Fully Funded UK Scholarships for Nepali Students 2025

Many academically talented students in Nepal never make it to international classrooms because of one primary barrier—finances. While their capabilities may match or exceed global standards, they often lack access to trustworthy and updated information about financial aid options. Misinformation, dependency on agents, and lack of digital literacy further complicate the problem.

This article bridges that gap by presenting a verified, practical, and reader-friendly guide to fully funded scholarships in the United Kingdom. Whether you're a final-year undergraduate student or a working professional eyeing a master’s or PhD, this guide will help you navigate real opportunities without financial burden or risk.

These scholarships are not speculative—they’re official, published by the UK government, embassies, and top universities. This guide includes eligibility details, benefits, fields of study, and direct application links. The goal is simple: support capable Nepali students in reaching global academic platforms through honest, updated information.

Why the UK for Higher Education?

The UK has long been known for its academic integrity, diversity, and global recognition. Degrees earned from British universities carry weight across industries worldwide. More importantly, the UK government and many institutions have opened doors for students from developing nations, including Nepal, by offering scholarships that cover all major expenses.

Who This Guide Is For

• Students who cannot afford tuition and living expenses abroad

• Individuals interested in quality education with global exposure

• Parents or guardians helping their children plan ahead

• Academic counselors guiding students toward real opportunities

Common Scholarship Benefits to Expect

• Full tuition fee waiver

• Monthly living allowance (stipend)

• Round-trip airfare

• Visa and health surcharge fees

• Support for research, internships, or networking

Eligibility Criteria: What Most Scholarships Require

Citizenship

You must be a Nepali citizen with a valid passport at the time of application.

Academic Background

A bachelor’s degree is a minimum for most master’s programs. For a PhD, a master’s is generally required.

Work Experience (if required)

Some programs, like Chevening, ask for a minimum of two years of work experience or equivalent in volunteer service.

English Proficiency

IELTS (6.5 to 7.5 overall) is typically mandatory. Some universities may accept TOEFL or PTE.

Intent to Return

Many scholarships, especially those from the UK government, require a commitment to return to Nepal after the course is completed.

Scholarship 1: Chevening Scholarships

• Level: Master’s (any subject)

• Host Institutions: Any UK university of the applicant’s choice

Eligibility:

• Must be a citizen of Nepal and return to the country for at least two years post-study

• Hold an undergraduate degree that meets UK standards (typically upper second-class honors)

• Have a minimum of two years (equivalent to 2,800 hours) of full-time work experience in any sector—this includes paid work, voluntary roles, and internships

• Demonstrate strong leadership abilities and a clear vision for positive change in Nepal

• Provide two professional references and submit a compelling set of four application essays

Benefits:

• Complete coverage of tuition fees at any eligible UK university

• A monthly living allowance to cover accommodation and living expenses

• Economy class round-trip airfare to and from the UK

• Cost of visa application and a travel grant to attend Chevening events in the UK

• Access to a wide global network of Chevening alumni, leadership programs, and professional workshops

Application Tips:

• Choose a course aligned with your future goals and national development priorities.

• Focus your essays on real-world impact, personal growth, and contribution to Nepal’s progress.

• Avoid vague statements—use specific achievements and quantify your experience.

• Demonstrate commitment to ethical leadership and community engagement

Deadline: Opens in early August and usually closes by the first week of November

Official Link: chevening.org/scholarship/nepal

Scholarship 2: Commonwealth Shared Scholarships

• Level: Master’s

• Host Institutions: Selected UK universities participating in the Commonwealth program

• Fields: Targeted at development-focused courses such as Education, Public Health, Engineering for Development, Agriculture, and Governance

Eligibility:

• Must be a citizen of Nepal and permanently reside in Nepal

• Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) standard

• Demonstrate genuine financial need and inability to afford a UK study without this scholarship

• Not having studied or worked in a high-income country for more than a year

• Commit to returning to Nepal after the program to contribute to national development

Benefits:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly stipend (approx. £1,347 per month in London)

• Return airfare from Nepal to the UK

• Study travel grant to cover expenses related to research, thesis work, or academic field visits

• Warm clothing allowance, if applicable

• Child or dependent allowances, subject to terms and eligibility

Application Process:

• Apply to the university and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) separately

• Applications must include academic transcripts, proof of citizenship, references, and a development impact statement

• The CSC evaluates candidates on academic merit and their potential to have a development impact in their home country.

Deadline: Typically opens in October and closes in December

Official Link: cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk

Scholarship 3: GREAT Scholarships for Nepal

• Level: Master’s

• Institutions: Multiple UK universities across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland

• Fields: Broad range including Law, Engineering, Business, Public Health, Education, IT, and Environment

Eligibility:

• Must be a citizen of Nepal

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution

• Demonstrate academic merit and interest in the selected subject

• Meet the English language proficiency requirement of the hosting university

Benefits:

• £10,000 towards the tuition fee

• Opportunities to build academic and professional networks in the UK

• Access to university-led events, mentoring sessions, and cultural exchange programs

How to Apply:

• Apply directly to the participating universities offering the GREAT Scholarship

• Each university has its own application deadline and selection process

• Prepare a strong personal statement focused on goals, motivation, and how the UK education will help you contribute back to Nepal

Deadline: Varies by institution, typically between February and June for September intake

Official Link: britishcouncil.org/study-uk/great-scholarships

Scholarship 4: Gates Cambridge Scholarships

• Level: Master’s and PhD

• Institution: University of Cambridge

Eligibility:

• Must be a citizen of any country outside the UK

• Applying to pursue one of the eligible full-time residential postgraduate degrees offered at the University of Cambridge

• Demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, intellectual ability, and leadership potential

• Clearly explain a commitment to improving the lives of others

Benefits:

• Full university tuition

• Annual maintenance allowance to cover living costs (approx. £18,744/year for 2024–25)

• One round-trip airfare at the beginning and end of the course

• Inbound visa and Immigration Health Surcharge costs

• Additional funding may be available for academic development, family allowance, fieldwork, or hardship funding on request

Application Tips:

• Applications must be submitted through the University of Cambridge's Graduate Application Portal

• A separate Gates Cambridge Statement is required, outlining fit with the program’s core values

• Applicants must provide three academic references and demonstrate alignment with the mission of the Gates Foundation

Deadline: Opens in September and closes in early December (for US applicants) or early January (for others)

Official Link: gatescambridge.org

Scholarship 5: Rhodes Scholarships

• Level: Postgraduate

• Institution: University of Oxford

Eligibility:

• Applicants must be citizens of eligible countries; Nepali students can apply under the Global or India constituency, depending on their academic background and educational history

• The age range is typically 18–23, but older applicants may be eligible depending on their qualifications and country guidelines

• Must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills, and commitment to service

• Hold a bachelor's degree (or will have completed one by the start of the program) with exceptional academic standing

• Show strong motivation to address global challenges and contribute to positive social impact

Benefits:

• Covers all university and college fees at the University of Oxford

• Provides a personal stipend to cover living expenses in Oxford (approx. £18,180/year)

• One economy class airfare to the UK and return at the end of studies

• Additional funding opportunities for conferences and fieldwork, subject to approval

Application Process:

• Submit an online application through the Rhodes Trust portal

• Provide a personal statement, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, and a minimum of five referees

• Shortlisted candidates are invited for a panel interview, which plays a key role in the final selection

• Applicants should focus on storytelling and reflect on their purpose, impact, and ethical leadership

Deadline: Opens annually in June, with specific deadlines varying by constituency

Official Link: rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk

Real Stories from Past Recipients

Sushma’s Journey to UCL through Chevening

Sushma, a development worker from Kathmandu, earned her MSc in Public Health from University College London through a Chevening Scholarship. With two years of local NGO experience, strong recommendations, and a compelling essay, she secured funding and returned to Nepal to work in maternal health policy.

Rajan’s Research at Cambridge

Rajan, a BSc graduate in Physics, applied for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship to pursue a PhD in Astrophysics. His research proposal and published papers made him a strong candidate. He now mentors Nepali students interested in STEM careers.

How to Prepare for Applications

• Start Early: Ideally, 12 months before the intake.

• Focus on Essays: Your statement of purpose often matters more than GPA.

• Contact Professors: For research-based programs, your supervisor’s support is critical

• Secure Recommendations: Choose referees who know your work, not just your title

• Practice Interviews: Mock interviews help if you are shortlisted

Tips to Avoid Scholarship Scams

• Never pay fees to agents promising scholarships

• Always apply via official university or government websites

• Be cautious of emails without institutional domains (e.g., @gmail.com)

• Check scholarship details on the embassy or university websites

Verified Sources to Use for Research

1. UK Government Education Portal (education.gov.uk)

2. British Council Nepal (britishcouncil.org.np)

3. University Websites (Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, etc.)

4. Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (gov.uk)

5. Official scholarship websites are listed above

Application Timeline Snapshot (Sample)

Who to Reach Out For Help

• Education advisers at British Council Nepal

• Previous scholarship recipients (many mentored through forums)

• University admissions officers

• Professors or researchers in your field

Final Thought

The door to the UK’s world-class education is not locked—it’s often hidden behind a wall of misinformation. Financial hardship should never compromise your academic goals if you're a committed student. With the right information, preparation, and mindset, a fully funded scholarship isn’t far from reach.

FAQs

1. Can I apply without work experience?

Yes, for scholarships like the Commonwealth or Gates Cambridge. Chevening requires experience.

2. Is IELTS mandatory?

Yes, some universities and scholarships may accept the TOEFL or waive it based on prior education.

3. Can undergraduates apply for these scholarships?

Fully funded UK scholarships primarily target postgraduate levels. Undergraduate options are limited and mostly partial.

4. Do I need an offer letter before applying for the scholarship?

For some scholarships like Chevening, no. For others like Gates Cambridge, yes.

5. What is the success rate?
Highly competitive. On average, Chevening receives thousands of applications annually, but preparation and a unique profile can improve your chances.