How to Apply for a Postgraduate International Scholarship

An international scholarship is a sought-after funding opportunity for prospective overseas postgraduate students who want to study at a university in the UK, or indeed anywhere else in the world. This kind of award will fully or partially cover tuition fees, which can be significantly higher for international students. Some even provide a contribution towards other study and living costs for the duration of the recipient’s programme.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to how to apply for an international scholarship:

Step one

Begin your research into scholarship opportunities early and ensure you are aware of all relevant deadlines for applications. Which scholarships will you be eligible for? You may have to contact some course providers directly for more specific information on their available scholarships for your year of entry.

Step two

The majority of scholarship applications exist in the form of a relatively simple form which you will have to complete. The appropriate forms are usually available to download from the law school or scholarship provider’s website. Sometimes you may have to send a request in order to obtain a form. The person or department you will need to contact for this will be given on the website.

Most scholarship application forms will ask you to provide details of nationality, current residency English language ability (defined by English test results) and your academic history. There will also be sections in which you will have to describe your academic achievements, the reasons why you want to study your chosen postgraduate programme and why at that particular institution. Depending on the type of scholarship you are applying for, such as a Chevening Scholarship, you may have to provide other parts of information according to the country you are from.

You will also have to provide academic references, usually from a university tutor who has worked with you recently. With this in mind, it is a good idea to request your references as early as possible so as not to delay your application. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. 

Step three

Once you have answered all questions on the form and ensured it’s complete, it’s time to send off your application (post or email; each institution will specify) and wait…

Successful applicants will then be notified via a telephone call or email. International scholarships are extremely popular, so unfortunately you may not always be contacted if you have unsuccessful in your application. The good news is that you can usually apply for several scholarships to give you more chance of receiving some form of funding.