KingA Master degree scholarship in the United Kingdom is a great academic and professional opportunity for international students. The UK houses some of the world’s top universities with a variety of academic programs.
Tuition and living expenses are prohibitively expensive, though. That is where scholarships come into play, especially those offering visa sponsorship to make it easier for students to access world-class education without financial stress.
Understanding Master Degree Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship
Master degree scholarships with visa sponsorship are financial awards to students, covering tuition fees and living expenses, but also visa sponsorship that enables international students to stay in the UK for the duration of their study.
These scholarships are particularly attractive since they eliminate both financial stress and the burden of independently applying for a student visa.
Types of Master Degree Scholarships Available
- University-Specific Scholarships
- Government-Funded Scholarships
- External Scholarships from Organizations
- Scholarships for Specific Courses or Programs
Benefits of Master Degree Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship
- Financial Relief: Full or partial funding for tuition fees, living costs, and sometimes travel expenses.
- Legal Stay: Students receive a visa sponsorship, making them eligible to live and work in the UK during their study period.
- Enhancing Employability: Graduates with scholarships are often preferred by employers due to their quality education and international exposure.
Key UK Universities Offering Master Degree Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship
1. University of Oxford
- Clarendon Scholarships: Provides graduate scholarships covering full fees as well as a stipend for living expenses. Available in all subjects.
- Rhodes Scholarships: Fully funds all university and college fees, living expenses, travel to and from Oxford, and all other costs associated with pursuing a degree at University.
2. University of Cambridge
- Cambridge Trust Scholarships: Various different scholarships are available through the Cambridge Trust to undergraduate and graduate international students. Includes full cost of study plus a stipend.
- Marshall Scholarships: These pay full tuition, fees, books, and travel.
3. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
- LSE Master’s Awards: This funding is for overseas students and is awarded based on financial need.
- Chevening Scholarships: The Chevening Scholarships will fully fund one-year master’s degrees in any subject at LSE. This covers tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, travel costs, and other grants.
4. University College London (UCL)
- UCL Global Masters Scholarships: This provides funding for graduate students from low-income backgrounds internationally.
- SOAS University of London: SOAS Masters Merit Scholarships, which include tuition fees for outstanding students from all over the world.
How to Apply for Master Degree Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship
Application Procedure for a master degree scholarship with visa sponsorship:
1. Research and then Shortlist Scholarships: Go through the scholarships that suit your academic goals and financial need.
2. Check Eligibility Criteria: Make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria, such as academic qualifications, nationality, subject area, etc.
3. Prepare Documents Required:
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Proof of financial need (for needs-based scholarships)
- Valid passport
4. Apply: Apply according to the application instructions of the scholarship bodies. Most applications are online.
5. Interviews: Some scholarships require an interview, either in person or via Skype.
Key Deadlines
a. University-Specific Scholarships: These vary but usually around January for the next year.
b. Government-Funded Scholarships – Chevening, for example: Applications open approximately August each calendar year for the academic year commencing the subsequent September.
c. External Scholarships: Vary, but often in April for programs commencing in September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master Degree Scholarship
Q1: How do scholarships differ from Visa sponsorship?
Scholarships are funds provided to students of various types, such as meritorious, needy, or any other reason. Visa Sponsorship is the support of an individual student by any variance of university or organization for their stay in the UK for the purpose of study.
Q2: Can I apply for scholarships if I already have an offer from a university?
Yes, many scholarships are contingent upon having a conditional or unconditional offer from a UK university. Be sure to apply as soon as possible after receiving your offer.
Q3: Are there scholarships available for all courses?
While most scholarships are open to a wide range of disciplines, some are specific to certain fields or courses. For example, the Clarendon Scholarships at Oxford are open to all disciplines, but the LSE Chevening Scholarships are primarily for students from developing countries.
Q4: How can I increase my chances of getting a scholarship with visa sponsorship?
Have an excellent academic record. Most scholarships need a minimum GPA or equivalent in qualification. Your personal statement must relate to the ideals of the scholarship provider. You will also need strong letters of recommendation from professors or employers. Apply early and double-check all application requirements.
Q5: What if I am granted the scholarship but my visa is denied?
For such situations, each scholarship program has a different policy. Normally, in cases of a scholarship with visa sponsorship, the university will support you to reapply for a visa. However, if it is denied, then you should ask your scholarship provider whether they can give you an alternative scholarship or defer your intake to the next semester/year.
Conclusion
Receiving a scholarship with visa sponsorship to study for a Master’s degree in the UK will go a long way in easing the financial burden of studying abroad.
Carefully choosing the right master degree scholarship, making a strong application, and understanding the benefits offered by the scholarship will help the international student in maximizing his or her sojourn in the UK.
This guide shall be a comprehensive overview to help prospective students through the application process in securing these valuable opportunities.
Final Tips:
- Stay Updated: Always check university websites, scholarship portals, and government websites for new opportunities.
- Seek Guidance: For any scholarship-specific queries, contact the university’s admission office or their scholarship coordinator.
- Network: Join online forums and communities where you may discuss scholarship opportunities with the current or past recipients.
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