Study in UK with Scholarship from Nepal
Studying in the UK is a big dream for many students in Nepal, but the reality of high tuition fees and living costs often makes it feel out of reach. The expenses can easily cross into lakhs of rupees each year. For most Nepali families, that’s not just a challenge; it feels almost impossible.
The good thing is, you don’t have to give up on your dream. The UK offers scholarships designed for talented and hardworking students willing to make a difference. These scholarships can reduce or even cover your living costs, while giving you access to some of the best opportunities in the world. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the types of scholarships, eligibility, and practical steps so you know exactly how to study in the UK with a scholarship from Nepal.
Types of Scholarships in the UK for Nepalese Students
Nepalese students have access to a variety of scholarships that fall into three main categories: government-funded programs, non-governmental or external scholarships, and university-specific awards.
1. UK Government-Sponsored Scholarships
The UK government offers some of the best scholarships for international students, including those from Nepal. They’re very competitive, but if you get one, they can cover most or even all of your study costs. The most reputed government-funded scholarships include Chevening, Commonwealth, and GREAT scholarships.
2. Non-Government Scholarships in the UK for Nepalese
Not all scholarships come directly from the UK government. Some are offered by councils or organizations, and Nepalese students can apply for these too. British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM is a popular and prestigious organization-funded scholarship for studying in the UK from Nepal.
3. University-Specific Scholarships
Almost every UK university has its own set of scholarships for international students, including those from Nepal. These can be:
- Merit-based – for students with strong academic performance
- Need-based – for students who need financial support
- Subject-specific – for students studying certain courses like law, engineering, or business
Explore all three options on the official website of your chosen university. Make note of the eligibility requirements for all kinds of scholarships. This way, you can jot down your top options based on your academic profile, maximizing your chances of selection.
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Popular Scholarships for Nepalese Students in the UK
Now that you know there are different types of scholarships, let’s talk about the ones Nepalese students usually aim for. These are some of the most popular, prestigious, and competitive scholarships in the UK open to international students, including those from Nepal.
1. Chevening Scholarships
This is one of the most famous and prestigious scholarships you can apply for. It is fully funded, which means it covers your tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, visa fees, and even your arrival allowance.
To apply for Chevening, you’ll need to:
- Have a bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Show at least 2 years of work or volunteering experience
- Prove you’ve got leadership potential
- Promise to return to Nepal after finishing your studies
Applications usually open in August and close in November each year.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
If you’re aiming for a master’s or PhD in the UK, the Commonwealth Scholarship is another big opportunity. It’s designed for students from developing countries like Nepal.
This scholarship covers your tuition fees, return airfare, living costs, and family allowances (for PhD students). This scholarship assures you that you can entirely focus on your studies and contribute to academic research while the UK government takes care of your financial concerns.
3. GREAT Scholarships
The GREAT scholarship is a funding program, where the UK and certain universities jointly offer you £10,000 toward tuition fees for a master’s degree. While it doesn’t cover your living costs or visa, it still cuts a big chunk off your total expenses.
This scholarship is highly competitive, but what works in your favor is that multiple UK universities participate, which means you get more chances to apply. It could be the perfect choice if you see yourself as a future decision-maker, change-maker, or leader in Nepal after completing your studies.
4. British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM
Here’s a great opportunity if you’re a female student from Nepal interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics. The British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM are designed to encourage more women into these fields.
They usually cover tuition, travel, living costs, and even additional support for mothers. For ambitious young women in Nepal aiming to break barriers in STEM, this scholarship can be a life-changing opportunity.
5. Global Wales Scholarships for International Students
If you’re considering studying in Wales, the Global Wales scholarship is worth looking into. It supports master’s students with funding to make higher education more accessible. It is not as famous as Chevening or the Commonwealth, so it is also less competitive. This gives Nepalese students a better chance of getting selected if they meet the requirements.
UK Scholarships by Study Level
There are plenty of scholarships in the UK. And the chances are, some of them are specifically for undergraduates, while others are only for postgraduate, MBA, or PhD students. Knowing which ones apply to your study level can save you a lot of time during research and applications. Here’s a breakdown of what Nepalese students can expect at different stages of study.
1. Undergraduate Scholarship in UK for International Students
If you’ve just finished your +2 or A-Levels and want to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the UK, there are plenty of scholarship opportunities. Most UK universities offer merit-based entrance scholarships for international students. These are usually awarded based on your high school grades, extracurricular activities, and overall potential. Some universities also provide need-based financial aid if you can demonstrate financial challenges.
Here is a detailed table listing scholarships in the UK that are popular among Nepalese students:
S.N. | Scholarship Name | Coverage | Provider/University |
| 1 | University of Law Scholarships | Full or partial tuition fee scholarships for undergraduates | University of Law, UK |
| 2 | GREAT Scholarships | Minimum £10,000 towards tuition fees (postgraduate level) | UK Government’s GREAT Britain Campaign & British Council |
| 3 | Commonwealth Scholarships | Tuition fees, return airfare, stipend | UK Government |
| 4 | Chevening Scholarships | Full tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, and grants | UK Government |
| 5 | University of Westminster – International Scholarships | Full tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and flights from Nepal | University of Westminster |
| 6 | University of Bristol – Think Big Scholarships | £5,000 to £20,000 tuition | University of Bristol |
| 7 | University of Edinburgh – Global Scholarships | £5,000–£15,000 | University of Edinburgh |
| 8 | University of Sussex – Chancellor’s International Scholarships | 50% tuition fee waiver | University of Sussex |
| 9 | University of Bedfordshire Vice Chancellor’s Scholarships | Tuition coverage, partial/full, varies | University of Bedfordshire |
| 10 | Middlesex University Scholarships | Tuition discount/scholarships | Middlesex University, London |
| 11 | University of Hertfordshire Scholarships | Tuition scholarships | University of Hertfordshire |
| 12 | Northumbria University Scholarships | Tuition reduction | Northumbria University |
| 13 | Liverpool John Moores University Scholarships | Partial scholarships | Liverpool John Moores University |
Universities like Manchester, Warwick, Glasgow, Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, and Imperial College London are highly popular among Nepalese students, many offering their own merit-based scholarships, especially at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
2. Postgraduate Scholarship for International Students
Postgraduate scholarships are the most common route for Nepalese students, as the UK attracts thousands of master’s applicants every year.
Here is a list of prominent scholarships available in the UK for postgraduate students from Nepal:
Scholarship Name | Coverage | Provider | Special Requirements/Notes |
| Chevening Scholarship | Full tuition, monthly living allowance, travel, and visa fees | UK Government (FCDO) | Leadership potential, 2+ years of work experience, commitment to return to Nepal, competitive selection |
| Commonwealth Scholarship | Full tuition, airfare, living stipend, thesis/fieldwork grants | Commonwealth Scholarship Commission | Strong academic background, study relevant to the development goals of Nepal, Master’s/PhD only |
| GREAT Scholarships | £10,000 tuition fee towards a 1-year Master's program | UK Government & British Council | Must have an admission offer from participating UK universities, leadership potential, Nepal citizen |
| Clarendon Scholarship | Full tuition and living expenses | University of Oxford | Academic excellence, open to all postgraduate subjects |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship | Full tuition and living expenses | University of Cambridge | Academic excellence, leadership, commitment to improve the world |
| Rhodes Scholarship | Tuition, living expenses, travel | University of Oxford | Outstanding scholarly achievements, leadership, and commitment to service |
| Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships | Up to £15,000 tuition fee waiver | University of Edinburgh | Research-focused, academic merit |
| University of Westminster Postgraduate Scholarships | Full/partial tuition, accommodation, and flights | University of Westminster | Merit-based, financial need, active Nepalese student network |
| University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarships | 50% tuition fee waiver | University of Sussex | Excellent academic record, offer letter from the university |
| University of Bristol Think Big Scholarships | £5,000 to £20,000 tuition support | University of Bristol | Academic merit, a motivation statement is required |
| Cardiff University Scholarships | Partial or full tuition fee waiver | Cardiff University | Merit-based, research, and taught postgraduate programs |
| University of Greenwich Scholarships | Partial tuition scholarships | University of Greenwich | Diverse programs, financial need consideration |
| Middlesex University Scholarships | Partial tuition fee waiver | Middlesex University | Employability focus, merit-based |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Degrees | Tuition, travel, living stipend | European Union-funded program | Multi-country study experience, competitive international selection |
| Queen Mary University of London Scholarships | Partial to full scholarships | Queen Mary University of London | Academic merit, field/department specific |
Always check specific eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application procedures on official scholarship or university websites to optimize chances of success.
3. MBA Scholarships to Study in the UK
MBA programs in the UK are some of the most competitive and also the most expensive. A one-year MBA can cost anywhere from £20,000 to £50,000. That hefty fee makes securing an MBA scholarship even more important.
Here is a list of scholarships in the UK available for Nepalese students pursuing MBA programs. These scholarships come from the government, organizations, and universities:
Scholarship Name | Coverage | Provider/University | Special Requirements/Notes |
| Chevening Scholarship | Full tuition, living allowance, travel | UK Government (FCDO) | Leadership potential, 2+ years of work experience, commitment to return to Nepal |
| GREAT Scholarships | Minimum £10,000 tuition waiver | UK Government & British Council | One-year Master’s including MBA at partner universities; Nepal citizen; academic excellence, leadership |
| University of Oxford Saïd Business School MBA Scholarship | Partial to full tuition | University of Oxford | Merit-based, highly competitive, Nepalese-eligible, leadership and academic excellence |
| University of Cambridge Judge Business School Scholarships | Partial tuition and living costs | University of Cambridge | Academic merit, leadership, Nepalese eligible |
| University of Manchester Alliance Manchester Business School Scholarships | Partial or full tuition | University of Manchester | Merit-based, financial need considered |
| London Business School Scholarships | Partial to full tuition | London Business School (LBS) | Merit and need-based, global leadership potential |
| University of Warwick Business School Scholarships | Tuition fee reductions | University of Warwick | Merit-based scholarships for international MBA students |
| Henley Business School Scholarships | Partial tuition scholarships | University of Reading (Henley) | Merit-based scholarships for MBA candidates |
| University of Birmingham MBA Scholarships | Tuition fee waivers | University of Birmingham | Merit and diversity-focused scholarships |
| Coventry University MBA Scholarships | Partial tuition scholarships | Coventry University | Merit and financial need-based awards |
| University of Leeds MBA Scholarships | Partial tuition fee scholarships | University of Leeds | Academic merit-based scholarships |
| Imperial College Business School Scholarships | Partial tuition fees | Imperial College London | Merit-based scholarships for exceptional MBA candidates |
These MBA scholarships for Nepalese students are highly competitive and usually demand outstanding academic records, leadership experience, and clear future ambitions. Do check university websites for specific criteria, deadlines, and application procedures as they differ across institutions.
4. PhD Scholarships to Study in the UK
For research students, the UK is one of the best places in the world. PhD scholarships are often fully funded, especially if you’re applying through research councils or specific academic projects. PhD scholarships are extremely competitive but also highly rewarding, as they cover tuition, provide a monthly stipend, and often include research funding.
Some PhD scholarships in the UK available specifically for Nepalese students are:
Scholarship Name | Coverage | Provider/University | Special Requirements/Notes |
| Commonwealth Scholarship | Full tuition, stipend, airfare, and thesis grants | UK Government (FCDO) | For PhD and Master's by research, relevant to development goals, competitive, and fully funded |
| Chevening Scholarship | Full tuition, living allowance, travel | UK Government (FCDO) | Leadership, work experience, commitment to home country; mostly for Master’s, some doctoral programs |
| GREAT Scholarships | Minimum £10,000 tuition contribution | UK Government & British Council | Includes some PhD funding at partner universities; must be a Nepalese citizen with a strong academic record |
| Clarendon Scholarship | Full tuition and living expenses | University of Oxford | Prestigious, merit-based for all graduate studies |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship | Full tuition and living expenses | University of Cambridge | Academic excellence, leadership for postgraduate research |
| Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships | £5,000 to £15,000 tuition waiver | University of Edinburgh | Academic merit, research focus |
| University of Manchester PhD Scholarships | Tuition fee waiver, stipend | University of Manchester | School/research group specific; competitive |
| University of Warwick PhD Scholarships | Tuition and stipend | University of Warwick | Competitive, merit-based |
| Cardiff University PhD Scholarships | Full or partial tuition and stipend | Cardiff University | Merit-based, research-focused |
| University of York PhD Scholarships | Tuition fees, stipend | University of York | Competitive, research-focused |
Verify the details and deadlines from the official university or scholarship websites when applying.
Eligibility to Apply for a UK Scholarship from Nepal
To apply for a UK scholarship from Nepal, you need good grades, English skills, clear goals, and, in some cases, proof of financial need. All scholarships are not the same, but most of them have these common requirements you should work on:
1. Good Academic Performance
Most UK scholarships for Nepalese students require at least 65–75% in previous studies. Bigger scholarships, like Chevening or Commonwealth, may expect even better results. If you’re applying for research programs, universities might also check your thesis work or published papers.
In short, if you’ve been consistent in your studies, you’re already a step closer.
2. English Language Skills
You usually need an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 (or PTE/TOEFL equivalent) to qualify for a scholarship in the UK. Since all courses in the UK are taught in English, you need to prove you can understand and use the language well. Higher scores can give you an extra edge.
3. Leadership and Activities Outside Class
Scholarships in the UK often look for students from Nepal who can show leadership and community involvement. Grades aren’t everything; they also want students who can make an impact. So, if you’ve led a project, organized an event, or volunteered, don’t forget to highlight it.
4. Clear Goals and a Strong SOP
A strong SOP is required to explain your career goals and how studying in the UK will benefit Nepal. This is the best chance to tell your personal story and leave a lasting impression. Cover why you want to study in the UK, your career goals, and how your education will help you and Nepal. A well-written SOP can sometimes matter more than grades.
5. Financial Need (For Some Scholarships)
Some UK university scholarships may ask Nepalese students to show proof of financial need through documents. While most government and council-funded scholarships are merit-based, a lot of university scholarships consider your financial need as well. If required, you may have to provide your family’s financial records.
How to Get a Scholarship in the UK from Nepal?
To get a scholarship in the UK from Nepal, you need to start early, research well, prepare documents, and apply before the deadlines. To make it clearer, here’s a practical step-by-step guide, just like we explain to students at our consultancy.
Step 1: Start Early with Research
Most UK scholarships require applications 6–12 months before classes start. The earlier you start, the better your chances. Begin by making a list of scholarships you qualify for, such as Chevening, Commonwealth, GREAT, or university awards. Take note of their eligibility, requirements, and cost coverage.
Step 2: Shortlist Universities and Programs
Choose universities and programs that match your career goals. If you want strong research opportunities, look at universities known for PhD funding. If you’re interested in leadership development, target Chevening-partner universities. If you are looking for an undergraduate or an average postgraduate opportunity, opt for university-specific ones.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
You need to prepare your academic and personal documents before applying. Most scholarships will ask for:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English test scores (IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Resume/CV with extracurriculars and achievements
Step 4: Apply Before Deadlines
You must submit your application before the scholarship deadline. It sounds simple, but many students in Nepal lose out because they apply late. Once the deadline closes, there are no second chances. Make a realistic plan beforehand and follow the timeline as much as possible.
If you need help with practically meeting your application deadlines for UK education, consider consulting a trusted education counsellor.
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews (If Required)
Some scholarships, like Chevening, may call you for an interview round. If you get shortlisted, you will need to talk about your career plans, leadership experiences, and how studying in the UK will help you and your vision to contribute to Nepal. Be confident, understand the question well, and answer clearly.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting a UK Scholarship
In order to increase your chances of success in obtaining a UK scholarship as a Nepali student, you must do more than gain good grades; you must demonstrate that you are motivated, prepared, and ready to make a difference. Adopt the following:
1. Maintain Good Grades All the Time
A minimum of 65-75% in your final result is required for most scholarships, though higher grades can put you at an advantage. Have consistent performance instead of end-time performance.
2. Show Leadership or Social Involvement in Nepal
Scholarship committees love to see students who take initiative. Highlight any leading experience you’ve earned. This could be leading a school club, volunteering in your community, or contributing to social projects. It shows you can make a difference beyond academics.
3. Write a Compelling SOP
Your Statement of Purpose is your story. Explain clearly why you chose the UK, how the program fits your career goals, and how you plan to use your education to benefit Nepal. The closer your goals align with the scholarship’s vision, the stronger your application.
4. Apply for More than One Scholarship
Don’t put all your hopes on one scholarship. Apply to many that suit your profile. Cover all kinds, from government and non-government to university-based awards. This increases your chances of success and gives you multiple options.
Conclusion
A diverse range of scholarships, including government and university-specific awards, makes studying in the UK an achievable goal for Nepalese students at all levels. The key is preparation. Strong academics, a clear career plan, and timely applications can make the difference between simply wishing to study abroad and actually securing your place in a top UK university.
If you’re serious about your dream to study in the UK with a scholarship from Nepal, now is the time to start researching, preparing your documents, and applying early. Contact us today to overcome your financial challenges and study in the UK with full or partial funding coverage. Want to apply for the UK, USA, Australia, or Europe? Get in touch with the best consultancy in Nepal—SAS Education Consultancy—for a smooth visa process and expert guidance.