Birkbeck, University of London Scholarships for Indian Students [Updated]
- Birkbeck offers a variety of scholarships for international students, including tuition discounts, progression-based awards, accommodation support, and country-specific scholarships like the Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship for Indian students.
- Some scholarships are automatically applied at enrolment, while others, like the International Excellence Scholarship and the ISH accommodation award, require a separate application and personal statement.
- Awards range from £500 to £3,000 for tuition, up to £6,500 for housing discounts, and are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate full-time international students.
Birkbeck, University of London, is renowned not only for its world-class teaching and evening learning model but also for its strong commitment to supporting international students through a diverse range of scholarships.
From region-specific tuition discounts like the International Excellence Scholarship to progression-based awards and subject-specific funds, there’s a scholarship opportunity for nearly every type of student.
In this guide, we’ll break down all the available scholarships, their eligibility criteria, award amounts, deadlines, and how to apply, so you can make the most of your Birkbeck journey without financial stress.
Birbeck, University of London Scholarships for International Students
The Birkbeck, University of London, offers a range of scholarships specifically for Indian students. Below is a table outlining the scholarship names, award amounts, and application deadlines.
| Scholarships | Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Birkbeck International Excellence Scholarship | GBP 1,000 – GBP 3,000 | 18 May, 22 June, 20 July 2025 |
| Birkbeck-OnCampus Progression Scholarship | GBP 2,000 | Applied on enrolment |
| Accommodation Scholarships (ISH) | GBP 6,500 | 9 August 2024 |
| Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship | GBP 500/year | Applied on enrolment |
| Emily Paige Short Fund | Up to GBP 1,000 | Open year-round |
| Enabling Fund for Non-Fieldwork Expenses | Up to GBP 500 | 30 Nov, 28 Feb, 31 May |
Birkbeck International Excellence Scholarship
This regional scholarship supports full-time international students entering undergraduate or taught postgraduate programs. It aims to reward applicants who demonstrate high academic potential and is only available for the first year of study.
- Scholarship Amount: GBP 1,000 to GBP 3,000 (tuition fee discount for Year 1 only)
- Deadlines: Round 1: 18 May 2025, Round 2: 22 June 2025, Round 3: 20 July 2025
- Application Process: Must provide a 4,000-character statement demonstrating suitability
- Eligibility: Must be self-funded and enrolled in a full-time UG/PG taught course
Birkbeck-OnCampus Progression Scholarship
Designed to assist international students progressing from OnCampus foundation programs, this scholarship helps ease the financial transition into full-time study at Birkbeck.
- Scholarship Amount: GBP 2,000 (tuition fee discount for Year 1)
- Deadline: Automatically applied on enrolment by 29 August 2025
- Application Process: No application required
- Eligibility: Must be self-funded and enrolled in a full-time UG/PG taught course
Accommodation Scholarships (ISH)
Offered in partnership with International Students House (ISH), this scholarship provides subsidized housing for two international students from developing countries, enabling them to focus on academic and community success.
- Scholarship Amount: GBP 6,500 housing discount per student
- Deadline: 9 August 2024
- Application Process: Automatically awarded if found eligible
- Eligibility: Preference for those also receiving tuition scholarships or studying development-relevant programs
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
This award supports new full-time international students from India and reflects Birkbeck’s commitment to accessibility and diversity. It is automatically applied and cannot be combined with other scholarships.
- Scholarship Amount: UG: GBP 500/year for up to three years and PG: GBP 1,500 (first year only)
- Deadline: Automatically applied on enrolment
- Application Process: No application required
- Eligibility: Must be enrolling in a full-time UG (non-foundation) or PG taught course in Jan or Oct 2025
Emily Paige Short Fund
This fund supports undergraduate students in Earth and planetary sciences who seek to pursue exceptional academic activities that extend beyond their coursework. It honors the legacy of Birkbeck alumna and geoscientist Emily Short.
- Scholarship Amount: Up to GBP 1,000
- Deadline: Open year-round
- Application Process: Contact Dr. Charlie Underwood for a form
- Eligibility: Only UG students in Earth and planetary sciences are eligible
Enabling Fund for Non-Fieldwork Expenses
This fund provides additional support for non-fieldwork expenses in Earth and planetary sciences. It assists both undergraduate and postgraduate students in covering ancillary academic costs.
- Scholarship Amount: Up to GBP 500
- Deadlines: 31st May 2025
- Application Process: Complete application and submit to Dr. Eleanor Jennings with evidence of costs
- Eligibility: UG or PG student in Earth and planetary sciences
Birbeck, University of London External Scholarships
Various external scholarships are offered to Indian students aiming to study at the Birbeck, University of London. Below is a summary of each scholarship, outlining the award amounts, eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines.
| Scholarship | Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarship | 100% tuition fee | TBA for 2026-27 |
| Commonwealth Scholarship | 100% tuition fee | TBA for 2026-27 |
| GREAT Scholarship | GBP 10,000 | TBA for 2026-27 |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship | GBP 78,000 | TBA for 2026-27 |
| National Overseas Scholarship Scheme | Covers tuition fees on an actual basis | May-June 2025 |
Chevening Scholarship
The UK government offers Chevening Scholarships to Indian students who aim to become future leaders, influencers, and prominent decision-makers in their respective fields.
- Scholarship Amount: Up to 100% tuition fee waiver
- Deadline: TBA for 2026-27
- Application Process: Apply through the Chevening Portal on their official website.
- Eligibility: Students must return to India for at least 2 years after course completion. Students must also have an unconditional offer letter and have work experience of at least 2,800 hours.
Commonwealth Scholarship
The Commonwealth Scholarship, provided by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), offers full funding to Indian students for pursuing their studies at Birkbeck, University of London.
- Scholarship Amount: Up to 100% tuition fee waiver
- Deadline: TBA for 2026-27
- Application Process: Apply through the Commonwealth Portal
- Eligibility: Applicants need to have an undergraduate honours degree of at least upper second class (2:1)
GREAT Scholarships
The GREAT Scholarship is a UK-funded financial aid program for Indian students pursuing one-year postgraduate courses. It is available in various subjects and offered by multiple UK universities, including Birkbeck, University of London.
- Scholarship Amount: GBP 10,000 (tuition fees)
- Deadline: TBA for 2026-27
- Application Process: Apply through the British Council Portal
- Eligibility: Applicants need to have an undergraduate degree
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
The Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships provide financial assistance to Indian students pursuing full-time master’s programs at UK universities, including Birkbeck, University of London.
- Scholarship Amount: GBP 78,000 (tuition fees)
- Deadline: TBA for 2026-27
- Application Process: Apply through the official portal
- Eligibility: Undergraduate degree with a minimum B+ grade, for Social Sciences, Humanities, Law, minimum 65%. For Mathematics, Sciences, Environment, and related subjects, a minimum academic grade of 70%.
National Overseas Scholarship Scheme
The National Overseas Scholarship Scheme, funded by the Government of India, supports eligible Indian students from Scheduled Castes and disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue higher education in any field at UK universities, including Birkbeck, University of London.
- Scholarship Amount: GBP 15,400 (annual maintenance) and GBP 1,500 (annual contingency and equipment allowance)
- Deadline: May-June 2025
- Application Process: Apply through the official portal
- Eligibility: Applicable only to SC, ST, Denotified & Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Landless Agricultural Laborers, Traditional Artisans, etc. Applicants should possess an excellent academic record, with at least 60%, and should be no more than 35 years of age.
Cost of Study at Birkbeck, University of London
Tuition fees for international students at Birbeck, University of London, vary by program. On average, undergraduate courses range from GBP 15,000 to GBP 18,000 per year. For postgraduate taught programs, the tuition fees range from GBP 18,000 to GBP 22,000 per year, depending on the course.
In addition to tuition, students should budget approximately GBP 12,000 to GBP 14,000 per year to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, and other personal costs.
| Tuition Fee (Per Year) | GBP 15,000-18,000 (undergraduate) GBP 18,000-22,000 (postgraduate) |
| Living Expenses in London (Per Year) | GBP 12,000-14,000 |
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
Birkbeck, University of London, offers a diverse portfolio of scholarships tailored to support international students from all backgrounds. Whether you’re a high-achieving student aiming for the International Excellence Scholarship, an Indian national eligible for the Vice-Chancellor’s award, or a progressing OnCampus foundation student, there are meaningful opportunities to reduce your financial burden.
By planning, understanding eligibility requirements, and submitting a well-prepared application where required, you can position yourself for success, both academically and financially, at one of the UK’s most innovative institutions.
FAQs
Who can apply for Birkbeck scholarships?
International students enrolling full-time in undergraduate or postgraduate taught programs at Birkbeck are eligible for various scholarships. Specific awards may have additional criteria such as nationality, academic background, or subject area.
Are scholarships at Birkbeck automatically applied, or do I need to apply separately?
Some scholarships (like the Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship and OnCampus Progression Scholarship) are applied for automatically upon enrolment if you meet the eligibility criteria. Others, like the International Excellence Scholarship and ISH Accommodation Scholarship, require a separate application.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes, you may apply for multiple scholarships; however, if you are selected for more than one, you will typically be awarded the scholarship with the highest value. Scholarships generally cannot be combined.
What is the value of scholarships offered at Birkbeck?
Scholarship amounts range from £500 to £3,000 for tuition fee discounts, with special awards like accommodation support worth up to £6,500, and subject-specific grants up to £1,000. These are usually applied to the first year of study.
When are the deadlines for applying?
For the International Excellence Scholarship, there are three application rounds with deadlines on 18 May, 22 June, and 20 July 2025. Other scholarships like the Vice-Chancellor’s Award and OnCampus Scholarship are applied for on enrolment with no separate deadline.
