The GREAT scholarship at Manchester University is one of the most significant postgraduate funding opportunities available to international students looking to pursue a one-year Master’s degree in the United Kingdom. This scholarship is offered in collaboration with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, designed to strengthen educational ties and support talented students from select countries. It’s a competitive and prestigious award aimed at students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential. In this article, we will explore all the details about the GREAT Scholarship at Manchester University.
What Is the GREAT Scholarship?
The GREAT scholarship at Manchester University is part of a larger UK-wide initiative to provide financial support to international students. This specific scholarship is targeted at students from countries such as Bangladesh, Ghana, and Pakistan applying for a full-time, on-campus taught Master’s programme at the University of Manchester for the 2026 academic year. The scholarship’s value is typically set at £15,000, awarded as a direct reduction in the overseas tuition fee cost. As part of the programme, the GREAT scholarship at Manchester University enables recipients to study at one of the UK’s most respected research institutions. The university is known for its cutting-edge research, strong global rankings, and vibrant multicultural student community, making it an ideal choice for ambitious learners.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility for the GREAT scholarship at Manchester University has a few important criteria:
- Applicants must be citizens and permanent residents of one of the eligible countries primarily Bangladesh, Ghana, or Pakistan for the University of Manchester awards.
- Candidates must hold an offer (conditional or unconditional) to study a one-year, full-time taught Master’s programme starting in September 2026.
- The scholarship also applies to most taught Master’s programmes, but some courses are excluded, such as MBA, MPhil, certain architecture degrees, PGCE, medicine, and dentistry.
Prospective applicants should also carefully check the specific list of eligible programmes and exceptions before applying, as some research Master’s programmes and professional qualifications may not be covered.
What Are the Value and Benefits?
The GREAT scholarship at Manchester University is mainly worth £15,000 for most eligible countries, though there are reports that some country allocations such as Ghana that may offer awards up to £18,000. The primary benefit of the GREAT scholarship is financial as it reduces the tuition fee burden substantially, making postgraduate education in the UK more affordable. Unlike loans, this award does not have to be repaid. It is paid as a discount against your tuition fees, meaning you pay less upfront to the university.
Beyond the monetary value, recipients of the GREAT scholarship at Manchester University gain several intangible advantages, including:
- Enhanced academic and professional recognition.
- Networking opportunities with an international cohort of scholars.
- A strong addition to CVs when applying for jobs or further study.
How and When to Apply?
Applications for the GREAT scholarship at Manchester University typically open in December 2025 for students who have already received an offer to study at the university. Relevant offer-holders will be emailed a scholarship application form by the University’s International Office.
Key dates to remember include:
- Scholarship applications open
December 2025 - Deadline for applications
23 April 2026 (subject to variation by nationality)
To apply, candidates must first secure a place on an eligible Master’s programme and then complete the scholarship application form after receiving it by email. This two-stage process is applying for admission followed by the scholarship as it ensures that only confirmed or prospective students are considered.
What is the Selection Criteria?
The selection process for the GREAT scholarship at Manchester University is competitive. The University usually selects recipients based on:
- Academic merit and prior achievements.
- Quality of the responses in the scholarship application form.
- Motivation and potential to act as an ambassador for the GREAT Scholarship programme.
Each country’s award is limited for example, one scholarship per eligible country at Manchester, so the competition is strong. Applicants are also advised to put careful thought and effort into their statement and supporting documents to stand out.
Why Should Students Choose Manchester University?
Studying with the help of the GREAT scholarship at Manchester University also means studying at a global leader in education. The university is also a part of the prestigious Russell Group and has a rich history of research excellence and innovation. Manchester’s vibrant student life, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections provide excellent preparation for future careers. For international students, being part of this community can be both personally enriching and professionally transformative.
What Are the Tips for a Successful Application?
To maximize your chances when applying for the GREAT scholarship at Manchester University, consider the following:
- Apply Early
Complete your programme application well before scholarship deadlines to ensure you receive the scholarship form. - Showcase Your Strengths
Use your personal statement to highlight academic achievements, leadership qualities, and career goals. - Understand Eligibility
Ensure the Master’s programme you choose is eligible for the scholarship. - Prepare Documents
Have transcripts, references, and any supporting material ready in advance.
Other than GREAT scholarship at Manchester University, you can also explore Developing Solutions Scholarship 2026 Nottingham University
FAQs
1. What programmes are eligible for the GREAT scholarship at Manchester University?
The scholarship applies to most full-time, one-year taught Master’s programmes at Manchester, excluding select degrees such as MBA, MPhil, many architecture courses, PGCE, medicine, and dentistry.
2. How do I apply for the GREAT scholarship at Manchester University?
First, secure a conditional or unconditional offer for an eligible Master’s course. Once you have an offer, the University’s International Office will email you a scholarship application form, which you must submit by the specified deadline.
3. When is the deadline for applying to the GREAT scholarship at Manchester University for 2026?
The official deadline for submissions is typically 23 April 2026, but applicants should check country-specific details in case earlier cut-offs apply.
