The GREAT Scholarship, an initiative by the British Council in collaboration with 72 UK universities, provides international students with a unique opportunity to pursue a one-year postgraduate program in the UK. Targeting students from countries such as China, Nigeria, Pakistan, India, Thailand, and several others, this scholarship is designed to promote educational and cultural exchange, while providing access to top-tier institutions across the UK.
Key Highlights of the GREAT Scholarship
- Funding Amount: £10,000 towards tuition fees for one-year postgraduate courses.
- Eligible Countries: Includes China, India, Pakistan, Ghana, Nigeria, and 12 others.
- Participating Universities: 72 UK institutions such as the University of York, University of Manchester, and University of Warwick.
- Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be a citizen of one of the eligible countries, hold an undergraduate degree, and meet the English language requirements set by the chosen university.
Scholarship Objectives and Structure
The primary objective of the GREAT Scholarship is to enable talented students from diverse backgrounds to experience the UK’s world-class educational environment. By fostering this international exchange, the scholarship promotes mutual understanding, research collaboration, and global development.
The scholarship amount of £10,000 is substantial, providing a significant portion of the tuition fees for a range of postgraduate taught courses. In many cases, the scholarship can be combined with other external or internal funding opportunities, provided that the total does not cover 100% of tuition fees.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a GREAT Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of one of the 14 participating countries. Each university may have specific restrictions on which courses and fields of study are eligible for students from different countries. For example, Nigerian students applying to the University of York are only eligible for postgraduate law programs.
- Hold an undergraduate degree that qualifies them for postgraduate study in the UK.
- Meet the English language requirements set by the university. This typically involves providing proof of English proficiency through exams such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Apply for an eligible postgraduate taught course. The scholarship is primarily intended for one-year master’s degree programs.
- Demonstrate a strong academic record. In competitive selection processes, candidates with higher academic achievements, such as first-class degrees or their international equivalents, are preferred.
- Be ready to engage with the British Council. Recipients are expected to act as ambassadors of the scholarship, both during their studies and afterward as alumni. They will be required to attend networking events, share their experiences, and mentor future students.
Application Process
The application process for the GREAT Scholarship is straightforward but competitive:
- Research and Apply: Interested students must first identify their desired university and course of study. They should then visit the university’s scholarship page to understand the specific requirements and deadlines.
- Submit a Scholarship Application: Each participating university manages its own selection process. Students are typically required to submit personal statements, academic references, and proof of qualifications.
- Review and Selection: A panel at each institution reviews the applications and selects successful candidates based on merit, motivation, and alignment with the course of study. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or asked to provide additional documents.
Post-Scholarship Expectations
Beyond the financial support, the GREAT Scholarship comes with certain responsibilities. Awardees are expected to engage with the British Council during and after their studies by attending events, sharing their experiences, and supporting future scholarship applicants. This helps to create a growing network of GREAT scholars who contribute to strengthening the ties between the UK and their home countries.
Participating Universities and Courses
A diverse range of UK institutions participate in the GREAT Scholarship program, including prestigious universities across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each institution offers scholarships for specific courses, which may vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin. For instance:
- University of York: Offers scholarships to students from China, Ghana, Pakistan, and Nigeria for various postgraduate taught course.
- Anglia Ruskin University (ARU): Provides GREAT Scholarships across a range of subject areas for students from multiple countries.
Below is a table summarizing some key participating universities and their country-specific offerings:
| University | Eligible Countries | Example Courses |
|---|---|---|
| University of York | China, Ghana, Nigeria, Pakistan, Turkey | LLM Law, MA Applied Human Rights, LLM Art Law |
| University of Manchester | China, India, Pakistan | Various postgraduate taught courses in Science, Law |
| University of East Anglia | India, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey | Environmental Sciences, Business Management |
| University of Glasgow | Kenya, Vietnam, Indonesia | Engineering, Humanities, Public Health |
Deadlines and Important Dates
While the application deadlines vary across institutions, the majority close by May 2024. Applicants are advised to check individual university websites for specific deadlines and application guidelines. Scholarship recipients are usually informed of their selection by June 2024, after which they must formally accept the offer and secure their place in the university.
Why Apply for the GREAT Scholarship?
The GREAT Scholarship offers more than just financial assistance. It provides international students a gateway to one of the most dynamic and globally recognized education systems in the world. By studying in the UK, students gain access to cutting-edge research, networking opportunities with global leaders, and an unparalleled cultural experience.
In addition, GREAT scholars become part of a prestigious network of alumni who continue to collaborate on global challenges and contribute to educational and social advancements in their home countries. The scholarship thus serves as both a financial resource and a lifelong professional network.
Final Thoughts
The GREAT Scholarship is an exceptional opportunity for students seeking to expand their academic horizons and engage in transformative experiences in the UK. By applying, eligible students from around the world can not only access world-class education but also contribute to international knowledge exchange and build long-lasting professional relationships.