University of London Scholarships for International Students: Complete Guide 2025/26
Introduction
The University of London offers a wide spectrum of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options for international students. Whether you’re aiming for undergraduate, postgraduate, or distance learning, there are award programs designed to reduce tuition, support living expenses, and enable academic success. This guide explains the main scholarships available, eligibility, application process, deadlines, and tips to maximise your chances.
Key Scholarships & Funding Options
| Scholarship / Bursary | What It Offers | Who It’s For | Key Details & Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aziz Foundation Scholarships | Full fee coverage for certain distance learning Master’s & selected in-person programmes | Exceptional students with a background in British Muslim community involvement. Programmes: LLM Law, MSc Data Science, MSc Cyber Security; plus other Arts & Humanities courses. University of London+1 | |
| LLM Scholarships & Bursaries | Fee discounts (30-40%) for LLM / PGDip / PGCert programmes. Up to 18 scholarships/year for high-performing students. University of London | LLM applicants; heavier benefit for residents in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Sri Lanka. University of London | |
| University of London Scholars Programme (SOAS) | £10,000 scholarship (distributed across years) for full-time undergraduates starting Sept 2025. SOAS | Applicants under Home fee status; full-time UG programmes. SOAS | |
| International financial support at Birkbeck | Multiple scholarships & discounts for overseas / international students, including first-year and progression support. Up to ~£5,000 in some cases. Birkbeck, University of London | UG or PG full-time taught programmes; international fee status students. Birkbeck, University of London | |
| Commonwealth Scholarships (Distance Learning) | Full fee waivers for certain distance learning Masters programmes (e.g. MA Human Rights; MA Refugee Protection etc.) especially for eligible applicants from Commonwealth countries. University of London | Applicants with offer on participating programmes via University of London. Must apply through correct channels. University of London |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for these scholarships, students typically need to meet the following:
- International / Overseas fee status (paying the non-UK fees) unless the scholarship is specific to certain regions or Home status.
- Offer or conditional offer of admission to an eligible course / programme. Some scholarships require holding the offer before applying. University of London+1
- Academic merit — grades, previous qualifications, sometimes performance thresholds.
- Financial need in many cases — scholarships like UCL Global Scholars, or income guidelines for overseas students. University College London+1
- Other criteria depending on the specific scholarship (e.g. community involvement, country of origin, previous alumni status). University of London+1
How to Apply
- Identify the programme you wish to enroll in and check whether it is eligible under the scholarship or bursary scheme.
- Visit the University of London / relevant college scholarship pages (SOAS, Birkbeck, etc.) and review the complete listing of funding opportunities. University of London+2Birkbeck, University of London+2
- Submit your course admission application first where required. Some scholarships require an offer before application.
- Complete the scholarship application by the deadline, including supporting documentation: transcripts, proof of fees, statements of purpose, proof of income (if required).
- Meet all programme & fee status deadlines. Late or incomplete applications often disqualify.
Deadlines to Watch
- Aziz Foundation Scholarships for 2025-26: check University of London site for specific deadlines. University of London
- LLM Bursaries & Scholarships have country-based offerings (Pakistan etc.), with corresponding deadlines. University of London
- UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship deadline: 28 April 2025 for entry 2025/26. University College London
- Many International Masters Awards and bursary programs have deadlines in spring of 2025. University College London+1
Benefits & Financial Impact
- Some scholarships cover full tuition fees (e.g. Aziz Foundation) or major portions thereof. University of London
- Others offer tuition discounts (30-40%) for eligible students from particular countries. Helps reduce burdens significantly. University of London
- The UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarships also include maintenance allowance for living costs for full-fee students from overseas. University College London
Tips to Maximise Your Chances
- Maintain strong academic performance — competitive scholarships often demand top grades.
- Apply early. Prepare all documents well in advance.
- If financial need is part of eligibility, prepare credible documentation (income proof etc.).
- Tailor your application / motivation letters to reflect scholarship criteria (e.g. community service, leadership, financial challenges).
- Monitor the various colleges under University of London (e.g. SOAS, Birkbeck, School of Advanced Study) as each may have unique awards.