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28 August 2025

7 minutes read

Study Abroad in UK for Free: A Complete Guide for Indian Students

Dirghayu Kaushik
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Dirghayu Kaushik

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Founder & CEO

Dirghayu Kaushik is the co-founder and CEO of Ambitio. He started this platform because he’s been in your shoes—navigating confusing websites, second-guessing college choices, and trying to make sense of what actually matters in an application. A graduate of IIT BHU, Dirghayu combines personal experience with data-backed guidance to help students apply smarter. Whether it’s choosing the right course, building a standout profile, or writing essays that don’t feel forced, his mission is simple: to make getting into your dream university less overwhelming, and a little more honest.

28 August 2025

7 minutes read

Key Takeaways

  • Study abroad in UK for free is possible through top scholarships like Chevening, Commonwealth, and GREAT that cover tuition and living costs.
  • Low-cost universities and specialized trusts offer affordable ways to study, making the UK a practical destination for Indian students.
  • Strong academics, timely applications, and profile building are key to securing scholarships and turning the UK dream into reality.

More than 150,000 international students in the UK have to cope with increasing tuition fees and living expenses every year, so higher education is actually an unaffordable dream. For Indian students who aspire to study abroad, the harsh reality is straightforward: you either pay to study or you apply for scholarships.

Fortunately, there are highly recognized scholarships such as Chevening Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarship, GREAT Scholarships, and UK government scholarships that provide full scholarships, free tuition opportunities, and even return airfare to the UK, opening doors to study abroad for free.

Why Indian Students Choose the UK for Higher Education?

Indian students are attracted to the UK due to its famous universities, globally accepted degrees, and varied study programs. As an undergraduate or postgraduate student or a research scholar, the UK provides world-class education, lively campus life, and good career prospects.

With government scholarships, Chevening, Commonwealth, and GREAT Scholarships, students can even pursue studies abroad in UK for free. This combination of higher education prowess, cultural diversity, and availability of completely funded scholarships makes the UK a preferred choice for high-achieving Indian students.

How to Study Abroad in UK for Free?

Most Indian students who wish to pursue studies abroad have the UK on their minds, but the exorbitant study fee acts as a hindrance.

study abroad in uk for free

Fortunately, it is more than possible to study abroad in UK for free with the right scholarships and funding. And here’s how:

Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships

Well-known UK scholarships like Chevening, Commonwealth, GREAT Scholarships, and Westminster International Scholarships provide full scholarships to international students. They are given to students from India and other developing nations and cover tuition fees and living costs.

Explore University Scholarships

Most top universities in the UK such as University of Oxford, Cambridge, and University of Edinburgh, offer university scholarships to undergraduate and postgraduate students. The scholarships are made available to talented international students in UK based on merit, leadership, or financial need.

Leverage Government and British Council Funding

Free education in the UK is made available by the UK government scholarships for international students and efforts by the British Council. International students who desire to study for free are supported by such programs and receive extra allowances such as return airfare to the UK.

Look Beyond the UK

Students can further make comparisons of study in Germany or other study in Europe places where tuition-free universities are available. Though the UK is a dream place for students, merging international choices with UK scholarships increases the feasibility of studying free.

Specialized Trusts and Funding

Scholarships such as the Charles Wallace India Trust offer rare opportunities for funding Indian students pursuing arts, heritage, and humanities. Such scholarships provided aid to international students and significantly lower the overall costs of study.

Using these means of studying, determined Indian students are able to pursue degrees in the UK from top universities while turning studying abroad in UK for free into a reality.

Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in UK for Free

For the Indian students who desire to study in the UK, the greatest challenge is financing studies. Fortunately, a number of scholarships in the UK enable students to study for free or for a minimal amount.

These scholarships presented by the UK government, prestigious universities, and trusts are the ideal means to study without any financial burden.

Chevening Scholarships

The Chevening Scholarship is among the most esteemed scholarships in the UK, granted to candidates from more than 150 nations. It grants full scholarships that include tuition fee, living allowance, and even travel expenses, which enable free education in the UK for promising leaders.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityIndian students who want to pursue Masters in UK at top universities
CoverageTuition fees, living stipend, travel, visa costs
ValueFully funded scholarship
Awarded ToOutstanding international students who are interested in studying abroad

Commonwealth Scholarships

Commonwealth scholarships are offered to international students from developing Commonwealth countries, including India. The scheme helps undergraduate and postgraduate students access free education in the UK, supporting those who cannot afford study costs.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityStudents from developing Commonwealth countries
CoverageTuition, airfare, living allowance, exam fees
ValueScholarships worth full funding
Awarded ToStudents who wish to study at renowned universities in the UK

GREAT Scholarships

UCL GREAT Scholarships are scholarships funded by the British Council and UK universities. They are specifically designed for students who are looking for scholarships to study in one-year postgraduate programs.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityIndian students applying for Masters in UK
CoveragePart-funding for tuition fees
Value£10,000 towards study costs
Awarded ToInternational students who want to study in UK universities

Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships

This prestigious scholarship, Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships, is specifically designed for students from India who wish to pursue arts, conservation of heritage, or humanities. It is among the distinct scholarships available where students can pursue studies without costs or at partial costs in specialized fields.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityMid-career professionals and students from India
CoverageTuition, accommodation, and living expenses
ValueFully or partially funded depending on the program
Awarded ToStudents granted opportunities at renowned universities and institutions

Westminster International Scholarships

The Westminster International Scholarships provide full scholarships to students from developing countries studying abroad. They cover undergraduate and postgraduate students with fees and accommodation, guaranteeing that deserving candidates study for free in the UK.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityStudents from developing countries including India
CoverageTuition fees, accommodation, living costs
ValueFull scholarships
Awarded ToTalented international students in UK who need financial support

With these study scholarships, Indian students interested in pursuing studies in the UK at the best colleges can make their dream come true. These opportunities show that study destinations such as the UK are not only famous but also achievable to study for free with proper sponsorship.

Low-Cost Universities in UK for Indian Students

For most Indian students, the expensive cost of studies in the UK makes it seem impossible. However, with the right scholarships in UK and low-cost universities, foreign study in UK is possible absolutely free of charge or at substantially lower fees. Such universities give proper study, provide scholarships to students, and actually support international students from all over the world.

UniversityWhy It’s AffordableScholarship & Support Options
University of StirlingKnown for offering lower tuition fees compared to other UK universities.Multiple UK scholarships for Indian students and bursaries available to international students.
Leeds Beckett UniversityOffers low-cost degrees and flexible payment plans, making UK an investment for many.Scholarships are awarded to EU and international students based on merit.
Teesside UniversityProvides affordable tuition fees for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.Scholarships in UK available, supporting students from 1500 students from 140 countries.
University of West LondonPopular destination for students looking for budget-friendly education in the capital.Scholarships are highly competitive but granted to students who excel academically.
University of BedfordshireOffers some of the most affordable courses in the UK, especially for Indian students.Available to international students, including EU students, with financial aid options.

These tuition free universities don’t technically mean free universities, but with the right scholarships for students, many students study for free or at very low cost. This makes them a dream for many students who want to study abroad in UK for free.

Cost of Living in the UK for International Students

While free education in UK through scholarships offered can reduce tuition costs, living expenses remain an important factor. For undergraduate students and postgraduates, the UK is an investment, and knowing the real costs helps students plan smartly and even study abroad in UK for free with the right ways to study and budgeting.

Expense CategoryAverage Monthly Cost (GBP)Notes
Accommodation£450 – £800Costs vary depending on city; London is the most expensive.
Food & Groceries£150 – £250Students can also save by cooking at home instead of eating out.
Transportation£50 – £120Discounts available to students; travel cards reduce costs.
Utilities & Internet£60 – £100Shared housing helps reduce bills.
Study Materials£30 – £70Many libraries and e-resources are offered to students for free.
Leisure & Miscellaneous£100 – £200Covers social activities, sports, and personal expenses.

Eligibility, Application Process for Indian Students to Study in the UK

For Indian students, study abroad destinations like the UK are highly attractive because many universities offer full scholarships.

study abroad in uk for free

With the right profile and preparation, it is possible to study abroad in UK for free, as long as you meet the eligibility and application requirements.

  • Academic Qualifications
    Most international students need strong academic records, with at least 60–70% in previous degrees. For postgraduate programs, a recognized undergraduate degree is mandatory.
  • Language Proficiency
    Since courses are taught in English, exams like IELTS or TOEFL are often required. However, some universities exempt students if prior education was in English.
  • Scholarship Requirements
    To access scholarships is one of the best ways students can study for free. Applicants must show academic merit, leadership qualities, and financial need, depending on the funding type.
  • Application Process
    Students must apply through UCAS (for undergraduates) or directly to universities (for postgraduates). Submitting transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter of Recommendation (LORs), and scholarship essays on time is crucial.
  • Visa & Financial Proof
    Even with scholarships, international students need to provide proof of funds for living expenses, unless fully covered by awards.

Conclusion 

The dream to study abroad in UK for free is no longer out of reach. With the right mix of scholarships, planning, and guidance, Indian students can unlock opportunities at some of the world’s most prestigious universities without being burdened by costs. But navigating applications, scholarships, and profile-building alone can be overwhelming.

That’s where Ambitio comes in. As a trusted study abroad consultancy specializing in profile building, Ambitio helps you craft a winning profile, secure scholarships, and stand out to top UK universities. Ready to make your dream real? Join Ambitio Elite today!

FAQs

Is it possible to study abroad in UK for free?

Yes, students can study abroad in UK for free by obtaining fully funded scholarships, grants, and sponsorships that cover tuition and living costs.

What scholarships help students study abroad in UK for free?

Major scholarships to study abroad in UK for free include Chevening, Commonwealth, Marshall, Gates Cambridge, and some university-specific awards.

Does study abroad in UK for free apply to undergraduate and postgraduate programs?

Yes, there are opportunities to study abroad in UK for free for both undergraduate and postgraduate students through different scholarships and financial aid programs.

Who is eligible to study abroad in UK for free?

Eligibility to study abroad in UK for free usually requires good academic records, English proficiency, university acceptance, and fulfillment of specific scholarship criteria.

Are living expenses included when students study abroad in UK for free?

Many scholarships that allow students to study abroad in UK for free also provide stipends for living costs, travel, and sometimes accommodation.

Can students from any country study abroad in UK for free?

Most scholarships to study abroad in UK for free are open to international students, but eligibility varies by program and nationality.

How competitive is it to study abroad in UK for free?

Securing a place to study abroad in UK for free is highly competitive, and students should apply early and ensure their applications meet all specific scholarship requirements.

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