🌍 Introduction

Studying at the University of Westminster in London gives access to world-class programmes, a global student body, and huge cultural & professional opportunities. But London living costs and tuition can be a financial challenge. To help, Westminster offers multiple scholarships, awards, and bursaries in 2025/26 for both UK (home) and international students to reduce financial burdens.

This guide lays out what funding is available, who can apply, the benefits on offer, and the steps to apply — to help you plan your funding strategy more effectively.

👉 Apply early! Many scholarships have strict deadlines, with some closing as early as June 2025.
Complete Westminster Application Guide

✨ Why Choose the University of Westminster?

🎓 Key Scholarships & Awards at Westminster 2025/26

Here are some of the main schemes to be aware of:

Scholarship / Award Eligibility Benefit Application Required?
GREAT Scholarships at Westminster International students from certain countries; for full-time postgraduate taught Master's programmes (2025-26) £10,000 off tuition fees Yes — must apply by the deadline (23 June 2025 for the GREAT scheme)
Postgraduate Sanctuary Scholarship Students seeking asylum in the UK who are not eligible for standard student finance; international or refuge status; starting postgraduate study at Westminster Full tuition fees covered + up to £12,000 maintenance (for up to 12 months) Yes — separate application; check deadline (3 Nov 2025 for this scheme)
Home Undergraduate Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship UK/home students from Black or Black-Mixed ethnic backgrounds, with low household income (≤ ~£25,000), with offer for full-time UG degree from Sept 2025 £5,000/year towards maintenance or tuition, up to maximum 3 years Yes — separate application with personal statement & proof of income etc.
Undergraduate Great Start Scholarship Home students (UK fee status), with household income ≤ £25,000; full-time UG course offer starting Sept 2025; not already have an Honours degree £2,400 for maintenance costs or other living-cost support Yes — based on financial need and personal statement. Applications now closed for 2025-26, reopen Jan 2026 for next year
Home Postgraduate Part-Fee Scholarship Home fee students with a 2:1 Honours degree; full- or part-time Master's courses starting Jan 2026 at Westminster; not already have a postgraduate qualification; non-professional / non-conversion courses excluded £2,000 off tuition fees for first semester / first year (depending on course) Yes — separate application. Deadline 3 November 2025

📝 How to Apply for Westminster Scholarships in 2025/26

Here's a step-by-step process to maximise your chances:

1. Apply and get your offer

For both home/UK and international students, you must have a confirmed offer for a qualifying course before applying for most scholarships.

2. Check fee status (Home vs International)

Many scholarships are specific to home students; others are for international students. Make sure whether you are classified as home or international.

3. Check deadlines and application windows

Some schemes are annual (e.g. Vice-Chancellor, Sanctuary, Great Start). Make sure you do not miss key deadlines. For example, the Postgraduate Sanctuary Scholarship deadline is 3 November 2025.

4. Prepare documents

5. Submit the application

Use the University of Westminster's online scholarship portals / forms. Some awards are automatic if eligible; others require filling in forms. Always check the rules of each scholarship.

6. Await decision

Decisions are typically communicated via email. If awarded, the scholarship is applied as a tuition fee reduction or maintenance / support (depending on scheme).

💡 Pro Tip: Start your scholarship applications early and ensure all supporting documents are ready. Competition is high, especially for international awards like GREAT Scholarships.

🌍 International Student Opportunities

🏠 Support for Vulnerable Students

💰 Financial Planning Tips

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do international students qualify for many Westminster scholarships?
Yes. Westminster offers scholarships for international students, especially via GREAT Scholarships and other merit-/development based awards. However, competition is high.
Are there scholarships for those with refugee or asylum status?
Yes – the Postgraduate Sanctuary Scholarship is specifically for students seeking asylum in the UK who cannot access standard student finance.
What criteria matter most for Westminster scholarships?
Criteria often include academic excellence, financial need or low household income, ethnicity/background (for some equity awards), and personal statement. Several awards are income-means tested.
How much can a scholarship reduce costs?
It depends. Some awards offer fixed cash amounts (e.g. £2,400 for Great Start, £5,000 for Vice-Chancellor's), others offer £10,000 off tuition (GREAT), or full tuition + maintenance (Sanctuary).
When should I apply for Westminster scholarships?
As early as possible once you have your course offer. Many scholarships open in advance (e.g. GREAT deadline 23 June 2025).

📌 Final Thoughts

The University of Westminster offers a strong mix of scholarships to help with both tuition and living / maintenance costs, especially for students facing financial need, asylum seekers, or from under-represented backgrounds. To maximise your chances:

With the right scholarship, studying at Westminster becomes more financially manageable — allowing you to focus more on your studies and London experience.

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