Saltire Scholarships 2027 | Study in United Kingdom — Scottish Government
Scotland runs its own national scholarship brand separate from the wider UK government schemes, and the Saltire Scholarships programme is built specifically to attract talent into Scotland’s priority economic sectors.
About the Scholarship
Saltire Scholarships are supported by the Scottish Government in partnership with Scottish universities, offering international postgraduate students a tuition contribution to study a master’s degree in a sector considered important to Scotland’s economy and society. Eligible subjects typically include areas such as science, technology, creative industries, healthcare, and renewable energy, though the exact list is reviewed and published each cycle. The scholarship is designed to encourage talented graduates to build a connection with Scotland, whether or not they choose to stay on after their studies.
Each participating Scottish university manages its own Saltire Scholarship allocation and selection, so requirements and competitiveness can vary noticeably from one institution to another.
Scholarship Benefits
- A tuition fee contribution, commonly around two thousand pounds, toward a master’s degree at a Scottish university
- Access to a specific list of participating universities and priority-sector courses each year
- Recognition as a Saltire Scholar within university and Scottish Government alumni networks
- Flexibility to combine the award with other personal or institutional funding
- Exposure to Scotland’s growing sectors in technology, energy, and creative industries
- A comparatively accessible application process compared to larger national schemes
Eligibility Criteria
- Be an international student, normally from outside the UK and the European Union depending on current rules
- Hold an undergraduate degree meeting the entry requirements of your chosen Scottish university
- Apply for and gain admission to an eligible priority-sector master’s course
- Meet the English language requirements of your chosen institution
- Demonstrate genuine interest in building a connection with Scotland through study or future work
- Not already hold another scholarship covering the same tuition costs
Fields of Study Covered
Eligible courses are concentrated in priority sectors such as life sciences, technology, creative and digital industries, renewable energy, and healthcare, with the specific list published separately by each participating university.
Required Documents
- Admission application to the participating Scottish university
- A separate Saltire Scholarship application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- A personal statement explaining motivation and connection to Scotland’s priority sectors
- Proof of international student status
- Evidence of English language proficiency
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Check the Saltire Scholarships website for the current list of participating universities and eligible courses
- Apply for admission to an eligible master’s course at one of those universities
- Complete the university’s specific Saltire Scholarship application form
- Submit transcripts, a personal statement, and any other requested documents
- Monitor your application status through the university’s admissions and scholarship office
- Confirm your offer and remaining funding arrangements once selected
Selection Process
Each participating university reviews applications for its own allocation of Saltire Scholarships, generally weighing academic merit, the personal statement, and genuine interest in the relevant priority sector. Since allocations are limited per institution, a well-targeted application to a realistic course and university tends to perform better than a broad, unfocused approach.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Choose a priority-sector course where your academic background is a clear, demonstrable fit
- Explain specifically why Scotland, rather than the UK in general, matters to your career plans
- Apply early, since some universities review Saltire applications on a rolling basis
- Research the specific sector’s growth in Scotland to make your personal statement more concrete
- Compare this scholarship with broader UK-wide options like GREAT Scholarships Ghana if you are weighing destinations beyond Scotland specifically
- Keep required documents ready in advance, since some universities set early internal deadlines
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does a Saltire Scholarship provide?
Awards commonly total around two thousand pounds toward tuition, serving as a contribution rather than full funding.
Which universities take part in the programme?
Participating Scottish universities are listed on the official Saltire Scholarships website and can change each cycle.
Is this scholarship limited to specific subjects?
Yes, it targets master’s courses in sectors considered priorities for Scotland’s economy, which vary by year and university.
Do I need admission before applying?
In most cases, you apply for admission and the scholarship together through the specific university’s process.
Is this scholarship available for undergraduate study?
No, Saltire Scholarships are designed for postgraduate master’s study.
Is there a nationality restriction?
Eligibility generally targets international students from outside the UK, though specific rules should be checked each year.
Will I need an interview?
Some universities include an interview or additional assessment, while others decide from the written application alone.
Can I combine this scholarship with other funding?
Often yes, provided it does not duplicate funding for the same costs, which should be confirmed with the university.