by Soniya Basu | May 23, 2025 | Student Life, UK Education
Your ultimate funding guide for studying abroad, desi-style | ScottishIndian.com
Looking for scholarships for Indian students in the UK? You’re in the right place. At ScottishIndian.com, we understand that pursuing higher education abroad is a dream for many, but it comes with financial challenges. That’s why we’ve curated this ultimate guide featuring the top 10 scholarships for Indian students in the UK in 2026. From government-funded awards to university-specific programs, this blog will help you get the support you need to fund your study abroad journey.
For more information on preparing for your move, check out our guide on Pre-Departure Checklist for Indian Students.
🌟 1. Chevening Scholarships
- Who’s it for? Outstanding Indian students pursuing a one-year master’s degree.
- Covers: Tuition, living costs, flights, and more.
- Application Timeline:
- Opens: August 2025
- Deadline: 5 November 2025 at 12:00 GMT
- More Info: chevening.org
🌍 2. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
- Who’s it for? Postgraduates from Commonwealth nations, including India.
- Covers: Full tuition, airfare, and a monthly stipend.
- Application Timeline:
- Opens: September 2025
- Deadline: 15 October 2025 at 16:00 BST
- More Info: study-uk.britishcouncil.org
🎨 3. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships (CWIT)
- Who’s it for? Indian mid-career professionals in arts, heritage, or humanities.
- Covers: Living costs, tuition, accommodation, and visa.
- Application Timeline:
- Opens: January 2026
- Deadline: 28 February 2026
- More Info: charleswallaceindiatrust.com
🏛️ 4. Rhodes Scholarship (University of Oxford)
- Who’s it for? Exceptionally students with leadership potential.
- Covers: Full expenses plus a generous stipend.
- Application Timeline:
- Opens: 2 June 2025
- Deadline: 23 July 2025 at 23:59 IST
- More Info: rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk
💼 5. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
- Who’s it for? Indian students applying to top UK universities.
- Covers: Tuition and living allowance (up to $100,000 USD).
- Fields: Arts, design, humanities, social sciences.
- Application Timeline:
- Opens: 1 November 2025
- Deadline: 22 March 2026
- More Info: inlaksfoundation.org
🌐 6. GREAT Scholarships – India
- Who’s it for? Indian students applying for postgraduate courses.
- Covers: Up to £10,000 towards tuition fees.
- Participating Universities: Over 40 across the UK.
- Application Timeline: Varies by institution; typically opens in early 2026.
- More Info: britishcouncil.in
🧠 7. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
- Who’s it for? Full-time postgraduate students at the University of Cambridge.
- Covers: Full cost plus extras like family allowance.
- Application Timeline:
- Opens: 4 September 2025
- Deadline: December 2025 or January 2026 (dependent on course)
- More Info: gatescambridge.org
🏫 8. University-Specific Scholarships
- University of Edinburgh Global Scholarships:
- University of Glasgow International Excellence Award:
- Application Timeline: Opens March 2026
- Deadline: 1 May 2026
- More Info: gla.ac.uk
- University of Aberdeen South Asia Scholarship:
- Application Timeline: No separate application required; applies automatically upon admission.
- More Info: abdn.ac.uk
🏴 9. Saltire Scholarships (Scotland)
- Who’s it for? Students from India enrolling in Scottish universities.
- Covers: £8,000 towards tuition fees.
- Application Timeline: Opens February 2026
- More Info: scotland.org
🌍 10. Education Future International Scholarship (India)
- Who’s it for? Self-funded Indian students heading abroad.
- Covers: Partial funding up to ₹10 lakh.
- Application Timeline:
- Opens: 1 September 2025
- Deadline: Rolling; final results announced around September 2026
- More Info: education-future.org
Securing a scholarship can significantly ease the financial burden of studying abroad. It’s crucial to start your application process early, keep track of deadlines, and ensure all your documents are in order.
For more tips and guidance on studying in the UK, stay tuned to ScottishIndian.com.
by Soniya Basu | Apr 11, 2025 | Student Life, UK Education
For International students planning to study in the UK, applying for a student is one of the most crucial steps. Understanding the visa requirements, necessary documents, and the process itself can ensure a smooth transition. This guide outlines everything you need to know about securing your UK student visa, from eligibility to application tips, so you can begin your academic journey with confidence.
1. Types of Student Visas Available
The UK offers different visa categories for students depending on their age, course length, and study type:
- Student Visa (Tier 4): For full-time degree-level or above courses.
- Child Student Visa: For students aged 4-17 attending independent schools.
- Short-Term Study Visa: For short courses like English language programs lasting 6-11 months.
For most university students, the Tier 4 Student Visa (often called simply the Student Visa) is the primary option.
2. Eligibility Requirements for UK student visa
To apply for a UK Student Visa, students must meet several eligibility criteria:
- Acceptance from a Recognized Institution: A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK university is required.
- English Language Proficiency: Most Indian students need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
Note– You don’t need this if your medium of instruction was English in your previous study. Just get a medium of Instruction letter from your previous college or university
- Financial Proof: Evidence of funds covering tuition and living expenses, such as bank statements, is essential. Currently, living cost proof is set at £1,334/month in London and £1,023/month outside London.
- Health Surcharge: Payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
3. Key Documents Needed for the UK Student Visa Application
When applying, students will need the following documents:
- Passport: A valid passport or other travel identification.
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies): Issued by your UK institution.
- Proof of Finances: Bank statements, loan letters, or scholarships.
- English Language Test Results: Required for non-native speakers.
- Health Surcharge Receipt: Proof of the IHS payment.
- Tuberculosis Test: International students must take a TB test at an approved clinic.
All documents should be translated to English if needed and must meet the UKVI standards to avoid delays.
4. Step-by-Step Application Process
- Apply Online: Begin the application on the UK Government website under the Student Visa section.
- Pay the Application Fee: As of now, it’s approximately £363 for the Student Visa.
- Submit Biometrics: Visit a visa application center to submit fingerprints and a photograph.
- Wait for a Decision: Decisions typically take 3-4 weeks for international students. You may check for priority processing options if you need faster results.
5. Priority Processing: Expedited Options for Urgent Applications
If you need your visa decision faster, the UK offers two expedited processing services for an additional fee:
- Priority Service: Provides a decision within 5 working days after biometrics submission, available for an additional fee of around £500.
- Super Priority Service: Provides a decision within 24 hours after biometrics submission, costing an additional £800.
It’s essential to check availability for these services, as they may not be offered at all visa centers. Plan accordingly and only opt for expedited processing if you have an urgent need to enter the UK quickly.
6. Tips for Financial Documentation: Ensuring a Smooth Process
- Consistency in Financial Proof: Ensure the required balance has been consistently available in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying. Sudden or recent deposits may trigger additional checks.
- Use Recognized Bank Statements: Print statements from a reputable bank that meets UKVI’s requirements. Statements should show your name, bank details, and sufficient balance.
- Consider Educational Loans: If using an educational loan, ensure it is issued by a reputable financial institution and includes your name, loan amount, and purpose for study in the UK.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid for UK student visa
- Inadequate Financial Proof: Ensure your bank statements show the required balance consistently.
- Incomplete Documentation: Double-check every document and translation.
- Not Booking TB Test Early: Delays in the TB test can push back your entire application timeline.
Securing a UK student visa as an international student can be a straightforward process if well-prepared. By understanding eligibility, gathering the right documents, and applying carefully, you can ensure a smooth start to your studies in the UK. Be proactive, stay organized, and reach out to your university’s international office if you need guidance during the process.
by Soniya Basu | Apr 10, 2025 | Student Life, UK Education
Libraries, Tutoring, and Counselling
(Because you’re paying for it, so why not use it like a pro?)
So, you’re navigating the whirlwind of university life in UK – juggling assignments, maybe a part-time job, societies, and that ever-growing laundry pile. But here’s a smart move many students overlook: tapping into your free University resources.
These built-in support systems are the ultimate academic hack, whether you’re an international student finding your feet or a local looking for an edge. Let’s explore how to make the most of University resources like libraries, tutoring, and counselling – and use them like a pro. 👇
🏛️ 1. The Library: More Than Just Books and Silence
Sure, libraries have books, but they also have WAY more than you think:
- Study spaces: Quiet zones, group pods, chill zones with beanbags — pick your vibe.
- Online access: E-books, academic journals, documentaries — all free through your student login.
- Workshops: Time management, referencing, research skills — aka everything you’ll pretend to Google during deadlines.
- Librarians: Literally superheroes in disguise. Ask them for help finding sources, formatting citations, or navigating databases.
💡 Library hack: Book private study rooms for group projects or solo cram sessions. They usually come with screens and whiteboards = productive energy unlocked.
📘 2. Academic Support & Tutoring Resources: Your Free Upgrade
Struggling with an essay? Confused by that one lecturer who talks like Shakespeare? That’s where academic skills centres and peer tutoring step in.
- One-on-one tutoring: Many unis offer subject-specific support from trained peers or academic staff.
- Writing & math support: Whether it’s structuring an essay or not dying inside during statistics class, help is available.
- Online support: Drop-in Zoom hours or email-based help = accessible from your bed (no judgment).
💡 Gen Z Tip: Some unis even use AI tools or apps to help track your writing progress. Ask around — don’t sleep on the tech.
🧠 3. Counselling Services: Mental Health is Health
Let’s normalize this: it’s okay not to be okay. Whether it’s homesickness, burnout, or anxiety — most universities offer free, confidential counselling services for students.
- Drop-in sessions: Perfect if you need someone to talk to without committing long-term.
- Scheduled counselling: Weekly or biweekly therapy with trained professionals.
- Wellbeing workshops: Learn to manage stress, sleep better, and build resilience — all free.
🌱 Wellness Bonus: Many University campuses also have student support apps, mindfulness zones, and peer-led mental health groups.
🧠 Too Long Don’t Read: You’ve Got Tools. Use Them.
Here’s the deal — you’re already paying for these services with your tuition and student fees. So don’t let them go to waste. The UK university system is built to support your success, not watch you struggle in silence.
So whether you’re deep in dissertation despair or just want a quiet corner to vibe with your coffee and notes, there’s a resource for you.
by Soniya Basu | Apr 10, 2025 | Student Life, UK Education
Moving to the UK for studies? The lectures, the accents, the essay deadlines—it’s a vibe. But it’s also a shift. Whether you’re coming from India or anywhere else, adjusting to the UK education system can feel like a full-on cultural reset. But don’t stress—we got you. Here’s your go-to guide to not just surviving, but thriving academically in the UK. 📚✨
📖 How the UK Education System Hits Different
Let’s start with the basics. UK universities are big on:
- Independent learning – Think less spoon-feeding, more DIY.
- Critical thinking – You’re encouraged to question, challenge, and analyze.
- Essays > Exams – Yep, welcome to the world of citations and long-form arguments.
- Seminars & group work – Your participation actually matters (and it’s noticed).
1. 👩🏫 Understand the Grading System
UK grading can be confusing at first. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- 70%+ = First class (aka top tier!)
- 60–69% = Upper Second (2:1 – still v respectable)
- 50–59% = Lower Second (2:2)
- 40–49% = Pass
- Below 40% = Uh-oh 😬
Pro Tip: A 70% here is NOT the same as 70% back home. It’s actually excellent. So don’t panic if your grades seem “low” at first.
2. 🧠 Master Time Management (Before It Masters You)
Between lectures, readings, part-time jobs, and just trying to be a functioning adult—it’s easy to feel swamped. Use tools like Notion, Google Calendar, or even a good old planner to block your week.
Set goals, break tasks down, and don’t leave that 3-4k word essay for the night before. (Been there, regretted that.)
3. ✍️ Get Good at Referencing (Seriously)
The UK is strict about academic integrity. That means no plagiarism, and yes, that includes copy-pasting your own previous work. Learn how to reference properly—whether it’s Harvard, APA, or MLA, your uni will tell you what style to follow.
Sites like CiteThisForMe or Zotero can save your life during deadline week.
4. 💬 Ask for Help (It’s Normal Here)
Struggling? Don’t ghost your professors. Email them, show up to office hours, or chat with your personal tutor. They want to help. Most unis also have academic skills centers for writing, presentations, and even math support.
And don’t underestimate the power of peer study groups. Library coffee + collective panic = surprising productivity 😅
5. 🌍 Embrace the Culture Shift
From group discussions to late-night library grinds, the UK student vibe is different—but low-key amazing once you settle in. Participate in seminars, get involved in societies, and don’t be shy to speak up—even if your accent is different. That diversity? It’s your superpower.
Adjusting to the UK education system might take a hot minute, but trust—it’s worth it. With the right mindset, tools, and support, you’ll not just catch up—you’ll glow up academically.
Stay curious, stay organized, and never be afraid to ask questions.
Want more UK student life tips? Check out our blogs on budgeting, accommodation, and mental health for international students. scottishindian.com has your back! 💪🇬🇧
