GREAT Scholarships India: Eligibility, Deadline & How to Apply

Dreaming of a UK master's degree but worried about the cost? The GREAT Scholarships India programme could be your key. This prestigious initiative, launched by the British Council and the UK government's GREAT Britain Campaign in partnership with UK universities, is designed to make UK education more accessible for brilliant Indian students.

For the 2025-26 academic year, Indian students have a wide array of opportunities with scholarships available at numerous leading universities across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This guide covers everything you need to know, detailing the eligibility criteria, the substantial financial benefits, the step-by-step application process, and the list of participating universities to get you started on your journey to studying in the UK.

This scholarship is specifically for one-year taught postgraduate courses. It is available at a wide range of leading UK universities, each offering scholarships for specific courses.

GREAT Scholarships Awards

The GREAT Scholarship is awarded primarily on the basis of outstanding academic merit. It recognises Indian students who demonstrate exceptional academic potential and the ambition to be future leaders in their field. Being selected makes you part of an exclusive cohort of scholars and a prestigious programme run by the British Council.

GREAT Scholarships Amount

The scholarship offers a significant financial award dedicated to reducing the cost of your tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate programme in the UK.

GREAT Scholarships Benefits

Beyond the direct financial support, the scholarship offers prestigious recognition and a pathway to a world-class UK education, enhancing your academic and professional profile.

The eligibility criteria are set to identify high-achieving Indian students with the potential to excel in a UK postgraduate programme.

Countries Eligible Under GREAT Scholarships

The GREAT Scholarships programme is offered to citizens of 15 specific countries. India is a key partner in this initiative, with dedicated scholarships available across many universities.

The application process is managed directly by each participating university. You must first secure an application for admission before you can be considered for the funding.

Step 1: Choose Your Course and University
Select an eligible one-year taught Master's programme at a UK university that participates in the GREAT Scholarships for India.

Step 2: Apply for Admission
Submit your application for admission to your chosen course through the university's online portal. Note your application ID number.

Step 3: Apply for the GREAT Scholarship
Locate the dedicated GREAT Scholarship application on your chosen university's website. This is usually a separate form within their funding or scholarship section. Submit it by their deadline, ensuring you reference your postgraduate application ID.

Step 4: Await the Decision
The university will review all applications after the deadline. Shortlisted candidates are typically contacted directly.

Step 5: Accept Your Award
If successful, you will receive an official scholarship offer. You must formally accept it according to the university's instructions.

Application Timeline for GREAT Scholarships

The application cycle for the 2025-26 academic year is now closed. The general annual schedule for future intakes is outlined below.

GREAT Scholarships Interview

The GREAT Scholarship selection process does not typically involve an interview round. The decision is made based solely on the strength of your written application, academic credentials, and personal statement. You will be notified directly by the university if your application is successful.

From the Desk of Yocket

Navigating the opportunities for the GREAT Scholarship requires a strategic approach to both university and funding applications. With Yocket Premium, you can get expert assistance in selecting the right university-course combination, crafting a compelling personal statement for your scholarship, and ensuring your application highlights your academic strengths. Our personalized guidance can help you stand out in a competitive pool and maximize your chances of securing this award.

A GREAT scholar must be

• a citizen of India .

• have an undergraduate degree, be motivated and have an interest in the proposed subject area.

• meet the English language requirement of the UK university.

• establish an engagement with the UK as a scholar, through personal and academic fulfilment.

• be willing to attend a networking event for all UK-based GREAT scholars, to discuss experiences and capture perceptions of studying in the UK.

• be willing to maintain contact with the British Council and their HEI and act as an ambassador for the GREAT scholarships.

• as an alumnus of the GREAT scholarships, be willing occasionally to speak to potential candidates about his or her own experience of studying in the UK.

While requirements can vary slightly by university, you will typically need to prepare the following documents for your scholarship application:

• A completed university-specific scholarship application form.
• Copies of your academic transcripts and degree certificates.
• A personal statement (often 300-500 words) outlining your academic goals and reasons for applying.
• A valid passport copy for nationality verification.
• Your application ID/number for your postgraduate course at the university.