Applications are now open for the University of Leicester GREAT Scholarships 2026, a highly competitive initiative offering a £10,000 award to outstanding postgraduate applicants from Pakistan. Introduced through a strategic partnership between the British Council, the GREAT Britain Campaign, and the University of Leicester, this scholarship serves as an important gateway for academically strong and socially driven students seeking access to world-class British higher education.
The programme continues to play a vital role in enabling international academic mobility, particularly for students planning a one-year postgraduate degree beginning in September 2026.
University Background
Founded in 1921 and located in the vibrant multi-cultural city of Leicester, the University of Leicester has earned a longstanding academic reputation for excellence in research, innovation, and teaching quality. Its campus combines modern facilities with historic architecture, offering a dynamic academic environment enriched by strong community engagement and a commitment to global impact. Over the decades, the University of Leicester has become widely recognised for its contributions to science, social sciences, humanities, and health research, establishing itself as a respected institution within the UK and internationally.
Global Rankings and International Profile
The University of Leicester maintains a consistent presence in major global rankings and is recognized for its cutting-edge research output and high teaching standards. With a diverse student population representing more than 140 nationalities, the university fosters a culturally rich academic community that supports global perspectives and international dialogue. This strong international presence provides an enriching environment for postgraduate students, enhancing academic growth and cross-cultural collaboration.
GREAT Scholarship at Leicester Offers £10,000!
The GREAT Scholarship offered by the University of Leicester provides a £10,000 reduction towards tuition fees for the 2026 academic intake. This financial support eases the cost of pursuing a one-year postgraduate degree in the United Kingdom and allows talented students from Pakistan to study at a leading institution without the burden of full tuition expenses. As part of the wider GREAT Scholarships 2026 programme involving more than 60 UK universities, recipients gain access not only to financial assistance but also to a network of academic opportunities across the UK’s higher education landscape.
Supported Programs and Language of Instruction
The scholarship supports a wide range of full-time, campus-based master’s degrees offered by the University of Leicester. Applicants may apply to any eligible one-year postgraduate programme, with the exception of PGCE qualifications. All programmes are taught entirely in English, ensuring that international students can participate fully in lectures, seminars, research activities, and academic discussions while integrating smoothly into the university’s vibrant academic culture.
Eligibility Requirements for £10,000 Award of Great Scholarship
To be considered for the University of Leicester GREAT Scholarship 2026, candidates must be permanent residents and passport holders of Pakistan and must be classified as international students for tuition fee purposes.
Applicants must hold an offer for a full-time, on-campus master’s programme beginning in September 2026, demonstrating both academic excellence and a forward-looking mindset. Priority is given to applicants with a strong academic background equivalent to a high First-Class Honours degree, as the scholarship seeks individuals capable of representing the university and the GREAT programme with distinction.
Application Period
The application window for the University of Leicester GREAT Scholarship is currently accepting online applications till 31 May 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their forms well ahead of the deadline to allow adequate time for evaluation, shortlisting, and further communication. Shortlisting and final selection will take place between 1 June 2026 and 19 June 2026, with final results communicated by 26 June 2026.
Application Process
The application process requires candidates to complete the official form and respond to specific reflective prompts demonstrating their alignment with the University of Leicester’s values. Applicants must explain, in a concise written response, how they will embody the principles of a “Citizen of Change” by contributing positively to the university community.
They must also submit a brief video outlining how their chosen programme will support their long-term academic and career aspirations. These narrative elements allow the selection committee to assess the applicant’s ambition, communication skills, and readiness for postgraduate study at Leicester.