In a major announcement, University College London (UCL) has opened applications for its Global Master’s Scholarship 2026, designed to support outstanding international students from low-income families who dream of pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK. This initiative reinforces UCL’s long-standing commitment to creating an inclusive academic environment where talent, not financial background, determines opportunity.
About the UCL Global Master’s Scholarship
The UCL Global Master’s Scholarship offers a £15,000 award for one academic year to help international students cover tuition fees and living expenses while studying at one of the world’s top-ranked universities. A total of 85 scholarships are available for the 2026/27 academic year, including five reserved for students from India and one for a student from Japan under the Musubi Global Master’s Scholarship scheme.
The scholarship applies to all UCL full-time postgraduate taught programs and can be combined with other scholarships, depending on total funding eligibility. Recipients will have their scholarship funds first applied toward tuition fees, with any remaining amount distributed in three equal instalments throughout the year to assist with living costs.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all the following requirements:
- Hold overseas fee status.
- Come from a low-income background as defined by UCL’s household income criteria.
- Have submitted a complete admission application (including references) for a full-time Master’s degree at UCL for the 2026/27 session.
Please note that distance-learning courses are not eligible for this scholarship; applicants must be physically attending classes in London.
Selection Process
The UCL Student Funding Office will select recipients based on financial need. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted in mid-May 2026 to provide evidence of financial circumstances, and successful applicants will be informed by late June 2026.
Application Process
Applicants are required to apply through the International Master’s Awards page on the UCL website. The entire process is digital, and applicants are encouraged to complete their university admission before applying for this scholarship.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the UCL Global Master’s Scholarship 2026 is 5 p.m. BST, Thursday, 7 May 2026.
This scholarship represents an extraordinary chance for students from underrepresented and financially constrained backgrounds to join one of the most vibrant academic communities in the world. By offering a substantial financial package, UCL continues to empower bright international minds to study, innovate, and lead change globally.