UK Scholarships for Malaysian Students

Studying in the UK offers a rich academic experience combined with world-renowned institutions, drawing students worldwide, including Malaysians. Scholarships in the UK, varying in their source and scope, significantly reduce financial burdens, allowing students to access the benefits of studying in the UK. They allow international students to focus on their studies and fully experience the UK's academic and cultural offerings.

Types of UK scholarships for international students.

Universities and institutions in the UK, offer a range of scholarships, bursaries, and grants to international students seeking to study here. These fall into the following broad categories:

• Government-funded scholarships:

  Government-funded scholarships are typically extensive, covering tuition, living expenses, and often even travel costs. One of the most prestigious government-funded scholarships is the British Chevening Scholarships for International Students. It is the government's global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as well as partner organisations, a UK scholarship that Malaysian students can apply for.

• University-specific scholarships:

  Many UK universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. These are designed to attract the brightest talents globally and can be either full or partial tuition waivers or stipends.

• Private and corporate scholarships:

  Some companies and private organisations provide scholarships to support international students. These can be either in collaboration with universities or independently.

• Sector-specific scholarships

  : For those keen on specific sectors such as engineering, arts, or business, there are scholarships tailored to these fields. This can be a significant advantage for international students looking to study in the UK and specialise in a particular area.

How to get a scholarship in the UK

Eligibility criteria

Before applying to any of these scholarships in the UK, it's important that you check the eligibility requirements and criteria. To get a scholarship to study in the UK, your academic track record is pivotal, with many emphasising high academic performance.

Additionally, your involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles and volunteering can enhance your application, reflecting a multifaceted personality and commitment beyond academics. It's also crucial to ensure alignment with a scholarship's specific criteria, which may pertain to your field, level of study, or even nationality.

Application process

As competition is high when it comes to applying for scholarships to study in the UK, we recommend that you start the application process about eight to 12 months before the intake starts. Here's a step-by-step guide to streamline your application:

• Researching and identifying suitable scholarships:

  Begin with detailed research to locate scholarships in the UK that align with your academic credentials and aspirations. Use online platforms, university websites, and educational forums for information, paying close attention to each scholarship's unique criteria.

• Preparing necessary documents

  : Collect and organise essential documents like academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and relevant certificates. Ensure each document meets the specific requirements of the scholarships you're applying to.

• Understanding application deadlines and procedures:

  Keep track of the application deadlines and specific procedures for each scholarship. Adhere strictly to the guidelines provided by the scholarship authorities.

• Crafting personal statements or essays:

  Your essay or personal statement could make or break your application. To stand out from other international students vying for this, it should be authentic, showcase your passion, and explain why you're the best fit for the scholarship. Emphasising how this scholarship aligns with your long-term goals can be particularly effective.

• Preparing for interviews:

  For scholarships requiring interviews, prepare by understanding the scholarship's goals, reviewing your application, and readying yourself for potential questions about your aspirations and application rationale.

• Final submission and follow-up:

  Review your application for completeness and accuracy before submission. After sending it, if possible, confirm its receipt with the provider and keep any confirmation details handy.

Throughout, a checklist or planner for tracking requirements, deadlines, and application statuses can be instrumental in ensuring a smooth, organised process. If you are unsure, our friendly counsellors at IDP are more than happy to help guide you.

How IDP guides students towards a successful application

IDP's experienced counsellors can provide tailored advice, from identifying scholarships in the UK to pursue your master's degree or guiding you through the application process for your undergraduate scholarship. If you're wondering how to get a scholarship in the UK or need assistance crafting your application, IDP is here to help.

Undergraduate scholarships in the UK for Malaysian students

Do note that the amount of funds available and the type of award varies between institutions. For Malaysian students eyeing an undergraduate degree in the UK, numerous scholarships can provide financial assistance. Securing one of these scholarships often requires an understanding of the specific criteria and the rigorous application process. Here's a curated list of bachelor's degree scholarships available to Malaysians:

• University of Southampton:

  University of Southampton offers the Southampton ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship for ASEAN students, allocating around 10,000 MYR to support their undergraduate pursuits in the UK.

• Coventry University:

  Coventry University grants the Merit Scholarship for ASEAN Students to academically outstanding ASEAN students, with a scholarship amount of approximately 12,000 MYR.

It's essential to explore individual university websites and liaise with the scholarship offices for comprehensive information, application guidelines, and submission deadlines.

Postgraduate scholarships in the UK for Malaysian students

Securing a postgraduate scholarship is a testament to a student's dedication and academic prowess. For Malaysians aspiring to pursue advanced studies in the UK, several universities and institutions offer scholarships. Whether it's an MBA or a master's degree in another field, these scholarships not only recognise academic merit but also the potential contributions to their respective fields of study. Below is a curated list of postgraduate scholarships for Malaysian students:

• University of Southampton

  : The university offers the Southampton Postgraduate Merit Scholarship for those who secured a first-class in undergraduate studies, providing approximately 25,000 MYR.

• Coventry University

  : Coventry University rewards its graduates with the Alumni Discount scholarship, offering an amount of approximately 20,000 MYR.

Many universities offer multiple scholarships with varying criteria, ensuring broader opportunities for potential postgraduate students. Early application and a keen understanding of the scholarship requirements can give students an advantage in the competitive application process.

Fully funded UK scholarships for Malaysians

A fully funded scholarship covers the essential costs that a student would otherwise have to pay out-of-pocket. These costs typically include tuition fees, accommodation, a return flight to the student's home country, and a living allowance for daily expenses.

Some fully funded scholarships also provide an allowance for study-related materials, health insurance, and even travel costs for study-related trips. Essentially, these scholarships allow international students to focus entirely on their education without the financial stress associated with studying abroad.

Chevening Scholarship

The Chevening Scholarships, for instance, are a prominent example of fully funded scholarships available to Malaysians and other international students wishing to study in the UK. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and partner organisations, this initiative supports talented professionals who have shown prior leadership skills and exceptional performance in their respective fields. The Chevening Scholarship will often cover university tuition fees, monthly allowance, and even an economy class return airfare to the UK - apart from other additional grants and allowances for essential expenditure.

Keep in mind

Every scholarship has its eligibility criteria. In some cases, a straightforward application is all that it takes to secure the scholarship. For research-centric programs, you may have to submit written assignments.

While scholarships are useful in enhancing your study abroad adventure, other key benefits of studying in the UK include being able to tap into an excellent higher education system (which gives you a push when you kick-start your career), at the same time revelling in the compelling history and culture of the country.

Securing a good scholarship can help bring down your cost of studying & living internationally considerably. If you wish to explore university wise options, speak with your IDP counsellor for specific details. They can also assist you in finding the right scholarship.

• Aberystywyth University

• Anglia Ruskin University

• Aston University

• Bangor University

• Birkbeck, University of London

• Birmingham City University

• Brunel University

• Cardiff University

• Cardiff Metropolitan University

• Coventry University

• Cranfield University

• De Montford University

• Durham University

• Edinburgh Napier University

• Glasgow Caledonian University

• Glasgow School of Art (GSA)

• Goldsmiths, University of London

• Heriot-Watt University

• Keele University

• Kingston University

• Lancaster University

• Leeds Beckett University

• Liverpool John Moore University

• London Metropolitan University

• Loughborough University

• Manchester Metropolitan University

• Middlesex University

• Newcastle University

• Northumbria University

• Nottingham Trent University

• Oxford Brookes University

• Queen Mary, University of London

• Queen's University Belfast

• Regents University Lonodn

• Robert Gordon University

• Royal Holloway, University of London

• Sheffield Hallam University

• Staffordshire University

• Swansea University

• Teesside University

• Ulster University

• University of Aberdeen

• University of Bath

• University of Birmingham

• University of Bradford

• University of Brighton

• University of Bristol

• University of Bradford

• University of Buckingham

• University of Central Lancashire

and many more