Loughborough Reinforces Global Engagement with New Undergraduate Scholarships for International Applicants

With an ongoing commitment to academic excellence, Loughborough University UK has announced International Excellence Scholarships for eligible students. These undergraduate scholarships are provided to reward excellent academic performance and to assist those students who have an offer for an undergraduate degree at the university. The £3,000 scholarship is available for all academic years, with the exception of study abroad and placement year scholarships. Loughborough's goal of encouraging deserving international candidates to pursue higher education in the UK is reflected in this initiative.

It was mentioned that all undergraduate degree programs at Loughborough University are eligible for the scholarship program, with the exception of the Foundation programs. During the application process, students are encouraged to peruse the university's course pages in order to learn more about the courses that are offered.

Application Process and Eligibility Criteria

The international students' scholarships are automatically awarded following the strength of the UCAS application, according to the university's guidance on admissions to the university. Therefore application for the award does not require a separate scholarship form. Successful candidates will be notified following their offer from the university.

Both particular academic requirements and qualifications are necessary to be eligible for these scholarships. While some specific programs, such as MEng Aeronautical Engineering, MEng Automotive Engineering, MEng Mechanical Engineering, MSci Natural Sciences, and BSc Sport and Exercise Science, require A*AA, the majority of courses require AAA from three A levels or an equivalent qualification.

Only international students who pay tuition fees and make Loughborough their firm (first) choice can apply. This scholarship is given to students who are self-funding and do not hold any other award from the university or sponsorships from external donor organisations. All academic requirements need to be fully met with no resits being permitted.

The university stated that it would not automatically follow a scholarship if a student has chosen to defer entry to the next academic year. In such cases, applicants are encouraged to contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office to check if the award is still applicable.

Loughborough also confirmed that all school or college-based qualifications equivalent to A levels are considered. International Foundation Programmes may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. For more information, students can contact the Global Engagement Team by phone or email. This scholarship scheme forms part of Loughborough's wider effort to support scholarships for students abroad and maintain academic reputation with excellence.

Editor's Note:

Loughborough University International Excellence Scholarships are a far-sighted and praiseworthy effort in attracting high-achieving international students into the UK. By putting out £3,000 a year for every year of undergraduate study not spent on placement or abroad, the university showcases its commitment to academic excellence and global engagement. In the highly competitive international education landscape, undergraduate scholarships are no longer mere incentives; they have become indispensable for preserving an institution's diversity and relevance. Loughborough's choice to provide these awards across a broad spectrum of subject areas (excluding Foundation programs) showcases an open and inclusive strategy, thereby reinforcing its standing as a globally-minded institution. Automatic admission consideration via UCAS is vital for ensuring an easier application experience for the students, especially given the varied and sometimes complex admission systems under which international students operate. The eligibility criteria are still demanding: AAA at three A levels (or the equivalent) and in some high-demand courses, A*AA. Such insistence on achieving results in one sitting and not accepting resits raises accessibility concerns, especially when considering students from different educational backgrounds. One of the key points to note is that these scholarships are awarded only to students who self-fund, who will take Loughborough as their firm choice and who are not in receipt of any other awards. While this may confer upon the funding award clear lines of accountability, it may also inadvertently restrict access for students who might have been relying on external sponsorship or layered finances.

Skoobuzz asserts that Loughborough University UK, has cemented a strong step towards strengthening its academic brand and international appeal. But as the sector evolves, institutions must continue to maintain a careful balancing act between excellence and equity-considering scholarships for students going abroad that are prestigious yet accessible and transparent. The long-run successes of such schemes will depend on their ability to embrace the real-world experiences of worldwide student mobility and the rapidly changing expectations of international applicants.

FAQs

1. What is the International Excellence Scholarship at Loughborough University?

It’s a scholarship worth £3,000 per year for international students who have an offer to study an undergraduate degree at Loughborough University. It helps support students with strong academic results.

2. Who can get this scholarship?

International students who pay overseas tuition fees and choose Loughborough as their firm (first) choice on UCAS. They must meet the academic entry requirements in one sitting and not receive any other university or external funding.

3. Do all courses offer this scholarship?

Yes, all undergraduate degree courses are included—except Foundation programmes. Placement years or study abroad years are not covered by the scholarship.

4. How do I apply for the scholarship?

You don’t need to apply separately. If you apply to Loughborough through UCAS and meet the entry requirements, you’ll be automatically considered. The university will let you know if you’ve been awarded the scholarship after your offer is sent.

5. What grades do I need to be eligible?

Most courses need AAA from three A levels (or an equivalent qualification). A few courses need higher grades—A*AA—including:

• MEng Aeronautical Engineering

• MEng Automotive Engineering

• MEng Mechanical Engineering

• MSci Natural Sciences

• BSc Sport and Exercise Science

6. Can I still get the scholarship if I defer my place?

Not automatically. If you want to start your course the following year, you’ll need to contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office to check if the scholarship is still available.

7. What if I’m studying a Foundation programme?

Foundation programmes are not included in this scholarship. However, other support may be available; check with the university directly.

8. Are international students eligible for other scholarships in the UK?

Yes, many UK universities offer scholarships for undergraduate students. Loughborough’s International Excellence Scholarship is one example of support for students abroad.