University of Edinburgh Scholarships for International Students in UK
The University of Edinburgh is one of the UK’s most respected universities and attracts thousands of international students every year. For students looking for financial support, the university offers a range of scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities for international applicants.
Funding is available across different levels and subjects. Some awards are designed specifically for international students, while others are offered through individual schools, colleges, government agencies and external organisations.
For the 2026/27 academic year, international students can explore opportunities for undergraduate, Master’s and PhD study.
Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Mathematics Scholarship
One of the opportunities available to international undergraduate applicants is the Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Mathematics Scholarship.
The scholarship is aimed at international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and intend to study an eligible mathematics-related undergraduate programme at the University of Edinburgh.
Because this is a competitive award, students should pay close attention to the academic requirements and application deadline.
Applicants should also understand that scholarships may cover only part of the total cost of studying in Edinburgh. Tuition fees, accommodation and everyday living expenses should be included in the financial plan.
Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies Scholarship
International students interested in veterinary medicine can also find funding through the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.
For students beginning the BVM&S Veterinary Medicine programme in the 2026/27 academic year, the university lists two scholarships for UK graduates and international students.
This can be a valuable opportunity for international applicants who want to study veterinary medicine at one of the UK’s leading veterinary schools.
However, students should check the specific eligibility requirements before applying because scholarships are often restricted to particular programmes and student categories.
GREAT Scholarships at Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh also participates in the GREAT Scholarships programme, delivered in partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign.
For 2026, the University of Edinburgh offered three GREAT Scholarships to eligible students from Thailand, Mexico and Ghana applying for eligible one-year, full-time postgraduate Master’s programmes. Each scholarship provides at least £10,000 toward postgraduate study.
The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit, and applicants are expected to have or be expecting to obtain the overseas equivalent of a UK first-class honours degree.
The application deadline for the 2026 University of Edinburgh GREAT Scholarships has passed, but students planning for future intakes should monitor the university’s website for new opportunities.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
International students from eligible developing Commonwealth countries may also be able to apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme.
For the 2026/27 academic year, the University of Edinburgh offered two scholarships covering eligible Master’s programmes such as MSc Africa and International Development, MSc Global Health Policy, MSc Global Crime, Justice and Security, MSc Comparative Education and International Development, and MSc Sport Policy, Management and International Development.
The scholarship is particularly attractive because it provides comprehensive financial support. The award covers tuition fees, return airfare and accommodation and maintenance expenses.
The 2026/27 application round has closed, so prospective students should watch for the next Commonwealth scholarship cycle.
Edinburgh Doctoral Scholarships
International students interested in PhD research should also explore the university’s doctoral funding opportunities.
The University of Edinburgh offers Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarships for students starting PhD research. The university also lists research funding from organisations such as the Economic and Social Research Council and the Arts and Humanities Research Council.
Availability depends on the research area, school and funding cycle. PhD applicants should therefore investigate opportunities within their specific academic department.
Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students can also explore scholarships available through the University of Edinburgh.
The university’s scholarship database allows prospective students to search funding opportunities according to study level, nationality and subject area. This is particularly useful because international scholarships are not always available to every nationality or programme.
Nigerian applicants should search the database using their nationality and intended course to identify scholarships for which they may qualify.
How to Apply for Edinburgh Scholarships
The application process varies from one scholarship to another.
In many cases, students are expected to apply for admission to their chosen degree programme before applying for a scholarship. The university advises applicants to carefully review the criteria and application procedures for each funding opportunity.
A typical process involves:
- Choose an eligible University of Edinburgh programme.
- Check the international admission requirements.
- Apply for admission.
- Review available scholarships.
- Check the eligibility requirements.
- Prepare academic and supporting documents.
- Submit the scholarship application before the deadline.
- Monitor your email for the outcome.
Some scholarships are automatic, while others require a separate application.
Final Thoughts
The University of Edinburgh scholarships for international students can help make studying in the UK more affordable. Opportunities range from undergraduate scholarships to Master’s funding, PhD scholarships and major international awards.
However, students should not assume that every scholarship covers all expenses. Some awards cover tuition fees only, while others may also contribute toward living costs and travel.
If you are planning to study at Edinburgh, start researching scholarships early and check the official requirements for your nationality, programme and study level.
For the latest opportunities, international applicants can use the University of Edinburgh Scholarship Search to find funding based on their nationality, subject and level of study.
