- Durham University offers several region-specific scholarships, and merit-based discounts to Indian students.
- Some scholarships, like the Durham International Scholarship, require no separate application.
- Tuition fees generally range from £14,000–£21,000 with living expenses in Leicester around £9,000–£13,600 annually.
Durham provides a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities tailored for international students. These scholarships are designed to support academic excellence, encourage diversity, and ease financial burdens for deserving candidates.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key scholarships available at Durham University for international students, including eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and how to apply. Whether you’re planning undergraduate or postgraduate study, this guide will help you navigate your funding options at Durham.
Durham University Scholarships for International Students
Durham University offers a variety of scholarships for international students entering undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes. These awards recognise academic achievement, potential for impact, and regional eligibility. The following scholarships provide substantial tuition fee discounts for the 2025–26 academic year.
| Scholarships | Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Durham International Scholarships | GBP 5,000/year | Rolling deadlines |
| Durham Inspiring Excellence Scholarship 5K | GBP 5,000 | 30 April 2025 / 8 June 2025 |
| Durham Inspiring Excellence Scholarship 10K | GBP 10,000 | 30 April 2025 / 8 June 2025 |
Durham International Scholarships
These region-specific scholarships provide tuition fee discounts for international students from six eligible countries who are self-funded and studying on eligible undergraduate or postgraduate taught programmes.
- Scholarship Amount: GBP 5,000 per year (tuition fee discount)
- Deadline: Rolling deadlines
- Application Process: No separate application; applicants are automatically considered upon receiving and accepting an offer.
- Eligibility: Fully self-funded and paying international tuition fees, and must not be receiving external sponsorship or other Durham scholarships
Courses Excluded
- All Business School programmes
- Undergraduate Law programmes
- Second year of a taught postgraduate programme
- PGCE
- PGCERT (Education)
- MA Conservation of Archaeological and Museum Objects
- Executive MSc in Behavioural Science
- Research postgraduate programmes
- MSW Social Work
- Graduate Diplomas
Durham Inspiring Excellence Scholarship 5K
This competitive award supports international students entering one-year postgraduate taught programmes across most faculties at Durham. Selection is based on academic achievement and potential for post-degree impact.
- Scholarship Amount: GBP 5,000 (tuition fee discount)
- Deadline: 08th June 2025
- Application Process: Apply for an eligible PG taught programme
- Eligibility: Applied to a full-time, in-person, one-year MSc, MA, LLM, or MDS programme and self-funded international student
Courses Excluded
- MBA
- MSW (Social Work)
Durham Inspiring Excellence Scholarship 10K
This award is aimed at high-performing international students applying for one of seven specific Master’s programmes. It is a merit-based, highly competitive scholarship focused on students with strong academic credentials and future leadership potential.
- Scholarship Amount: GBP 10,000 (tuition fee discount)
- Deadline: 08th June 2025
- Application Process: Automatically considered
- Eligibility: Must be self-funded
Cost of Study at Durham University
For Indian students planning to study at Durham University, undergraduate tuition fees range from approximately GBP 17,000 to GBP 22,000 per year, depending on the course. Postgraduate taught programs also fall within a similar range of GBP 19,000 to GBP 28,000 per year.
In addition to academic costs, students should budget for living expenses, which are estimated at GBP 11,000 to GBP 14,000 per year, covering accommodation, food, transport, and other personal costs.
| Tuition Fee (Per Year) | GBP 17,000 to GBP 22,000 (undergraduate) GBP 19,000 to GBP 28,000 (postgraduate) |
| Living Expenses in Durham (Per Year) | GBP 11,000-14,000 |
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
Durham University combines academic excellence with a quintessential UK university experience in a charming and historic city. While the cost of tuition and living for international students can be significant, ranging between £37,000 and £48,000 annually, the investment is often well worth it for the quality of education and student life.
With careful financial planning and possible access to scholarships or part-time work, students can enjoy all that Durham has to offer without compromising their academic goals.
FAQs
What types of scholarships are available for international students at Durham University?
Durham offers a range of scholarships, including the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships for Excellence, Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarships, and subject-specific awards for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
How can I apply for a scholarship at Durham University?
Most university scholarships require a separate application after receiving a course offer. External scholarships like Chevening or Commonwealth need to be applied for through their respective official portals.
Do I need an offer of admission to apply for scholarships at Durham?
Yes, most scholarships require that you first have an unconditional or conditional offer from Durham University before you can apply.
Are scholarships at Durham University fully funded?
Some are fully funded (e.g., Chevening, Commonwealth), while others are partial scholarships offering tuition fee discounts or living stipends. Always check the specific award details.
What are the eligibility criteria for international scholarships at Durham?
Eligibility generally depends on academic excellence, country of origin, financial need, or program of study. Each scholarship has its own criteria, so it’s important to read the fine print on the official website.
