UK Government and British Council Launch GREAT Scholarships for Indian Master’s Applicants

The British Council has announced the launch of the GREAT Scholarships for the 2026-27 academic year, offering Indian students the chance to pursue postgraduate study at leading universities in the United Kingdom. Developed in partnership with the UK government’s GREAT Britain campaign and participating institutions, the scheme aims to strengthen educational ties between India and the UK while widening access to higher education.

For the upcoming academic year, twelve postgraduate scholarships will be made available to Indian candidates. Each scholarship will provide a minimum of £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year taught master’s course. The initiative is designed to support academically strong students who are eager to gain international exposure and specialised training in their chosen fields.

A wide range of subjects will be covered under the scheme, including business management, finance, marketing, psychology, STEM, design, humanities, law, and creative and performing arts. Notably, four institutions, such as the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Royal Northern College of Music, Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, and Norwich University of the Arts, will focus exclusively on creative and performing arts, offering programmes in music and dance.

Participating universities include Anglia Ruskin University, Queen’s University Belfast, Royal College of Art, University of Bristol, University of Dundee, University of Reading, University of Surrey, and UWE Bristol, among others. This diverse list highlights the breadth of opportunities available to Indian students across disciplines and institutions. The scholarships are co-funded by the UK Government, the British Council, and the participating universities. Officials emphasised that the programme not only provides financial support but also strengthens the UK-India education partnership. With the UK’s one-year master’s programmes, globally recognised degrees, and post-study work opportunities, Indian students can benefit from valuable international experience while saving both time and money.

Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director of Education India at the British Council, described the scholarships as emblematic of the strong partnership between the UK and India. She noted that the initiative supports talented students in developing global careers and contributes to the long-term strengthening of academic relations between the two countries. The GREAT Scholarships 2026-27, therefore, represent a significant opportunity for Indian students. By combining financial aid with international exposure, the programme opens pathways to world-class universities and advanced learning across a wide spectrum of subjects. It is a vital initiative that underscores the UK’s continued appeal as a destination for higher education and highlights the importance of global collaboration in expanding educational opportunities.

Editor’s Note:

The GREAT Scholarships 2026-27 present a valuable opportunity for Indian students aspiring to pursue postgraduate study in the United Kingdom. Organised by the British Council in partnership with the UK government’s GREAT Britain campaign and leading universities, the initiative reflects the strength of UK-India educational relations. A total of twelve scholarships will be offered, each providing at least £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year master’s course. The programme spans a wide range of subjects, from business, finance, psychology, STEM, law, and humanities to creative and performing arts. Several universities have a particular focus on music and dance, highlighting the breadth of opportunities available. Jointly funded by the UK government, the British Council, and participating institutions, the scholarships aim to widen access to UK higher education while reinforcing academic links between the two countries. With one-year master’s programmes, globally recognised degrees, and post-study work options, the UK continues to be a preferred destination for Indian students seeking affordable and internationally respected qualifications. As Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director Education India at the British Council, notes, the scholarships symbolise the strong partnership between the UK and India and support talented students in building global careers.

Skoobuzz believes the GREAT Scholarships serve as a vital pathway for Indian students to secure financial aid, gain international exposure, and access world-class universities. They stand as a significant initiative in unlocking educational opportunities abroad for 2026.

FAQs

1.What are the British Council scholarships for 2026–2027?

The British Council scholarships for 2025–2026 include programmes such as the GREAT Scholarships, the Commonwealth Scholarships, and other funding schemes run with UK universities. These scholarships help international students, including those from India, to study postgraduate courses in the UK with financial support for tuition fees.

2.How can I get a 100% scholarship in the UK?

Getting a 100% scholarship in the UK is rare, but some universities and schemes, such as the Chevening Scholarships or certain Commonwealth Scholarships, may cover full tuition and living costs. To be considered, students usually need excellent academic records, strong references, and clear leadership or professional achievements.

3.What is the GREAT Scholarship for British Council students from India?

The GREAT Scholarship is a funding scheme offered by the British Council and the UK government’s GREAT Britain campaign. For Indian students, it provides at least £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one‑year taught master’s course at selected UK universities. It is aimed at academically strong students who want international exposure and advanced training.

4.Who is eligible for a British Council scholarship?

Eligibility depends on the scholarship and the university. In general, applicants must be international students (for example, from India), have a strong academic background, and meet the entry requirements of the chosen UK university. Some scholarships also focus on specific subjects or aim to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

5.Which country gives 100% scholarships for Indian students?

Several countries offer fully funded scholarships for Indian students. The UK, USA, Germany, and Canada all have schemes that may cover full tuition and living costs. Examples include the Chevening Scholarships (UK), Fulbright Scholarships (USA), and DAAD Scholarships (Germany). These awards are highly competitive and usually require excellent academic performance and strong applications.