So, here’s a thought: What if you could earn an MBA from a prestigious UK university without breaking your bank account?
Sounds too good to be true, right? But the good news is—it’s actually possible.
For Indian students eyeing top B-schools like London Business School or Oxford, scholarships aren’t just a bonus; they’re your secret weapon.
These scholarships, some covering tuition and living expenses, are the GOLDEN TICKET to making your MBA dream a reality without drowning in debt.
Key Highlights:
- London Business School, Saïd Business School, and Judge Business School are some of the top UK B-schools offering scholarships for Indian students studying .
- The Chevening, Inlaks, and Felix Scholarships help Indian students in the UK with an average MBA scholarship of INR 67 lac, covering expenses and full tuition fees.
- Most scholarships in the UK require a separate application, and you need to apply for them while applying to the MBA program. Be sure to check the official website for details.
Ready to learn about UK MBA scholarships that could save you up to ₹70 lakhs or even more?
Stick with us as we walk you through the top scholarships, who’s eligible, and how to bag one. Because, let’s face it, everyone loves free money—especially when it’s for a world-class education!
Top 10 MBA Scholarships in the UK for Indian Students
There are a variety of scholarships to study MBA in the UK that can help you manage your study expenses. These scholarships are not just provided by top universities but also by private organisations and the UK Government.
Here are some of the scholarships offered to Indian students for studying an MBA in the UK
Name of the Scholarship |
Offered By |
Scholarship Award |
---|---|---|
Commonwealth Scholarship & Fellowship Plan (CSFP) |
Ministry of HRD, Govt of India |
Varies (Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare) |
Chevening Scholarships |
Chevening (UK Government) |
Fully funded (Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare) |
GREAT Scholarships |
UK Universities |
Varies by university (Typically up to £10,000, or INR 93,000) |
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships |
Commonwealth Scholarship Commission |
Fully funded (Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare) |
The Global 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½ Awards |
British Council, 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½ Portals, ISIC |
INR 9 lac |
Goa Education Trust |
Goa Education Trust |
Covers full or half tuition fees. |
The Skoll MBA Scholarship |
Said Business School, University of Oxford |
EUR 78,150 or 73 lac |
Felix Scholarships |
University of Oxford, Reading, SOAS |
Fully funded (Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare) |
Inlaks Scholarships |
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation |
Up to USD 100,000 (INR 93,000) (Covers tuition, living expenses) |
Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships |
Various arts/creative organisations |
Varies by award and organisation |
If you are planning to go to the UK for an MBA, explore 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½ Premium. We have helped thousands of students get admitted to premium universities like Cambridge, Oxford, and others, and we can do it for you too! Connect with us to learn more.
1. Commonwealth Scholarship & Fellowship Plan (CSFP)
Fully funded by the Ministry of HRD, Govt of India, Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan takes a massive load off your shoulders by covering tuition fees, living expenses, and even airfare. It’s a golden opportunity for students with a solid academic record who want to bring their skills back to India and make a difference.
If you’re under 45 years old, academically brilliant, and dreaming of studying in the UK, this is your shot at turning those dreams into reality!
Application Deadline |
August - November |
Amount covered |
Varies (Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare) |
Duration |
Whole Program |
Provided By |
Ministry of HRD, Govt of India |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
2. Chevening Scholarships
You can think of the Chevening Scholarship as the VIP pass to your UK MBA dreams. Funded by the UK Government, this scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and even airfare.
The scholarship also aims to build a network of global leaders, and if you’ve got two years of work experience and an undergraduate degree, this could be your ticket to becoming one of them.
Application Deadline |
August - early November |
Amount covered |
Fully funded |
Duration |
1 year |
Provided By |
Chevening (UK Government) |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
3. GREAT Scholarships
Offered by UK universities, the GREAT Scholarship provides up to £10,000 (approximately ₹10 lakhs) to academically strong students with a clear vision for their career.
If you’re a citizen of India with relevant experience and an undergraduate degree, this scholarship can help you focus on learning rather than stressing over expenses.
Application Deadline |
Jan - May |
Amount covered |
Upto EUR 10,000 (INR 93,000) |
Duration |
1 year |
Provided By |
UK Universities |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
4. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
For those with a passion for development and a desire to give back, the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is a perfect fit. Fully funded, it covers tuition, living expenses, and even airfare.
If you have a strong academic record and a heart set on making an impact in your home country, this opportunity could be exactly what you’re looking for.
Application Deadline |
February - March |
Amount covered |
Fully funded |
Duration |
1 year |
Provided By |
Commonwealth Scholarship Commission |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
5. The Global 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½ Awards
The Global 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½ Awards, worth up to INR 9 lakh, are perfect for ambitious students planning to gain international exposure. With backing from the British Council and 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½ Portals, this award supports tuition fees and also living expenses.
Application Deadline |
Twice a year |
Amount covered |
9 lac |
Duration |
1 year |
Provided By |
British Council, 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½ Portals, ISIC |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
6. Goa Education Trust
The Goa Education Trust scholarship covers full or partial tuition fees for a one-year Master’s degree at UK universities. If you’re under 30, hold an unconditional offer, and are ready to represent Goa on an international stage, this scholarship is for you.
Application Deadline |
Varies (Depends on the UK university's admission deadline) |
Amount covered |
Full or half tuition fees |
Duration |
1 year |
Provided By |
Goa Education Trust |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
Ready to find your perfect MBA program in the UK? Use 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½'s College Finder tool to explore top universities that match what you're looking for!
7. The Skoll MBA Scholarship
The Skoll MBA Scholarship at Said Business School, Oxford, covers full tuition fees (around ₹73 lakhs), it’s awarded to those with at least three years of experience in social entrepreneurship.
Application Deadline |
January (Round 3 Oxford MBA application deadline) |
Amount covered |
73 lac |
Duration |
1 year |
Provided By |
Oxford University |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
8. Felix Scholarships
The Felix Scholarship does helps Indian students at universities like Oxford, SOAS, and Reading. From tuition fees to living expenses and airfare, everything’s covered. If you’re an academically brilliant student with a Bachelor’s degree and a commitment to returning to your home country post-graduation, this scholarship is your answer.
Application Deadline |
January - March |
Amount covered |
Fully funded |
Duration |
Duration of the Program |
Provided By |
University of Oxford, Reading, SOAS |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
9. Inlaks Scholarships
With funding up to USD 100,000 (around ₹93 lakh), Inlaks Scholarships covers tuition fees, living expenses, and more for postgraduate studies. Open to Indian students under 30 with a standout academic record, this scholarship can make your MBA dream come true without financial stress.
Application Deadline |
January - April |
Amount covered |
Up to USD 100,000 (INR |
Duration |
1-2 years |
Provided By |
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
10. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships
For Indian artists and creative professionals, this scholarship offers financial support covering tuition, living expenses, and more, it’s perfect for those in creative fields who want to elevate their skills in the UK.
Application Deadline |
Varies |
Amount covered |
Varies by award and organisation |
Duration |
Varies |
Provided By |
Various arts/creative organisations |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
Eligibility Requirements to Apply for an MBA Scholarship in the UK
As a scholarship applicant, there are several eligibility criteria you’ll have to fulfill for both half and fully-funded MBA scholarships in the UK. There’s high competition for these awards, so you should make your profile stand out among the rest of the applicants to be selected for your scholarship.
Let us have a look at a few generic eligibility criteria that most MBA funding options UK require from applicants:
- The applicant must be an international student.
- The applicant must show excellent academic status and prove his or her capacity.
- The applicant should be eligible to apply for an MBA degree.
- The applicant should have experience in international business management.
- A good GMAT or GRE score is also required.
- At least two outstanding letters of reference.
Other than these, some universities and scholarship agencies in the UK might also require additional eligibility criteria owing to the high competition for the same. If you are looking forward to securing your scholarship for MBA funding in the UK for Indian students, you are advised to work on your portfolio and resume to make it stand out from the rest of the crowd.
What is the MBA Cost in the UK for an Indian Student?
The cost of studying for an MBA in the UK ranges from INR 18 lacs to INR 55 lacs (EUR 20,000 to EUR 60,000) for tuition fees, depending on the university and program. Additional expenses, including living costs, materials, and travel, can add another INR 9.3 lacs to INR 13 lacs (EUR 10,000 to EUR 15,000) annually.
Indian Students should budget around INR 27 lacs to INR 70 lacs (EUR 30,000 to EUR 75,000) for completing an entire MBA program in the UK.
Tuition Fees
The average tuition fees for an MBA in the UK range from EUR 30,000 to EUR 50,000 (approximately INR 30 lac to 50 lac). Fees can vary significantly based on the university and the program's reputation.
University |
Tuition Fees (GBP) |
Tuition Fees (INR) (Approx. in lacs) |
Duration |
---|---|---|---|
University of Oxford (Saïd) |
£71,540 |
58.7 lacs |
1 year |
University of Cambridge (Judge) |
£70,000 |
57.5 lacs |
1 year |
London Business School |
£109,700 |
90.6 lac |
15-21 months |
Imperial College Business School |
£61,500 |
50.8 lacs |
1 year |
University of Warwick (Warwick Business School) |
£51,200 |
42.5 lacs |
1 year |
Cost of Living in UK
The average cost of living in the UK for an Indian student is approximately INR 12 lac to 15 lac (EUR 12,000 to EUR 15,000) per year.
This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses, varying by location and lifestyle. Living costs in the UK differ based on the city, lifestyle, and type of accommodation. While London is generally pricier, other cities provide more budget-friendly alternatives.
Expense Category |
Estimated Monthly Cost (GBP) |
Estimated Monthly Cost (INR) (Approx. in lacs) |
---|---|---|
Accommodation (rent) |
£500 - £1,200 |
INR 41,500 - INR 1,00,000 |
Food and Groceries |
£150 - £300 |
INR 12,450 - INR 24,600 |
Utilities (electricity, water, internet) |
£50 - £150 |
INR 4,150 - INR 12,450 |
Transportation (public) |
£50 - £100 |
INR 4,150 - INR 8,300 |
Personal Expenses (clothing, entertainment, etc.) |
£100 - £300 |
INR 8,300 - INR 24,600 |
51³ÉÈ˵¼º½ Materials |
£40 - £100 |
INR 3,300 - INR 8,300 |
Miscellaneous |
£50 - £100 |
INR 4,150 - INR 8,300 |
How to Apply for MBA Scholarships in the UK?
Applying for scholarships abroad isn’t complicated. You can directly apply on the website of that particular business school. In case of confusion, you can also reach out to the admin department of your desired university to guide you through the process.
To apply for scholarships for an MBA in the UK:
Step 1: Visit the official website of the university
Step 2: Understand the eligibility criteria for the university scholarship.
Step 3: Gather the necessary documents.
Step 4: Submit the required exam scorecards (GMAT, IELTS).
Step 5: Register and apply for the MBA scholarship online.
Step 6: Await the university's response.
Types of MBA Scholarships in the UK
There are many types of MBA Scholarships in the UK. All the way from general scholarships to the preferred programs and merit based scholarships, the UK offers many scholarships designed for students.
Let’s break it down so you can figure out which one fits you best.
1. Merit-Based Scholarships
These scholarships are all about rewarding students who’ve done exceptionally well in academics or professional achievements. If you’ve got a strong GMAT score or a standout undergraduate degree, this might be the right fit for you.
2. Need-Based Scholarships
If paying for an MBA feels like a stretch, need-based scholarships can step in to help. They’re designed for students who need financial support, covering tuition fees, living expenses, or sometimes both.
3. Diversity Scholarships
These scholarships try to bring a mix of perspectives to the classroom. They support students from underrepresented backgrounds—whether that’s based on nationality, gender, or unique experiences.
4. Leadership Scholarships
Have you been the one calling the shots at work or leading a community project? Leadership scholarships recognize those skills and help students who can bring big ideas and energy to their MBA program.
5. Industry-Focused Scholarships
If you’ve got your eyes set on a specific career, like finance, healthcare, or tech, Industry-focused scholarships focus on helping students with interests in particular industries. They’re often backed by partnerships between universities and companies.
6. Government Scholarships
Programs like Chevening and Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are funded by the UK government and cover most of your costs—tuition, living expenses, and even travel.
7. University-Specific Scholarships
Most universities offer their own scholarships for MBA students. These can range from a partial fee waiver to full funding, and they usually consider a mix of your academic record, work experience, and career plans.
8. External Organization Scholarships
Scholarships from organizations like the British Council or Inlaks Foundation are another great option. They mostly focus on leadership, niche fields, and cultural exchange.
How to Get Fully Funded MBA Scholarship in the UK?
Alright, so you’ve gone through the scholarships and picked your favorites—now comes the big question: how do you actually get an MBA Scholarship in the UK?
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back.
Landing an MBA scholarship in the UK isn’t rocket science, but it does take some planning, effort, and a pinch of strategy. Let’s break it down so you’re ready to ace it!
The trick lies in standing out—showing the selection committees why you deserve the scholarship.
Here’s how to do just that:
- Start early, stay ahead - Scholarships aren’t last-minute deals. Deadlines sneak up fast, so make sure you’re researching scholarships and gathering documents well in advance—ideally a year before your MBA program starts.
- Showcase what makes you shine - Leadership skills? Check. Work experience? Double check. Universities and organizations love candidates who’ve made an impact, so flaunt your achievements and any real-world problems you’ve tackled. Be it leading a project at work or volunteering for a cause, it all counts!
- SOP: Your personal spotlight - Your Statement of Purpose is your story, make it inspiring, but don’t oversell—stay authentic. Talk about why an MBA in the UK is your dream, how the scholarship can make it possible, and what you aim to achieve after graduating.
- LORs that speak for you - A great Letter of Recommendation is like a vote of confidence from someone who knows your potential. Choose recommenders who can genuinely highlight your skills, growth, and leadership abilities.
- Get that GMAT (If Needed) - Some scholarships value high test scores, so if the GMAT or GRE is on the table, aim for a strong score. It’s not mandatory everywhere, but it can boost your profile for merit-based scholarships.
- Be honest about financial need - If you’re applying for need-based scholarships, be upfront about your financial circumstances. Provide the necessary documents to back up your application.
- Don’t stop at one scholarship - Why limit yourself? Apply for multiple scholarships—government-funded, university-specific, and private ones. The more you apply, the better your chances!
- Prepare to impress in interviews - If there’s an interview round, treat it like a conversation about your goals, not an interrogation. Be confident, know your story, and show them how their investment in you will pay off.
See? It’s all about presenting your best self while staying true to your story.
From the Desk of 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½
Scholarships for MBA programs in the UK offer Indian students significant financial support. Prestigious awards like the Chevening Scholarship, Inlaks Scholarship, and Felix Scholarship cover substantial tuition and living costs, while university-specific scholarships such as the Dean’s Impact Scholarship and Cambridge Judge Dean’s Scholarship award academic and leadership excellence. With a range of scholarships based on merit, leadership potential, and diversity, Indian students have various opportunities to pursue an MBA in the UK for the 2024-25 academic year. Applying early and meeting specific eligibility criteria is key to securing these scholarships.
Are you an Indian student looking to pursue an MBA in the UK for the 2024-25 academic year? Scholarships like the Chevening, Inlaks, and Felix Scholarships, along with university-specific awards, can significantly reduce your tuition and living costs. To maximise your chances, it's essential to apply early and meet the eligibility criteria. At 51³ÉÈ˵¼º½, we offer a free consultancy call to guide you through the scholarship opportunities, application processes, and eligibility requirements. Let us help you unlock world-class education with the financial support you need. Book your free call today!