's funding and I am very grateful to be able to remain in the UK to continue my studies Krissy Moore, Department of Archaeology Doctoral Academy Award recipient

PhD scholarships

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PhD Handbook

Cost of Studyin...

Cost of Studying PhD in UK for International Students

Pursuing a PhD in the UK is a dream for many international graduate students. It is an excellent opportunity to conduct original and noteworthy research in a specific field or subject and to contribute to the advancement of knowledge.

The cost of a PhD in the UK for international students can vary depending on the university and the subject of study. However, international students can expect to pay higher tuition fees than domestic students. The tuition fees for a PhD in the UK typically range from around GBP 18,250 to GBP 35,500 (INR 18,25,000 to INR 35,50,000) per annum at top universities.

However, some of the universities in the UK precisely accept applications from international students having a 4-year bachelor's (Honors) degree. The cost of a Ph.D. can be separated into three key areas; tuition fees, living expenses, and research expenditures. And the combined cost of these is approximately INR 40,56,000 per year for international students. 

Yocket Premium can help you save money on your PhD in the UK. With Yocket Premium, you get access to a team of experts who can help you find the right Ph.D. program for your needs and budget. Yocket Premium also gives you access to a wide range of scholarships and funding opportunities.

So, if you're planning to go for a Ph.D. program in the UK, we have listed below all the needed details of the cost of doing a Ph.D. in the UK and other required information about the same.

Factors Influencing PhD Tuition Fees UK International Students

International students choose to pursue a Ph.D. in the UK due to many reasons including higher ROI and better education quality. Along with the course fees for Ph.D., students have to bear other expenses as well. Some of the important factors that influence the Ph.D. fees in the UK are mentioned below. 

UK universities Ph.D. fees

Studying at UK universities is a dream that most students have. Given the excellent quality of education and program structure, the fees for UK universities are pretty high. Students will have to spend up to INR 30,42,000  per year on Ph.D. costs UK.

Cost of living in the UK

Students who are pursuing a Ph.D. degree in UK will have to bear all expenses for different living conditions such as food, transportation, study resources, etc. 

Pre and Post Arrival costs to study Ph.D. in the UK

The Ph.D. price UK also contains several pre-arrival expenses such as Visa, Application fees, language test fees, etc. Even after arriving in the UK, students will have to bear the program fees for Ph.D. courses as well as the living costs.

What can Indian Students Expect While Studying in UK

Pre-Arrival Expenses to Study Ph.D. in UK 

Included in the Ph.D. fees in the UK for Indian students are the pre-arrival costs. Yes, even before entering the UK, students have to go through some expenses. Students need to understand the budget in areas such as Language Test Scores, Student Visas, flight tickets, etc. These are the one-time expenses that students have to incur before arriving in the UK. 

Flight Ticket 

English language proficiency exam fees.

• UK Student Visa Fees
• Health Insurance Fees

Let’s know these pre-arrival costs in detail:

International students traveling from their respective countries to the UK will have to book a flight to the destination airport in the UK. The cost of flight tickets to the UK is somewhere between GBP 415 to GBP 620 (INR 43,092 - INR 64,380) . 

The cost of a Ph.D. in the UK for international students will also include the IELTS and TOEFL exam fees. These English language proficiency tests are a must for international students belonging to non-English speaking countries. The cost for these exams would be around INR 15,200 . 

 UK Student Visa Fees 

International students also have to apply for their UK student visa to continue with their studies in the UK. The UK student visa application fee is around GBP 339 (INR 35,200) for international students. 

Getting a PhD in the UK is a prestigious achievement, but it can also be expensive. 

Yocket Finance makes it easy and affordable to finance your international education, so you can focus on your studies and achieve your goals.

Health Insurance 

For international students planning to study Ph.D. in the UK, it is important to get their health insurance. The health insurance that you get depends on the length of the Ph.D. program. International students can use the National Health Service ( INR 30,400 for 2 years ) if their program duration is more than 6 months. 

Post Arrival Costs to Study Ph.D. in the UK 

Once you have arrived at your destination location in the UK, you can begin your course. But for that, you have to bear two types of post-arrival expenses. 

Ph.D. Program Fee

To pursue a Ph.D. in the UK, an international student has to pay the annual program fee. To the average cost of a Ph.D. in the UK is around INR 40,56,000 for Indian Students.  

Cost of Living

Student accommodation in the UK stands up to around INR 15,21,000 every year. The expenses include the cost of housing, cost of food, transformation, research costs, etc.

Best Ways to Fund Studies in UK for International Students

Fee Structure for Top PhD Universities in UK 

The program fee in UK universities with most international students offering Ph.D. courses is one of the main factors that decide the cost of studying in the UK. The Ph.D. course fees UK range from INR 15,21,000 to INR 35,50,000 based on the location and the university of choice. Here we have given a basic overview of the average Ph.D. fee structure in some of the top universities in the UK. 

List of Top 10 Universities for PhD in UK for International Students

PhD Programs Fees n the UK

If you are planning to study Ph.D. in the UK, it is important to know the costs associated with each Ph.D. program offered by UK universities. Mentioned below are some details about the different Ph.D. programs and the annual fees that students have to pay.

Know How to Apply for PhD in UK from India

Cost of Living in UK for 2024

Apart from the program fees, students who are pursuing a Ph.D. in the UK will also have to bear their living expenses. These expenses include accommodation, personal spending, eating, and other lifestyle costs. So, the cost of living in the UK depends on the lifestyle choices that students make. Here are some factors for living costs in the UK.

: A Comprehensive Guide To Ph.D. In London For International Students!

Additional Costs

Some other expenses can be included in the total costs for a Ph.D. in the UK. Some of the details for additional costs are mentioned below. 

: A Complete Guide to Ph.D. in UK for International Students

From the Desk of Yocket

The cost of a PhD in the UK can be a significant investment, but it is also a valuable one. PhD graduates from UK universities are highly sought-after by employers around the world, and they have the opportunity to make a real impact on their field of study.

The following article provided information about Ph.D. tuition fees in the UK for international students. Applying for a Ph.D. program in the UK is pretty simple if you are familiar with the costs and expenses of living and studying in the UK.

However, there are several other factors to consider when applying for a Ph.D. in the UK, such as the eligibility requirements, the application process, and the different types of funding available. Yocket Premium can help you navigate the entire application process and ensure that you are well-prepared for your PhD journey.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cost of Studying PhD in UK

Is it worth it to pursue a Ph.D. in the UK?

Yes, the UK houses some of the most prestigious institutions in the world. So, the options are endless when it comes to Ph.D. universities in the country.

Is a Ph.D. in the UK an expensive program?

When compared to the universities in other countries, the Ph.D. programs in the UK aren't that expensive. On average, a student will have to spend about INR 18,27,000 per year on Ph.D. course fees.

What are the top universities offering Ph.D. courses in UK?

The top universities that offer Ph.D. programs in the UK are: 1) University of Cambridge 2) University of Warwick 3) University of Oxford 4) University of Southampton 5) Newcastle University

Can I get Ph.D. programs in UK for free?

No, there aren’t any free programs available in UK for Ph.D. students. However, UK universities provide scholarships and financial assistance to students who have good academic scores.

Sumeet Jain

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Entry requirements for international PhD applicants

At Sussex, you'll join a community of students and staff from more than 100 countries. We accept applications for postgraduate study from across the world.

General entry requirements for international students

At Sussex, our usual entry requirements for UK and international students are:

• at least an upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate honours degree or equivalent international qualification
• a Masters degree if you are applying for research degrees in the arts or social sciences, or an equivalent international qualification.

We may also consider professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing when making offers.

To find out which qualifications and grades we accept from your country:

• search for the PhD you want to study
• go to the Entry requirements section and select International requirements
• choose your country from the drop-down list.

You can also get advice from Sussex representatives in your country .

Specific entry requirements for international students

You must also meet our specific entry requirements for each research degree. These are listed with each PhD degree .

• the grade required for your course
• if you need to have an undergraduate qualification in a specific subject
• if you need to have a Masters qualification.

If you are an American student, federal regulations state that you must have a secondary school completion credential (high school diploma) or the recognized equivalent of a secondary school completion credential to be eligible to apply for Federal Student Aid. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid .

English language qualifications

All teaching at Sussex is in English. You must be sufficiently fluent in English to be accepted on to your PhD, and this may form part of your offer.

Find out more about our English language requirements

You can also apply to study our Pre-sessional English course .

For some research degrees we may ask you to attend an interview.

If you are an international student, you may be interviewed over the phone or via Skype.

Applying for a visa

If you are an international student, you may need to apply for a student visa to study in the UK.

Find out more about applying for a visa on the Student Hub .

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)

You need to apply for ATAS clearance if you are not a national of an European Area (EEA) country or Switzerland, and you are applying for a science or engineering-based PhD.

Find out more about ATAS on the Student Hub .

You might also be interested in:

• English language requirements
• how to apply for a PhD
• visa information on the Student Hub .

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Top ten most affordable universities for international postgraduates

Which universities offer the cheapest postgraduate courses for international students see the top ten universities that offer the most affordable courses in the uk..

Postgraduate education in the UK is already generally expensive if you're a domestic student, and it's even more so for internationals. It doesn't have to be though. If you're an overseas student looking for an affordable postgraduate course, see our top ten below. Fees are per academic year for overseas students starting a full-time postgraduate taught master’s degree in 2023/24. 

10. University of Bolton

Current cost: £12,450.

In 2023/24, international students at the University of Bolton pay the same annual fee for postgraduate courses as they do for undergraduate courses, with tuition starting from £12,450. Supportive and personalised teaching plus a multicultural location helps international students to settle in and make the most of their studies.

Search through postgraduate courses at the University of Bolton .

9. University of the Highlands and Islands

Current cost: from £12,420.

On top of affordable and diverse postgraduate study options, international students at the University of the Highlands and Islands also gain easy access to the spectacular Scottish Highlands if studying on campus. Courses range from those rooted in the landscape (Coastal and Maritime Societies and Cultures, History of the Highlands and Islands) to those seeking a sustainable future (Net Zero Communities).

Search through postgraduate courses at the University of the Highlands and Islands .

8. University of Suffolk

Current cost: from £12,150.

Set on the stunning Ipswich waterfront, the University of Suffolk is one of the UK’s newest universities, established in 2007 and awarding its own degrees since 2016. With a modern and entrepreneurial focus, it seeks to equip students with the skills and attributes to succeed in a changing world. International postgraduates are charged the same fee as undergraduates in 2023/24, depending on course type.

Search through postgraduate courses at the University of Suffolk .

7. Plymouth Marjon University

Current cost: £12,000.

Master’s specialisms at Plymouth Marjon University include Education and Teaching, plus Sport and healthcare related courses. A small uni, it provides good access to supervisors, and the campus provides all that students require.

Search through postgraduate courses at Plymouth Marjon University .

6. Leeds Trinity University

Current cost: from £11,500.

Leeds Trinity University has a strong focus on employability, running a year-round programme of workshops and employer events for students. The uni’s networks include over 3,000 employers across the UK and overseas, which could boost employment opportunities for international students on graduation.

Search through postgraduate courses at Leeds Trinity University .

5. Liverpool Hope University

Current cost: from £11,400.

Alongside affordable tuition fees for international students, Liverpool Hope University offers a range of enticing postgraduate courses to help boost your career prospects. As a student of the university, you'll be able to enjoy a peaceful campus life while living near to the thriving city of Liverpool.

Search through postgraduate courses at Liverpool Hope University .

4. Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts

Current cost: from £10,600.

The MA in Professional Practice: Theatre and Drama Facilitation is a work-based learning course seeking to refresh your facilitation techniques with management tools and techniques. As well as online and interactive learning, intensive weekend workshops are held on campus in the UK.

Search through postgraduate courses at Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts .

3. Royal Veterinary College

Current cost: from £10,240.

The fees for the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) are just £10,240 for the year. RVC has both a central London campus and a more rural setting in Hertfordshire, meaning you can get the best of both worlds. You'll also have the chance to work with a fascinating selection of animals during your time there.

Search through postgraduate degrees at Royal Veterinary College .

2. Middlesex University

Current cost: from £8,000.

With one of the lowest fees in the UK for international postgraduate students, Middlesex University aims to equip you with the skills you need to fast-track your career after studying. Fees can be as low as £8,000, so as an international student, you can focus on your studies without worrying too much about breaking the bank.

Search through postgraduate degrees at Middlesex University .

1. University of Hull

Current cost: from £7,850.

In 2023/24 international students at the University of Hull will pay the same fees as UK/Home students for most full-time taught master’s degrees. This includes courses offered by the Faculty of Arts, Cultures and Education, and the Law School and Department of Politics. International students from over 100 countries attend the uni, and as a former UK city of culture, Hull has plenty to offer for those who come to the city to live and study.

Search through postgraduate degrees at the University of Hull .

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Studentships and doctoral training

Get a studentship to fund your doctorate.

UKRI studentships offer funding for doctoral research. They also offer you access to training, networking and development opportunities to help you build a research and innovation career.

Our expectations for research organisations, supervisors and students are set out in the statement of expectations for doctoral training .

You could get:

• a minimum stipend of £19,237 per year for your living costs, which is paid to you in regular instalments
• support for your tuition fees (minimum £4,786 per year)

The stipend is usually non-taxable and does not need to be paid back. Some research organisations may offer more if you study in London, or they or one of their collaborators might decide to top up the payment. This will be outlined in the studentship advert from the research organisation.

We normally pay the support for tuition fees directly to your research organisation.

The levels given here are for the academic year 2024 to 2025. UKRI’s approach to doctoral stipend and fee levels will be reviewed through the  new deal for postgraduate research .

Additional support for your doctoral studies

As a UKRI-funded doctoral student, you may be able to access additional funding to cover the cost of other related training and development opportunities.

This could include:

• conference attendance
• language training
• overseas research visits
• internships or placements with a non-academic partner

The availability of support will depend on the research organisation and the training grants they have on offer. You should contact the research organisation you are interested in applying to, to find out what you could get.

Extra support if you have a disability

If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.

You should speak to your research organisation’s disability advisor to assess your needs. They can help put the right support in place, including a DSA application if necessary. You cannot claim DSA directly from UKRI.

DSA helps to cover the cost of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result of a disability, mental health problem or specific learning difficulty.

The allowance covers:

• non-medical personal assistance
• specialist equipment
• extra travel costs
• general expenses

Find out more about DSA in our framework .

If you are a research organisation you can download claim forms and guidance for DSA .

Who can apply

Any prospective doctoral student wishing to study at a UK research organisation, including prospective international students, can apply for a UKRI studentship.

All UKRI-funded doctoral students will be eligible for the full award, both the stipend to support living costs, and home-level fees at the UK research organisation rate.

How to find opportunities

Many UK research organisations offer some form of studentship funding from UKRI. These opportunities will depend on the subject you want to study and will normally be advertised by the research organisations.

Research organisations may have additional opportunities that do not involve UKRI. UKRI supports around 20% of all UK-based postgraduate researchers. You should speak to the research organisation you are interested in to find out what studentships are available.

You could also consider using a specialist website like   FindaPhD  to look for opportunities.

When to apply

Research organisations set their own deadlines for applications.

Many open for applications early in the academic year and close in January or February. This is not a hard and fast rule. It is important that you check the deadlines for the research organisation where you want to study.

How to apply

You cannot apply to UKRI for a studentship. You must contact the research organisation you are interested in studying with and use their application process.

For doctoral students who are already studying with a studentship, there are opportunities to get additional funding to support placements that are separate from your doctorate.  Find training and development opportunities .

Last updated: 14 February 2024

This is the website for UKRI: our seven research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Let us know if you have feedback or would like to help improve our online products and services .

Cost of studying and living in the UK

Studying in the UK is good value for money and the average costs here are lower than in both the USA and Australia.

You will find that UK graduates are among the most employable in the world. In fact, seven in ten international students say that they are progressing further, being promoted quicker, and earning more because of their UK education.

Still, investing a considerable sum in your education does require careful consideration. Here are some details on the type of budget you are going to need to study in the UK.

How much does it cost to study in the UK?

Fees for UK courses vary depending on your study level and where in the UK you are studying.

Course fees

Fees for UK courses vary depending on your study level and where in the UK you are studying. For example, humanities and social sciences degrees tend to cost the least, while laboratory and clinical degree programmes tend to cost the most.

Undergraduate -

International undergraduate tuition fees vary from £11,400 - £38,000. The average cost is estimated to be around £22,200 per year.

Typically, undergraduate degree courses in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland last for three years or four in Scotland.

Postgraduate -

International postgraduate tuition fees vary from £9,000 - £30,000 . The average cost is estimated to be around £17,109 per year.

Many postgraduate degree courses in the UK can be completed in one year of full-time study. This has financial and career benefits. A one-year master’s programme usually has fewer and lower associated costs. It offers the option of faster entry or re-entry into employment than a traditional two-year master’s programme.

As tuition fees vary by course and institution, we recommend you consult the website of the university or college you are applying for detailed information.

In the UK (except London), budget for £54 per month on average for public transport.

Living costs

As an international student coming to the UK without dependants, you can expect to pay around £1300-£1400 per month in London or £900-£1300 in the rest of the UK to cover your accommodation, bills, groceries, and a range of other living expenses during your studies.

Average living costs to help you budget for your UK studies

• London: £848

• Rest of UK: £664

Note: these costs are based on non-catered single occupancy student halls. If you are interested in catered student halls, budget for more.

• London: £750

• Rest of UK: £554

Note: these cost is based on a room for one person in shared accommodation.

• London: £140

• Rest of UK: £80

• London: £155

• Rest of UK: £116

Note: check out our 8 top money-saving tips for international students in the UK to help you save money on groceries, among other things.

• London: £150

London average costs : Restaurant meal - £16, Takeaway coffee - £2.69

Rest of UK average costs : Restaurant meal - £15, Takeaway coffee - £2.50

• London: £103*

• Rest of UK: £54

* Full-time students from all over the UK receive a 30 per cent discount off standard tube and bus fares with a Student Oyster Card if they have a National Rail Card. Monthly student Oyster cards for Zones 1-2 cost £103.

• London AND Rest of UK: £18

• London: £20

• Rest of the UK: £15

Note: many gyms offer student memberships for around £15-20 per month throughout London and the rest of the UK.

There may be free or cheaper options in your halls of residence or at your university. We recommend that you do your research to find the best deal for you and what kind of plan you’re looking for.

The National Union of Students (NUS) revealed in November 2022 that 57 per cent of UK students experienced a rise in their cost of living by over £20 per week. Additionally, 25 per cent of students reported having less than £50 left over from their budget each month after rent and bills.

Check out our 8 top money-saving tips for students to learn how to save money during your studies.

Most students are allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week during term time.

Can I work in the UK on a student visa?

Many international students in the UK work part-time alongside their studies.

Many international students in the UK take a part-time job, work placement or internship alongside their studies. Most courses allow students to work for up to 20 hours per week during term time and this is not restricted to on-campus employment.

To find out more about the hours and types of work you can do, visit the UKCISA website .

The Graduate visa gives you two years to stay in the UK after your degree.

Graduate visa

There are many visa options for international students to stay in the UK and work after graduation. A new popular option is the Graduate visa which gives you two years to stay in the UK after successfully completing a course in the UK. Graduates must apply for this whilst living in the UK. The application fee is £822 , and you will also need to pay £624 for the Immigration Health Surcharge for each year you spend in the UK.

Other costs

If you study in the UK for more than six months, there are additional associated costs to consider.

UK student visa

• Your UK student visa , which will allow you to live and study in the UK throughout your course will cost you £490 . This is a one-off charge. Please note: if you apply for the priority or the super priority service, it will cost more.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

• As part of your student visa application, if you will stay in the UK and study for more than six months, you will need to pay a fee called an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) . This will give you access to the UK's National Health Service.
• The surcharge for a student visa will be a fee of £470 per year for each full year you are in the UK . Where your stay in the UK includes part of a year, you would be charged £235 for periods of 1-6 months and £470 for periods of 6-12 months. For example, if you are doing a 12-month master's course, you would be charged £705. This is because your visa will be issued for a total of 16-17 months (including up to one month before the course start date and four months after the course end date).
• The amount you have to pay depends on how much leave you’re granted. You can find out how much you will be expected to pay by using the fee calculator on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
• European students: if you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you may be able to apply for a refund for the cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Check the GOV.UK website to find out if you are eligible to do so. Please also note that deciding to do paid part-time work in the UK during your studies could impact your eligibility for a refund, so consider this before requesting the refund.

Student discounts are available in many shops.

8 top money-saving tips for students

From student discounts to shopping second-hand and free (to cheap) grocery giveaways - there is so much you can do to save money as a student in the UK.

More in this section

Student visas.

Most international students need a visa to study in the UK, which allows you to live and study in the UK throughout your course.

Finding somewhere to live

There’s a wide variety of safe and modern accommodation on offer for students in the UK. Most universities and colleges have dedicated accommodation teams.

Support while you study

Moving to the UK to study is exciting, but we know that getting settled into a new country can be daunting, too. Find out how and where to get support.

Scholarships and funding

Would you like to turn your dream of studying in the UK into a reality? There are many funding and scholarship options available for international students.

10 things to consider when choosing student accommodation in the UK

Book early, turn to social media for inspiration and other ideas on how to find your ideal student home in the UK.

EU students: you are welcome in the UK

A UK education offers top-quality, prestige, and global job prospects. Find out why more than 120,000 EU students choose to study in the UK each year.

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PhD students from Nigeria can still bring dependents to UK, says British High Commissioner

Dr. Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, stated that although some international students are prohibited from bringing dependents, those enrolled in PhD programs are still allowed to bring dependents into the country.

Montgomery shared this information during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

He mentioned that the policy change, which was implemented earlier this year, prohibits international students in higher education from bringing dependents to the UK.

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According to him, this decision was made to address the growing issue of many foreign students bringing dependents.

He noted that the unsustainable pressure on numerous universities due to the influx of dependents led to the introduction of these policy changes.

He pointed out that university Chancellors had raised concerns about the large student populations, specifically noting challenges such as limited accommodation, access to medical services through the National Health Service, and schooling for dependents.

Recommended reading: Canada: International students now allowed to work 24 hours per week to fund studies

Montgomery explained that the restrictions are not universal, highlighting that those pursuing long-term research degrees, such as PhDs or doctorates, are exempt from these limitations.

• “Those coming to the UK for doctorate can still bring their dependency but if you are coming to the UK with a study visa for an undergraduate degree, or short term master’s degree am afraid the rules have been changed.
• “People need to understand why this change was brought in, and it is a sensible change because we have a large higher education sector and most of these universities are in towns across the country.
• “I really like the demand but there are other factors at play in terms of schooling in the UK , the value of the Naira in the coming months will also determine how easy or hard it will be for many people to afford our education.
• “But I really hope that the number of people who bring dependents in UK may actually not be a majority, but a minority of people have tried to study in the UK so am hoping that the demand will be sustained,” he said.
• Earlier in January, Nairametrics reported that The UK government has recently introduced measures to restrict Nigerian and other international students from bringing their families as dependents while studying in the country, except in specific circumstances.
• It stated that these students will no longer be able to bring dependants with them unless they are on postgraduate courses that are currently designated as research programmes.
• The government under the new package said that it also removed the ability for international students to switch out of the student route and into work routes before their studies have been completed “to prevent misuse of the visa system.
• According to Sky News, this was made known by the UK Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, who said that this is part of the mechanism to reduce net migration.

Recommended reading: Only UK’s top-performing universities should sponsor international students – Report 

Cyrus Ademola

• Cyrus Ademola is a political and economy analyst with over half a decade experience in journalism, research-based oped, economic reportage and political analysis. His works have been featured on different media outlets, covering from politics to business trends, to crime and security as well as the real estate sector.

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Fully Funded Scholarships in UK for International Students

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Are you an international student searching for fully funded UK scholarships? Scholarships that offer full funding to cover your tuition fees and other expenses? Well, look no further! Fully funded scholarships in UK can allow you to pursue your dream education without financial constraints. With a wide range of fully funded scholarships for undergraduate international students in UK available, finding the one that suits your interests can be overwhelming. Explore your options and find the perfect scholarship to match your aspirations and academic goals. Don't miss out on this chance to secure funding for your studies - apply for one of these fully funded scholarships in UK for international students 2024 today!

Fully Funded Scholarships in UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities, attracting students from all corners of the globe. Pursuing higher education in the UK can be costly for international students due to the high cost of living. Fortunately, there are numerous fully funded scholarships in UK for international students 2024 available that cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other related costs. Here are the top 10 fully funded uk scholarships for international students 2024.

1. Chevening Scholarship UK 

Program duration: 1 Year Eligibility: Undergraduate degree, at least two years of work experience, and being a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country. Requirements: Minimum of 2:1 degree or equivalent, good spoken and written English, and leadership qualities. Award amount: Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, and other allowances. Institution: Brunel University, Cranfield University, Durham University, Newcastle University. Location: London, Cranfield, Durham, Newcastle Deadline: 7 November 2023 Where to apply: https://www.chevening.org/apply/

Chevening Scholarships offer the opportunity for exceptional up-and-coming leaders from any country to pursue a master's degree in the UK for one year. This fully funded UK master's scholarship for international students in UK does not have a specific type of candidate in mind but rather seeks individuals with a strong drive, innovative ideas, and the ability to influence change and take on leadership roles in order to shape a brighter future.

2. Rhodes Scholarship 

Program duration: 2 Years Eligibility: Students aged between 18 and 24 have completed their bachelor's degree and demonstrated leadership potential. Requirements: Outstanding academic record, proficiency in English, and leadership skills. Institution: University of Oxford Location: Oxford Deadline: 3 October 2023 Award amount: Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, and other allowances ‍ Where to apply: https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/applications/

The Rhodes Scholarship offers a transformative experience to exceptional individuals worldwide who aspire to study at the University of Oxford. This prestigious UK scholarship for international students is an opportunity to join a diverse community of passionate and talented individuals committed to positively impacting the world. Although applying for this fully funded scholarship in UK for international students can be challenging, it has empowered countless generations of young people to achieve their dreams. The Rhodes Scholarship welcomes applications from gifted students globally and encourages them to seize this life-changing opportunity.

3. Gates Cambridge Scholarship 

Program Duration: 4 Years Eligibility: Outstanding academic record and be admitted to the University of Cambridge. Requirements: First-class or high second-class honours degree, proficiency in English, and leadership skills. Institution: University of Cambridge Location: Cambridge Deadline: 4 March 2024 Award amount: Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, and other allowances. Where to apply: https://www.gatescambridge.org/apply/how-to-apply/

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship program was founded in 2000 when the University of Cambridge received a donation of $210 million from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This donation is the largest ever given to a UK university. The program welcomed its first group of scholars in October 2001 and has since awarded over 2,000 scholarships to exceptional students from over 100 countries. Every year, the program provides around 80 fully funded UK scholarships for international students who wish to pursue a postgraduate degree in any subject available at the university.

4. Clarendon Scholarship (University of Oxford) 

Program Duration: 1-2 years Eligibility: Outstanding academic record and be admitted to the University of Oxford. Requirements: First-class or high second-class honours degree, proficiency in English, and academic excellence. Institution: University of Oxford Location: Oxford Deadline: By December or January, depending on the course Award amount: Tuition fees, living expenses, and a travel grant. Where to apply: https://www.ox.ac.uk/clarendon/information-for-applicants/full-time

Clarendon Scholarships, one of the fully funded scholarships for undergraduate international students in UK, are a highly sought-after opportunity for outstanding graduate scholars seeking support for their studies. With these fully funded scholarships in UK for international students 2024, successful applicants can become part of a vibrant and multidisciplinary community at Oxford University. Clarendon offers over 200 new scholarships each year, providing opportunities for exceptional students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their academic ambitions. If you submit your application for a fully funded UK scholarship for international students before the deadline in December or January, you will be eligible for automatic consideration for Clarendon. 

5. Commonwealth Scholarship 

Program duration: 1-3 Years Eligibility: Citizens of a Commonwealth country who have completed their bachelor's degree. Requirements: First-class or high second-class honours degree, proficiency in English, and academic excellence. Institution: Durham University, Birmingham City University, Imperial College London, Keele University Location: Durham, Birmingham, Newcastle, London Deadline: July 2024 Award amount: Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, and other allowances. Where to apply:  https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/apply/

The Commonwealth Scholarship scheme is a prestigious award primarily aimed at supporting the UK's international development goals. This fully funded scholarship in UK for international students intends to attract exceptional talent to universities and contribute to sustainable development efforts in other countries. Through this fully funded scholarship for international students in UK, deserving students from the Commonwealth can pursue advanced studies in UK and become future leaders and innovators in their respective fields. Still curious, here’s a guide to Commonwealth scholarships .

6. Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships

Program Duration: 3 years Eligibility: International students who wish to pursue a full-time PhD research program at the University of Edinburgh. Requirements: Strong academic record with a minimum of an upper second-class honours degree or equivalent, language proficiency, research experience, and other academic achievements. Institution: University of Edinburgh Location: Edinburgh Award amount: Fully funded scholarship that covers the full tuition fees along with a stipend to cover living expenses and may also provide funds for travel and research expenses. Deadline: 3 June 2024 Where to apply: https://www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/postgraduate/international/other-funding/doctoral-college

This scholarship is available to international students who wish to pursue a full-time PhD degree program in UK at the University of Edinburgh. Established with a mission to foster innovation, dissemination, and curation among students, the university offers 30 fully funded scholarships in UK for international students to outstanding students each year. The primary objective of this fully funded UK scholarship for international students is to attract and motivate high-achieving students from around the world to pursue their research goals at the University of Edinburgh. 

7. Fulbright Scholarship 

Program Duration: 8 months - 2 years Eligibility: Citizens of a Fulbright-eligible country like Australia, New Zealand, etc and have completed their bachelor's degree. Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.0, proficiency in English, and academic excellence. Institution: Lancaster University, Loughborough University, London School of Economics. Location: Lancaster, Loughborough, London Deadline: 15 May 2024 Award amount: Fully funded tuition fees, living expenses, and a travel grant. Where to apply: https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org/apply

Fulbright is a prestigious, fully-funded scholarship in UK for international students designed to promote cultural exchange and academic collaboration between the United States and the United Kingdom. The program is administered by the US-UK Fulbright Commission, founded in 1948 with the mission of promoting mutual understanding and cultural exchange between the two countries. This fully funded UK scholarship for international students is highly competitive, and the application process typically involves several stages, including an initial application, interviews, and a final selection process. 

Download our free guide: Top 20+ UK scholarships for international students

Eligibility criteria and deadlines are included

8. Erasmus+ Programme

Program Duration: 1-year Eligibility: Citizens of an Erasmus+ program country and have been accepted into a master's program in Europe. Requirements: Good academic record, proficiency in English, and meeting the specific requirements of the host university. Institution: City University of London, Kingston University , University College London Location: London Deadline: 26 January 2024 Award amount: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and a travel grant. Where to apply: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/resources-and-tools/how-to-apply/where-to-apply

The Erasmus+ Programme is a European Union initiative that provides funding and support for education, training, youth, and sports activities. This fully funded UK scholarship for international students provides a unique opportunity for students and staff to gain valuable international experience. It helps to broaden their cultural horizons and develop their skills and knowledge in a new academic and cultural environment. This is one of the fully funded scholarships for undergraduate international students in UK that provides an opportunity to improve language skills, gain work experience, and build professional networks.

9. Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship 

Program Duration: 2 Years Eligibility: The Applicant must be a citizen of a World Bank member from a developing country and have been admitted to a master's program in a development-related field. Requirements: Bachelor's degree, at least three years of relevant work experience, and proficiency in English. Institution: London School of Economics and Political Science Location: London Deadline: 29 February 2024 Award amount: Tuition fees, a monthly allowance, travel expenses, and health insurance. Where to apply: https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships

The Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ WBGSP) is a fully-funded scholarship in UK for international students that provides opportunities for students from developing countries to pursue graduate-level studies at selected universities around the world. The JJ WBGSP scholarship is open to students from developing countries like Africa who are interested in pursuing master's degree studies in development-related fields such as economics, public policy, international development, and other related areas.

10. Imperial Master's Scholarships

Program Duration: 4 years Eligibility: Applied to Master's Program at Imperial College London, outstanding academic record and demonstrated financial need. Requirements: First-class undergraduate degree and IELTS score of 6.5 or higher. Institution: University of Surrey, Newcastle University Location: Surrey, Newcastle Deadline: 13 March 2024 Award amount: Full tuition fees and a living allowance of £16,000 per year. Where to apply: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/scholarships-search/postgraduate/

Imperial Master's Scholarships are designed to provide financial support to students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need and who are pursuing a master's degree at Imperial College London. This fully funded UK scholarship for international students covers full tuition fees and a living allowance of £16,000 per year for up to one year of study.‍

Next edition of amberscholar is here!

Pro tips for applying for fully funded scholarships in uk.

It’s important to look out for the eligibility criteria and other requirements while researching for fully funded scholarships in UK for international students 2024. You can go through this guide to scholarships in UK to know more about other scholarships! Here are some pro tips to apply for fully funded scholarships in UK! 

1. Start early 

Many fully funded fully funded scholarships for undergraduate international students in UK applications have early deadlines, so it's important to start your research and application process as early as possible. This will give you ample time to gather all necessary documents and materials and identify any potential challenges.

2. Focus on your strengths

When applying for fully funded scholarships in UK for international students 2024, it's important to focus on your strengths and highlight your achievements. Be sure to showcase your academic accomplishments, leadership experiences, and any other relevant achievements that demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the fully funded UK scholarship for international students.

3. Take advantage of resources

There are many resources available to international students, including scholarship search engines, academic advisors, and study-abroad offices. Be sure to take advantage of these resources, as they can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the application process for the fully funded scholarship in UK for international students.

4. Tailor your application

Each application for the fully funded scholarship in UK for international students is unique, so it's important to tailor your application to meet specific requirements. This may involve tweaking your personal statement, obtaining additional recommendation letters, or even retaking standardised tests. To know all what should be in a personal statement , check out our blog on the same.

5. Seek feedback

Before submitting your application, seek feedback from friends, family members, and academic advisors. This can help you identify any areas that may need improvement and can also provide valuable insight into how to make your application stand out.

Fully funded scholarships in UK for international students can be a fantastic way to help finance your education and achieve your academic and career goals. By doing your research and applying to relevant fully funded scholarships in UK for international students, you may be able to access financial support that can make all the difference in your academic journey. Remember to prioritise your applications, stay organised, and showcase your strengths and passions to increase your chances of success. We wish you the best of luck in your search for a fully funded scholarship in UK for international students and academic pursuits. 

Once you get to your desired university, you can find the perfect student accommodation in the UK . 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i get a fully funded scholarship in uk, how can i get 100% scholarship in uk, which university provides fully functional scholarships in uk, how hard is it to get a full scholarship in the uk, which country gives full scholarships to undergraduate international students.

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Cap overseas student numbers and scrap graduate visa, says report

Right-wing thinktank argues government, not universities, should be put in control of student visa numbers to ‘reduce the potential for abuse’.

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The number of international students in the UK should be capped and the graduate visa should be abolished immediately, according to a new report from an influential right-wing thinktank.

Universities where “there is evidence of sustained abuse” should also be prevented from being able to sponsor student visas at all, says the Centre for Policy Studies (CPS), which adds that the London-based satellite campuses of “provincial” universities should be subjected to particular scrutiny as they are said to offer master’s courses “of dubious quality”.

In the latest attempt to move the dial within government ahead of the release of the Migration Advisory Committee’s  report into “abuses” in the UK’s post study work visa  – which is widely expected to lead to changes in the regime – the Tufton Street-based group has outlined its proposed reforms in  Taking Back Control,  a report billed as a comprehensive survey of the immigration system.

It is co-authored by Conservative MP Neil O’Brien, who has become one of the biggest critics of the UK’s post-study work options, which he has derided as a “Deliveroo visa”, claiming many recipients  end up in low-paid, low-skilled work .

Scrapping the visa outright is therefore a central recommendation of the report. Instead, the authors suggest overseas students who want to stay in the UK post-study should be required to find “graduate-level jobs” that meet a certain salary threshold within a six-month grace period at the end of their studies.

The report notes that the MAC is conducting a review of the graduate route – due to be published on 14 May – but says “we should act immediately” to ensure any new rules are in place ahead of the September 2024 and January 2025 start dates for university courses.

Universities should also be held “accountable for their international students”, the report recommends, and “where there is evidence of sustained abuse”, which could include very high dropout rates, low attendance and a drop in academic standards, “they should be struck off the list of licensed study visa sponsors”.

“We should focus initially on reviewing the 18 satellite campuses of non-London universities in London, which are geared towards international students on master’s courses of dubious quality”, it says.

These universities should “reorient towards educating and training the local or regional population, rather than trying to educate the rest of the world”, the report adds.

It also recommends that the “arbitrary” target of attracting 600,000 international students a year – which was  first met in 2020-21  – is “substantially revised” to “focus on quality over quantity”.

“This will…move the education and business departments away from constantly calling for more migration while resisting attempts at selectivity and control,” CPS’ report says.

The recommendations are unlikely to be popular among the UK sector, which has mounted a defence of the graduate visa in recent days,  arguing it is important for the economic prosperity not just of institutions but the wider country .

“Student immigration is popular because the public believes in attracting the best and brightest students from across the globe, allowing them to study at Britain’s world-class universities, and then return home,” said Karl Williams, the thinktank’s research director and report co-author.

“Unfortunately, the reality is the routes are being abused – often the courses foreign students enrol on are low quality, dropout rates are high, and many students end up staying for the long term after their studies, often in low paid work.

“The reforms we outline will put parliament in control of the overall number of study visas issued, rather than effectively leaving it up to the universities. They will also reduce the potential for abuse – ensuring those who come to Britain on study visas are genuinely here to study, and not as a backdoor to full-time work.”

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