University Scholarships for International Students 2027: Opportunities and How to Apply

International students planning to study abroad in 2027 can already explore scholarship opportunities offered by universities in the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States and other destinations. These awards can reduce tuition fees, support living expenses or provide substantial financial assistance towards an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.

Several universities have published their scholarship offers for September 2027 entry. For example, Imperial College London is offering at least 300 scholarships worth £15,000 per year, while the University of Exeter has announced 300 scholarships worth £15,000 for eligible international students beginning their studies in 2027/28.

Other institutions, including the University of Bristol and York University in Canada, have also published scholarship information for prospective international students.

This guide covers university scholarships for international students 2027, including available awards, funding amounts, application deadlines, eligibility conditions and practical steps for applying.

The information reflects announcements available as of 2 November 2026. Always check the university’s official website before applying because scholarship conditions and deadlines can change.

University Scholarships for International Students 2027: Available Opportunities

The following universities have published scholarship information for students planning to begin their studies in 2027.

Some opportunities are already accepting applications, while others have announced awards for the upcoming academic year. Check the individual conditions before submitting an application.

1. Imperial College London Scholarships 2027

Imperial College London has announced at least 300 Imperial Inspires Scholarships for international students entering the university in autumn 2027.

The scholarships are worth £15,000 per year for eligible students paying the overseas tuition rate.

The university intends to support outstanding students across four academic areas:

• Engineering
• Natural Sciences
• Medicine
• Imperial Business School

The awards are available to international applicants for undergraduate and selected postgraduate taught courses.

Scholarship details

Category	Information
University	Imperial College London
Country	United Kingdom
Scholarship	Imperial Inspires
Entry year	2027
Study levels	Undergraduate and selected postgraduate taught
Number of awards	At least 300
Award value	£15,000 per year
Eligible students	International students paying overseas fees

The scholarship provides financial support towards tuition fees and living costs. However, applicants should not assume that the award will cover every expense associated with studying in London.

The university’s published information identifies the scholarship value and eligible study areas. Applicants should check the individual course and scholarship conditions for the application procedure and any additional requirements.

This opportunity is worth considering if you want to study engineering, medicine, natural sciences or business at a university with a strong international academic community.

Students should also remember that receiving a scholarship and securing admission are separate decisions. You must meet the academic and admission requirements for your chosen course.

2. University of Exeter Excellence Scholarships 2027/28

The University of Exeter has announced 300 Exeter Excellence Scholarships for international students beginning their studies in the 2027/28 academic year.

The awards are divided between undergraduate and postgraduate taught students.

Eligible applicants can receive £15,000 towards their tuition fees.

Scholarship details

Category	Information
University	University of Exeter
Country	United Kingdom
Entry year	2027/28
Undergraduate awards	150
Postgraduate awards	150
Award value	£15,000
Funding type	Tuition fee reduction
Application status	Open

Undergraduate recipients can receive £15,000 each year towards their international tuition fees, subject to the scholarship’s conditions.

Postgraduate taught recipients can receive £15,000 towards tuition fees for the first year of their master’s degree.

The university has opened applications for September 2027 entry. Applicants must first receive an offer for an eligible course before submitting their scholarship application.

This is an important detail because receiving an admission offer is part of the application process.

Students should identify their preferred course, submit an admission application and review the scholarship instructions sent by the university.

The Exeter Excellence Scholarship is particularly useful for applicants who have strong academic records but need financial assistance to reduce the cost of international tuition.

It is not a fully funded scholarship covering all living and travel expenses. Students should prepare a separate financial plan for accommodation, food, transport and other personal costs.

3. University of Bristol Think Big Scholarships 2027

The University of Bristol offers Think Big Scholarships to international students applying for eligible undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Applications for September 2027 entry are open, and the published deadline is 19 March 2027 at 1 pm UK time.

The scholarship provides financial assistance towards tuition fees.

Scholarship details

Category	Information
University	University of Bristol
Country	United Kingdom
Study levels	Undergraduate and postgraduate
Entry year	September 2027
Application status	Open
Deadline	19 March 2027
Funding type	Tuition fee support

To qualify, applicants must have applied for an eligible course beginning in September 2027 and be classified as overseas students for tuition fee purposes.

You do not need to have received an admission offer before submitting your scholarship application. However, you must already have applied for an eligible course.

The university accepts scholarship applications through its international scholarship application form.

By completing the form, eligible students can also be considered for other awards included in the same application process.

Undergraduate applicants may receive support for eligible in-person courses lasting up to four years. Postgraduate applicants can apply for eligible one-year taught master’s courses and master’s by research programmes.

Distance learning, online and part-time courses are excluded.

How to apply

1. Choose an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate course.
2. Submit your admission application to the University of Bristol.
3. Complete the international scholarship application form.
4. Provide accurate information about your academic background.
5. Submit the scholarship application before the deadline.

The university expects to communicate scholarship decisions by the end of May 2027.

Students should submit their applications early rather than waiting until the final day.

4. York University International Scholarships 2027

York University in Canada offers entrance scholarships and financial awards to international students beginning undergraduate studies.

The university has published its international scholarship application information for the 2027 admission cycle.

One of its major opportunities is the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence, valued at CAD $180,000 over four years.

The award provides CAD $45,000 annually to selected students.

Scholarship details

Category	Information
University	York University
Country	Canada
Study level	Undergraduate
Scholarship	President’s International Scholarship of Excellence
Total value	CAD $180,000
Annual value	CAD $45,000
Application period	November 2026 to January 2027
Student application deadline	27 January 2027

The President’s International Scholarship of Excellence is intended for outstanding international students entering eligible undergraduate schemes.

Applicants are assessed on their academic achievements and other qualities required by the university.

York University also offers other entrance scholarships and faculty-specific awards.

For example, the York Science Scholars Award provides eligible Faculty of Science applicants with an entrance award of CAD $5,000 and an additional CAD $5,000 connected to a guaranteed summer research opportunity after their first year.

Not every award is available to every applicant. Some scholarships require a separate application, while others are awarded automatically based on admission results.

Important application information

International students should submit their admission applications early enough to receive their York reference number.

The reference number is needed for the scholarship application.

The university advises applicants to complete their admission application well before the scholarship deadline because it can take several business days to receive the reference number.

Applicants should also check whether their chosen course or faculty has additional scholarship conditions.

5. Nottingham Trent University International Scholarships 2027

Nottingham Trent University offers international scholarships to eligible undergraduate and postgraduate students.

The university’s awards range from £2,000 to as much as 50% of tuition fees, depending on the scholarship and applicant.

The funding is intended for students with strong academic performance and the potential to contribute positively to the university community.

Scholarship details

Category	Information
University	Nottingham Trent University
Country	United Kingdom
Study levels	Undergraduate and postgraduate
Entry periods	January and September 2027
Award range	£2,000 to 50% tuition fee reduction
Funding type	Partial tuition support

The university has published January 2027 scholarship opportunities, while its September 2027 scholarship details are expected to be updated separately.

The January 2027 awards include NTU Excellence Scholarships, which can provide a 25% or 50% reduction in first-year tuition fees for selected applicants.

To apply, students must first receive an offer for an eligible course.

The scholarship application process allows eligible applicants to be considered for multiple awards through one application form.

Applicants should not assume that January 2027 conditions will automatically apply to September 2027 entry. Wait for the relevant scholarship information for the intended intake.

6. Royal Holloway University of London Scholarships 2027

Royal Holloway University of London has published scholarship information for international students planning to begin their studies in 2027.

The university has listed several awards for eligible undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.

These include:

• Royal Holloway International Undergraduate Scholarship.
• Royal Holloway International Master’s Scholarship.
• Royal Holloway Nigeria Master’s Scholarship.
• Royal Holloway India Master’s Scholarship.
• Royal Holloway Pakistan Master’s Scholarship.

The value and conditions depend on the particular award.

Some scholarships are considered automatically when students submit their university applications, while others require a separate application.

For January 2027 entry, the university has also announced GREAT Scholarship opportunities for eligible students from India and Nigeria.

Students planning to begin in September 2027 should check the university’s scholarship pages for updated application instructions and award details.

This university is worth considering if you want to study in the United Kingdom and your nationality is covered by one of its country-specific awards.

7. Heriot-Watt University International Merit Scholarship 2027

Heriot-Watt University is offering International Merit Scholarships to eligible international students enrolling in January or September 2027.

The awards are available for undergraduate and postgraduate taught courses at its UK campus.

The university has allocated more than £500,000 towards merit scholarships for international students.

Scholarship details

Category	Information
University	Heriot-Watt University
Country	United Kingdom
Study levels	Undergraduate and postgraduate taught
Entry periods	January and September 2027
Scholarship	International Merit Scholarship
Award value	Depends on region
Funding type	Partial tuition fee reduction

The scholarship amount depends on the applicant’s region.

In most cases, awards are applied as a reduction in first-year tuition fees.

Students should contact the university’s regional admissions team for information about the amount available to applicants from their country.

The university may require applicants to meet academic conditions and hold an offer for an eligible course.

This opportunity is worth checking if you want a university scholarship but do not necessarily need a fully funded award.

Which Universities Offer Scholarships for International Students in 2027?

The universities above are not the only institutions offering financial support to international students.

Many universities publish scholarships based on academic performance, nationality, course selection, leadership experience or financial circumstances.

The following table provides a quick comparison of selected opportunities.

University	Country	Study level	Scholarship value
Imperial College London	UK	Undergraduate and selected postgraduate	£15,000 per year
University of Exeter	UK	Undergraduate and postgraduate taught	£15,000
University of Bristol	UK	Undergraduate and postgraduate	Tuition fee support
York University	Canada	Undergraduate	Up to CAD $180,000
Nottingham Trent University	UK	Undergraduate and postgraduate	£2,000 to 50% tuition reduction
Royal Holloway	UK	Undergraduate and postgraduate	Depends on award
Heriot-Watt University	UK	Undergraduate and postgraduate taught	Depends on region

Scholarship values should not be compared without checking what each award covers.

For example, CAD $180,000 over four years is different from a one-time tuition discount of £15,000.

Also, a scholarship with a high advertised value may still leave students responsible for accommodation, transport, visa expenses and other costs.

Are University Scholarships for International Students Fully Funded?

Some university scholarships provide full financial support, but many are partial awards that reduce tuition fees.

Understanding the difference can help you choose opportunities that match your financial needs.

Fully funded university scholarships

A fully funded scholarship generally covers the main costs associated with studying abroad.

Depending on the award, this may include:

• Full tuition fees.
• Monthly living allowance.
• Accommodation support.
• Travel expenses.
• Health insurance.
• Research or study allowances.

The exact benefits depend on the scholarship provider.

Some universities offer fully funded research scholarships for master’s by research and PhD students. Others provide full tuition support but do not cover living expenses.

Partially funded university scholarships

Partial scholarships reduce the financial burden without covering every expense.

For example, an award may provide:

• £5,000 towards tuition fees.
• 25% or 50% off tuition fees.
• A fixed annual tuition reduction.
• A one-time payment towards education costs.

Students receiving partial awards must arrange funding for the remaining expenses.

How to compare scholarship funding

Before accepting an award, examine the following:

Expense	Question to ask
Tuition fees	Does the scholarship cover the full amount?
Accommodation	Is university housing included?
Living allowance	Is there a monthly payment?
Travel	Are flights covered?
Visa expenses	Does the scholarship contribute towards immigration costs?
Health insurance	Is medical cover included?
Study materials	Are books and equipment covered?

Do not rely only on the scholarship’s headline value.

A smaller award that includes living expenses may be more useful than a larger tuition discount that leaves you responsible for all other costs.

Eligibility Requirements for University Scholarships in 2027

Each university has its own scholarship conditions. However, many international scholarships consider similar factors.

Understanding these requirements before applying can help you avoid wasting time on awards that do not match your qualifications.

1. Nationality and residence

Some university scholarships accept applications from international students worldwide.

Others are restricted to applicants from selected countries.

For example, a university may offer a special scholarship for Nigerian, Ghanaian, Indian or Pakistani students.

Nationality and residence may also be treated separately. Some awards require applicants to be citizens of a particular country and currently live there.

Always read the country restrictions carefully.

2. Academic qualifications

Most university scholarships require applicants to meet the academic admission conditions for their chosen course.

Undergraduate applicants may need secondary school qualifications, while master’s applicants generally need a recognized bachelor’s degree.

Some awards also require a particular grade, degree classification or CGPA.

For research degrees, applicants may need previous research experience, a suitable academic background or an approved research proposal.

You should check the academic requirements before submitting an application.

3. Admission to an eligible course

Some scholarships are available only to students who have applied for an eligible university course.

Others require applicants to receive an admission offer before submitting a separate scholarship form.

This is why you should read both the course admission requirements and the scholarship conditions.

Do not assume that an offer for any course at a university automatically qualifies you for its scholarships.

4. English language requirements

International students may need to provide evidence of English language proficiency.

Accepted evidence may include IELTS, TOEFL or other recognized qualifications.

Some universities offer exemptions based on previous education completed in English.

However, the conditions differ between institutions and courses.

A university’s decision to waive an English test for admission does not automatically mean that another scholarship provider will accept the same exemption.

5. Personal statement and supporting documents

Some scholarships require applicants to explain their academic goals, achievements and reasons for choosing a particular university.

Supporting documents may include:

• Academic transcripts.
• Degree certificates.
• Secondary school results.
• Personal statements.
• Reference letters.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Research proposals.
• Proof of English language proficiency.

The exact list depends on the scholarship.

Prepare your documents early, especially those that require approval or signatures from your previous school.

How to Apply for University Scholarships for International Students 2027

Finding a scholarship is only the first step. You must also understand the application process and submit the correct documents.

Follow these steps to organize your applications.

Step 1: Choose your preferred country and university

Start by identifying where you want to study.

Consider the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Australia, Germany and other destinations.

Your decision should reflect your academic interests, financial situation, preferred course and long-term plans.

Do not choose a university based only on the scholarship amount.

Check the quality of the course, admission requirements, location and estimated living expenses.

Step 2: Identify an eligible course

After choosing a university, search for a course that matches your academic background.

Check the qualification required, course duration, study format and tuition fees.

Some scholarships exclude online, part-time or distance learning courses.

Make sure your intended course meets the scholarship conditions.

Step 3: Check the scholarship requirements

Read the official scholarship information carefully.

Pay attention to:

• Eligible nationalities.
• Study levels.
• Academic requirements.
• Application deadlines.
• Funding amount.
• Required documents.
• Admission offer conditions.
• Renewal conditions.

If a requirement is unclear, contact the university’s scholarship office.

Do not depend entirely on information copied from social media or other blogs.

Step 4: Apply for university admission

Many universities require applicants to submit an admission application before they can receive scholarship consideration.

Some allow students to apply for admission and funding at the same time.

Follow the correct procedure for your chosen institution.

If an admission offer is required, wait for the university’s instructions before submitting the scholarship application.

Step 5: Prepare your documents

Arrange your academic and personal documents before the application deadline.

Request your transcripts and reference letters early.

If you need a passport, make sure it is valid and that your personal details match your academic records.

Keep digital copies of your documents in a safe folder so you can access them when completing application forms.

For a more detailed explanation of the documents universities may request, read our guide to scholarship requirements for Nigerian students studying abroad.

Step 6: Write a strong scholarship statement

Some universities ask applicants to explain why they deserve financial support.

Your statement should address the actual questions in the application form.

Discuss your academic background, relevant achievements, career plans and reasons for choosing the course.

Avoid making unsupported claims or copying generic scholarship essays.

If you need help putting your ideas together, our guide to scholarship motivation letter samples and writing tips can help you understand how to present your experience clearly.

Step 7: Submit your application before the deadline

Review every section of the application form before submitting it.

Check that:

• Your personal information is accurate.
• Your course details are correct.
• Your documents are readable.
• Your references have been submitted.
• Your application answers the questions asked.
• You have used the correct application portal.

Save your application confirmation and check your email regularly for updates.

How to Find More University Scholarships for International Students

Not every university announces its scholarships at the same time.

Some publish funding opportunities a year before the academic session begins, while others release their scholarship details closer to the admission period.

You can find additional opportunities through the following methods.

Search individual university websites

Visit the official websites of universities you are interested in.

Look for sections titled:

• International scholarships.
• Fees and funding.
• Undergraduate funding.
• Postgraduate scholarships.
• Financial support.
• Research studentships.

These pages usually contain the most reliable information about available awards.

Contact international admissions offices

If you cannot find a scholarship that matches your nationality or course, contact the university’s international admissions office.

Explain your intended study level, course and country of residence.

Ask whether the university has scholarships for applicants in your situation.

Check department-specific awards

Some scholarships are offered by individual faculties rather than the entire university.

For example, an engineering department may provide financial support to outstanding students in selected engineering courses.

A university’s general scholarship page may not list every department-specific award.

Check the faculty website as well.

Apply early

Scholarship funding may be limited.

Submitting an admission application early can give you more time to identify funding opportunities and prepare your documents.

Some awards also have early application rounds.

Do not wait until you receive a university admission offer before researching every possible scholarship.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for University Scholarships

A strong academic record does not guarantee scholarship selection.

Applicants can lose opportunities because of mistakes that could have been avoided.

Applying without checking nationality restrictions

An award described as international may still be limited to certain countries.

Confirm that your nationality and residence meet the conditions.

Confusing admission with scholarship selection

Receiving an admission offer does not automatically mean that you have received funding.

Some universities make admission decisions separately from scholarship decisions.

Wait for official confirmation before making financial commitments based on an expected award.

Ignoring the application deadline

A scholarship deadline may be earlier than the general university admission deadline.

Keep a separate record of each scholarship deadline.

Submitting incomplete documents

Missing transcripts, references or other required documents can affect your application.

Use the university’s checklist and confirm that all required materials have been received.

Assuming a tuition discount is fully funded

A scholarship that reduces tuition fees by 50% does not necessarily cover accommodation, food, flights or visa costs.

Calculate the remaining amount you must pay.

Paying unofficial agents for guaranteed scholarships

No private agent can guarantee that a university will select you.

Submit applications through official university portals and verify unexpected payment requests before sending money.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which universities offer scholarships for international students in 2027?

Universities that have published scholarship opportunities for 2027 include Imperial College London, the University of Exeter, the University of Bristol, York University, Nottingham Trent University, Royal Holloway and Heriot-Watt University.

The awards differ in value, study level and application requirements.

2. Can international students get full scholarships in 2027?

Yes. Some universities offer fully funded scholarships, particularly for research degrees and selected postgraduate courses.

However, many university awards provide partial tuition support rather than covering all study and living expenses.

Read the funding conditions carefully before applying.

3. Are there undergraduate university scholarships for international students in 2027?

Yes. Imperial College London, the University of Exeter, the University of Bristol and York University have published undergraduate scholarship opportunities for eligible international students.

Some awards require a separate application, while others are considered automatically.

4. Can Nigerian students apply for university scholarships abroad in 2027?

Yes. Nigerian students can apply for scholarships that include Nigeria among their eligible countries.

For example, York University offers international entrance awards, while Royal Holloway has listed a Nigeria Master’s Scholarship.

Applicants should check the nationality and academic conditions for each award.

5. Do I need an admission offer before applying for a university scholarship?

It depends on the university.

Some institutions require an admission offer before students can apply for funding. Others allow applicants to submit a scholarship application after applying for an eligible course.

For example, the University of Bristol allows eligible students to submit a Think Big scholarship application without first receiving an admission offer.

6. Can I apply for more than one university scholarship?

Yes, provided you meet the requirements and the scholarship rules allow multiple applications.

However, some universities do not allow students to combine certain awards.

Read the conditions before accepting more than one scholarship.

7. Are university scholarships available for master’s students in 2027?

Yes. Imperial College London, the University of Exeter, the University of Bristol, Nottingham Trent University and Heriot-Watt University have published postgraduate funding opportunities for eligible international students.

Check whether your intended course is included.

8. Can I get a scholarship without IELTS?

Some universities accept alternative evidence of English proficiency or grant exemptions under specific conditions.

However, the rules differ between universities and courses.

Check the language requirements for your intended course before assuming that IELTS is unnecessary.

9. When should I start applying for university scholarships for 2027?

Start as early as possible.

Some universities have already opened their 2027 scholarship applications, while others will publish additional opportunities closer to the start of the academic year.

For example, Bristol’s Think Big application deadline is 19 March 2027, while York University’s international scholarship application deadline is 27 January 2027.

10. Do university scholarships cover accommodation and living expenses?

Some scholarships include accommodation or a living allowance, but many university awards only reduce tuition fees.

Check the funding description and calculate your remaining expenses before accepting an offer.

Conclusion

University scholarships for international students 2027 provide several opportunities to reduce the cost of studying abroad.

Imperial College London, the University of Exeter, the University of Bristol, York University and other institutions have published funding opportunities for eligible international applicants.

Some awards provide substantial financial support, while others offer tuition fee reductions.

The best scholarship for you depends on your academic qualifications, nationality, preferred course, financial needs and intended university.

Start by identifying universities that offer your chosen course. Check their scholarship requirements, prepare your documents and submit applications before the relevant deadlines.

Most importantly, verify every opportunity through the university’s official website. Do not assume that an advertised scholarship covers all expenses or guarantees admission.

Careful preparation will help you identify suitable funding opportunities and make better decisions about studying abroad in 2027.