UK government introduces highest number of fully-funded scholarships for Indian students

The UK government has announced its partnership with leading businesses in India to offer 75 fully funded scholarships for Indian students to study in the UK from September this year.

According to the government, this is the highest number of fully funded scholarships given for the one-year master’s programme to date.

HSBC, Pearson India, Hindustan Unilever, Tata Sons and Duolingo are some of the top businesses supporting this special initiative to celebrate India’s 75th year of independence.

The programmes on offer include Chevening scholarships for a one-year master’s programme, with the opportunity to study any subject at any recognised UK university. Further to this, the British Council in India is offering at least 18 scholarships for women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) – covering over 12,000 courses across more than 150 UK universities. Along with these, the British Council is also offering six English scholarships.

The announcement comes as British and Indian leaders from international business and government gather in London for the India Global Forum.

Speaking at the India Global Forum, Alex Ellis, British High Commissioner to India, said: “In India’s 75th year, this is a great milestone together. Thanks to the exceptional support from our partners in industry, I am delighted to announce 75 scholarships for Indian students to experience the best of the UK. Nearly 30% of Chevening scholars in India come from smaller cities or are first generation students, making this an increasingly diverse programme.”

CEO of HSBC, Hitendra Dave, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Chevening for the ‘Chevening HSBC Scholarship’ programme. Our objective is to encourage young people with potential to become leaders and decision makers in their fields by leveraging the world class educational facilities offered under this programme. As a British bank with a significant lineage and legacy in India, we believe we have a meaningful role to play in developing leadership talent in the country.”

During his recent visit to India, Prime Minister Boris Johnson welcomed the ‘India/UK Together’ programme, promoting the rich cultural ties between both countries. Education is one of the mainstays of the living bridge between the UK and India that connects our people through common values and affinities. Nearly 108,000 study visas were issued to Indian nationals in the year ending March 2022, almost double the number compared to the previous year.

HSBC India will sponsor 15 scholarships, Pearson India will sponsor two, Hindustan Unilever, Tata Sons and Duolingo will sponsor one each as part of the 75 scholarships.

Chevening is the UK Government’s international awards scheme offered in 150 countries, aimed at developing global leaders since 1983. India’s Chevening programme is the largest in the world with over 3500 alumni.

The fully funded scholarship includes tuition, living expenses and travel cost for a one-year-postgraduate programme. A minimum of two years’ work experience is required for candidates to be eligible for the award.