If you are planning to study abroad in the UK in 2026, then the period of February and March 2026 is extremely important for scholarship opportunities. Many UK scholarships for international students are closing around these months, which means now is the time to prepare and apply. Scholarships can help cover tuition fees, living costs, and sometimes even travel and research expenses, making your dream of studying in the UK more affordable.
Scholarships make it possible for international students to pursue world-class education in the UK without financial stress. In this blog, we highlight key scholarships closing February – March, explain how to apply, and give practical tips for students planning to study abroad in 2026. We also introduce Kaplan International Pathways scholarships and free guidance from Global Study UK’s specialist counsellors.
If you miss these deadlines, you may have to wait another year to reapply. That’s why it’s essential to know what scholarships are closing and how to submit your best application before time runs out.
Top UK Scholarships Closing in February – March 2026
Here are some of the best UK scholarships for international students that are closing soon or have deadlines in February and March 2026. These awards range from regional funding and merit‑based scholarships to highly competitive awards.
1. Ruth First Scholarships (Durham University) — Deadline: February 28, 2026
The Ruth First Scholarships at Durham University are fully funded awards for students from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, especially from southern Africa. These scholarships help cover tuition and living costs for master’s level study. It’s a great opportunity for international students with strong academic records.
2. University of Warwick Undergraduate Global Excellence Scholarship — Deadline: February 27, 2026
The Undergraduate Global Excellence Scholarship at the University of Warwick is aimed at international students entering undergraduate degrees in 2026. This scholarship is merit‑based and provides financial support to help cover tuition fees.
This is especially valuable for international students who want to study abroad in the UK in 2026 and need help with costs.
3. University of Edinburgh Nyerere Scholarship — Deadline: February 12, 2026
The Nyerere Scholarship at the University of Edinburgh supports postgraduate study for talented students from Tanzania. It funds a one‑year postgraduate degree and is an excellent opportunity for students from Africa to pursue study abroad opportunities in the UK in 2026.
4. Allan and Nesta Ferguson Scholarships (SOAS) — Deadline: March 2, 2026
Offered by the School of Oriental & African Studies (SOAS), the Allan and Nesta Ferguson Scholarships are generous awards based on academic merit. The total value can be substantial, and they are open to international students accepted into postgraduate programmes.
5.University of Dundee Scholarships — Deadlines in Early March 2026
The Dow Memorial Trust Scholarship for Dentistry and other awards at the University of Dundee have deadlines in early March 2026, offering funding to international students in specialised fields.
Other Notable UK Scholarships for 2026
Even though their deadlines may not fall strictly in February–March, these major scholarships are worth knowing for international students planning ahead:
- Commonwealth Scholarships — Fully funded awards for students from Commonwealth countries (applications often close late 2025 to early 2026).
- GREAT Scholarships — Collaborative awards by the British Council and UK universities, offering up to £10,000 or more towards tuition.
- Chevening Scholarships — UK government‑backed fully funded master’s scholarships (interviews and shortlist decisions happen through February–April 2026, with applications having closed earlier).
- University of Sheffield International Scholarship — Offers automatic tuition fee discounts for international students accepted for postgraduate study (requires acceptance by July).
These awards are competitive but life‑changing for international students studying abroad in the UK in 2026.
Free Support from Global Study UK
Applying for scholarships, visas, and UK university programs can be overwhelming. Global Study UK offers free specialist counselling for international students, helping you:
- Identify scholarships closing February–March 2026
- Choose the right UK universities and courses
- Prepare documents for your application and student visa
- Get guidance on Kaplan International Pathways scholarships and other tuition awards
- Find student housing and understand cost of living in the UK
These free counselling services ensure that international students have expert guidance and support at every step of their study abroad journey.
Why Scholarships Matter for International Students
For international students, scholarships do more than reduce costs, they make studying abroad in the UK 2026 possible. Tuition fees and living expenses can be high, and scholarships like Kaplan International Pathways awards, SOAS scholarships, or the University of Warwick Global Excellence Award can make a huge difference.
Scholarships also help students build their CV, network with peers, and access additional university opportunities, including internships, workshops, and research projects. Even partial scholarships can reduce stress and allow students to focus on learning and personal growth.
Scholarships closing in February–March 2026 are your chance to study abroad in the UK with financial support. From Kaplan International Pathways scholarships to university-specific merit awards, international students have many opportunities to secure funding.
Take action now: start your application, prepare your documents, and get expert guidance from Global Study UK’s free specialist counsellors. Scholarships can turn your dream of studying abroad in the UK in 2026 into a reality.
🎓 Apply Now: Take the first step toward studying abroad in the UK in 2026 — secure your scholarship and start your journey today!
