Ucl Global Masters Scholarship 2027 | Study in United Kingdom — University College London
UCL sits among London’s most research-intensive universities, and its Global Masters Scholarship is built specifically around financial need rather than academic prestige alone.
About the Scholarship
The UCL Global Masters Scholarship supports international students from low and middle income countries who have secured a place on an eligible taught master’s programme but face genuine financial barriers to taking it up. Unlike scholarships judged purely on academic brilliance, this award weighs financial circumstances heavily alongside academic merit, reflecting UCL’s stated aim of widening access to its postgraduate programmes for students who would otherwise be unable to attend. A set number of awards are made each year, distributed across a wide range of taught master’s courses at the university.
Because the scholarship is need-based, the application process typically asks for detailed financial information alongside the usual academic documents.
Scholarship Benefits
- A tuition fee contribution toward an eligible taught master’s programme at UCL
- Consideration based on genuine financial need alongside academic merit
- Access to UCL’s wide range of postgraduate courses across multiple faculties
- Inclusion in UCL’s broader scholars and alumni community
- No separate repayment requirement after completing the degree
- The possibility of combining the award with other smaller funding sources
Eligibility Criteria
- Be a citizen of a country classified as low or middle income under current UCL and World Bank definitions
- Hold an offer of admission to an eligible taught master’s course at UCL
- Demonstrate genuine financial need that would prevent you from taking up your offer without support
- Meet UCL’s standard academic and English language entry requirements
- Submit a complete scholarship application alongside required financial documentation
- Not already hold another scholarship fully covering your tuition costs
Fields of Study Covered
The scholarship is available across a broad range of UCL taught master’s programmes, spanning social sciences, engineering, the arts and humanities, health, and the sciences, subject to the specific list published each year.
Required Documents
- UCL offer of admission to an eligible taught master’s course
- A separate UCL Global Masters Scholarship application form
- Evidence of financial circumstances
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- A personal statement outlining financial need and academic motivation
- Proof of citizenship in an eligible low or middle income country
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Apply for and secure an offer of admission to an eligible UCL taught master’s course
- Confirm your country appears on the current list of eligible low and middle income countries
- Complete the UCL Global Masters Scholarship application separately from your course application
- Submit detailed evidence of your financial circumstances
- Provide transcripts and a personal statement explaining your situation and goals
- Wait for the scholarship committee’s decision, usually communicated after the general admissions period
Selection Process
UCL first confirms that applicants hold a genuine offer of admission before reviewing scholarship applications for financial need and academic merit together. A scholarship committee considers both factors, prioritizing applicants who show clear evidence that the award would make a real difference to whether they can attend.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Apply for admission as early as possible, since you need a confirmed offer before the scholarship can be considered
- Be thorough and transparent when documenting your financial circumstances
- Explain clearly in your personal statement why this specific course matters to your future plans
- Keep academic references focused on your readiness for postgraduate study
- Compare this award with the UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship if you have a sibling or family member applying at undergraduate level
- Apply for all possible funding sources in parallel, since this scholarship alone may not cover full costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the UCL Global Masters Scholarship?
International students from low and middle income countries who hold an offer of admission and can demonstrate financial need.
Does this scholarship cover full tuition fees?
Not always, it provides a meaningful tuition contribution, but applicants may need to find additional funding depending on the course.
Do I need an admission offer before applying?
Yes, you must hold an offer of admission to an eligible taught master’s course before applying for this scholarship.
Is financial need assessed strictly?
Yes, financial circumstances are a core part of the evaluation, not simply a formality.
Does the scholarship cover PhD study?
No, it is specifically designed for taught master’s programmes at UCL.
Can I apply if I am self-funding part of my studies already?
Yes, partial self-funding does not disqualify you, though your application should reflect your genuine remaining need.
How many scholarships are awarded each year?
The number varies annually depending on available funding and the strength of that year’s applicant pool.
Is an interview part of the selection process?
Selection is generally based on the written application and financial documentation rather than a formal interview.