Pursuing an MBA in the UK offers not only academic excellence but also global networking and career advancement. However, the costs can be substantial. Fortunately, a range of scholarships is available to support international students in achieving their goals. This guide outlines the most relevant MBA scholarship opportunities in the UK for 2025, helping you reduce financial barriers while gaining world-class education.
1. Government-Funded Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarship is a UK government initiative that supports international students to study one-year master’s programs, including MBAs. It provides full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend, travel costs, visa fees, and additional allowances. Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential, academic excellence, and have at least two years of professional experience.
Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
These scholarships are open to students from eligible Commonwealth countries. They cover full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. Ideal for students who want to use their education to contribute to the development of their home country.
GREAT Scholarships
In partnership with UK universities, the British Council offers GREAT Scholarships to students from selected countries. Awards typically cover up to £10,000 toward tuition fees and are available for MBA and other postgraduate programs.
2. University-Specific MBA Scholarships
University of Strathclyde – Stephen Young Global Leaders’ MBA Scholarship
This is a highly competitive, fully funded scholarship offered to exceptional international MBA candidates. It includes a complete tuition fee waiver, living stipend, executive mentoring, and leadership development opportunities. Applicants are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and global perspective.
Brunel Business School – MBA Scholarships
Brunel offers multiple scholarships for MBA students, including:
- Women in Leadership Scholarship (£16,000)
- Distinguished International Scholarship (£12,000)
- Full-time MBA Scholarship (£8,000)
Applicants are assessed on merit and may be asked to participate in university outreach activities during their studies.
University of Sussex – MBA Impact Scholarship
This scholarship offers awards ranging from £2,500 to £5,000, based on professional experience and leadership contributions. It is open to MBA applicants who can demonstrate a strong career background and impactful work in their industries or communities.
University of Glasgow – MBA Scholarships
The University of Glasgow offers a number of partial MBA scholarships for international students. Awards are based on academic merit, diversity, leadership qualities, and career achievements. There is no fixed deadline, but early application is advised.
3. UK-Wide Scholarships Open to MBA Candidates
Clarendon Fund – University of Oxford
The Clarendon Fund automatically considers all graduate applicants, including MBA students at Oxford. It covers full tuition and living expenses, and is one of the most competitive and prestigious UK scholarship programs for postgraduate study.
Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme – Oxford
This program supports students from developing and emerging economies. It covers full tuition and living costs and includes participation in an intensive leadership development program.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships – University of Cambridge
Open to outstanding international applicants, this scholarship provides full funding for tuition, maintenance, travel, and other academic-related expenses. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving the lives of others.
Cambridge Commonwealth, European & International Trust
This trust offers multiple scholarships to postgraduate students, including MBA candidates, based on financial need and academic merit. Awards vary in size and scope and are often combined with other funding sources.
4. Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application
Research Carefully
Start by identifying universities that offer MBA programs aligned with your goals and confirm whether they offer internal funding or partner with government scholarship programs.
Understand the Criteria
Read the eligibility requirements carefully. Many scholarships are restricted by country of origin, years of work experience, field of study, or prior academic achievements.
Prepare Early
MBA scholarship applications often run parallel to or shortly after university admissions deadlines. Ensure your MBA program application is submitted early enough to allow time for scholarship applications.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement
Clearly explain your motivations, leadership experience, career ambitions, and how the MBA will contribute to your long-term goals. Tailor your essays to reflect the specific values and objectives of the scholarship provider.
Showcase Leadership and Impact
Many scholarships prioritize candidates who have shown leadership in their workplace or communities. Include specific examples and measurable outcomes.
5. Summary Table of Top MBA Scholarships in the UK
| Scholarship | Provider/Institution | Value and Benefits | Key Criteria | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarship | UK Government | Full tuition, stipend, flights, visa costs | 2+ years’ work experience, leadership | November 2025 |
| Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship | UK Government | Tuition, living expenses, airfare | From Commonwealth nations, development focus | December 2025 |
| GREAT Scholarships | British Council + UK Universities | Up to £10,000 tuition support | Country-specific, academic merit | Various |
| Strathclyde MBA Scholarship | University of Strathclyde | Fully funded, mentoring | Academic excellence, global leadership | Mid-2025 |
| Brunel MBA Scholarships | Brunel University London | £8,000 – £16,000 tuition reduction | Merit-based, open to international students | August 2025 |
| Sussex MBA Impact Scholarship | University of Sussex | £2,500 – £5,000 tuition reduction | Leadership and professional impact | Rolling/Dec 2025 |
| Glasgow MBA Scholarships | University of Glasgow | Varies, merit and diversity focused | International MBA applicants | Rolling |
| Clarendon Fund | University of Oxford | Full tuition and living expenses | Academic excellence | Tied to admission |
| Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarship | University of Oxford | Fully funded with leadership training | Emerging economies, strong academics | Varies |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship | University of Cambridge | Fully funded | Academic excellence and leadership | Admission-based |
Final Thoughts
Studying for an MBA in the UK opens the door to world-class education, international exposure, and career growth. However, the cost can be a challenge—especially for students from developing or middle-income countries. Fortunately, numerous scholarships exist to help ease the financial burden, ranging from partial tuition reductions to full scholarships covering all expenses.
Whether you’re aiming for a prestigious program like Oxford or Cambridge, or targeting dynamic business schools like Strathclyde, Brunel, Sussex, or Glasgow, there are diverse opportunities available. To maximize your chances, start early, focus on clarity and authenticity in your application, and align your career goals with the scholarship’s mission.
With preparation, persistence, and a strong profile, you can secure the support you need to launch your MBA journey in the UK.
