Introduction
Are you considering attending one of the best institutions (Nottingham) in the UK but are concerned about the cost? You’re not by yourself. No matter where you’re from, the University of Nottingham Scholarships 2026 are here to support gifted students like you in realizing their academic goals.
In addition to financial help, Nottingham provides a variety of scholarships for foreign, undergraduate, and graduate students. It offers you the opportunity to receive a top-notch education without going over budget. Are you prepared to learn how to apply?
Overview of University of Nottingham Scholarships
Types of Scholarships Offered
Nottingham provides a variety of scholarships covering:
-
Full tuition
-
Partial tuition
-
Living expenses
-
Research grants
There are merit-based, need-based, and sports-related scholarships, as well as country-specific schemes to encourage diversity.
Check the full list here: University of Nottingham Scholarships
Scholarships for Undergraduate Students
If you’re applying for a bachelor’s degree, you can access:
-
International Excellence Awards
-
Country-specific bursaries
-
Sport scholarships
-
Foundation pathway scholarships
Scholarships for Postgraduate Students
Postgraduate applicants have even more choices:
-
Fully funded Developing Solutions scholarships
-
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
-
Masters by Research and PhD bursaries
-
School-specific funding opportunities
Key University of Nottingham Scholarships 2026
Nottingham Developing Solutions Scholarships
Created for students from Africa, South Asia, and selected developing countries, this scholarship covers 50–100% of tuition fees for Master’s programs.
More details: Developing Solutions Scholarship
Sports Scholarships
Are you an athlete? Nottingham supports elite sporting talent with:
-
Financial support
-
Coaching
-
Gym access
-
Nutrition and physiotherapy plans
Find out more: Sports Scholarships
International Undergraduate Excellence Award
These merit-based awards provide up to £2,000–£6,000 towards tuition fees, based on academic performance and potential.
UK/Home Student Scholarships
UK-based students are eligible for:
-
Nottingham Potential Bursary
-
Core Bursary
-
Care Experienced and Estranged Student support
Explore domestic funding: UK Scholarships
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
Offered in partnership with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, this fully funded scholarship is open to students from least developed and lower-middle-income Commonwealth countries.
Learn more here: Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
Who Can Apply?
General Eligibility Criteria
To apply for most scholarships, you must:
-
Hold an offer for a University of Nottingham course
-
Demonstrate academic excellence
-
Meet English proficiency standards
Country-Specific Criteria
Some scholarships are limited to certain countries. For instance:
-
Developing Solutions targets countries in Africa and Asia.
-
Commonwealth awards require citizenship from eligible Commonwealth countries.
Academic and English Language Requirements
You’ll need:
-
A strong academic record
-
IELTS score (usually 6.5+)
-
For some courses, higher English test scores may be required
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 – Choose Your Course and Apply for Admission
Start by selecting your desired program:
-
Undergraduate: UG Courses
-
Postgraduate: PG Courses
Submit your application via UCAS or directly to the university for postgraduates.
Step 2 – Identify Scholarships You’re Eligible For
Browse the university’s Scholarships Portal to find options based on:
-
Your nationality
-
Degree level
-
Area of study
Step 3 – Prepare Your Documents
Start gathering:
-
Academic records
-
Personal statement
-
Proof of English proficiency
-
CV/resume
Step 4 – Submit Your Scholarship Application
Each scholarship has its own form and deadline. Submit online through the University’s portal or via a designated email (depending on the scholarship).
Step 5 – Track Your Application
Once submitted, you’ll get a confirmation. Updates will follow by email or through your applicant portal.
Important Dates and Deadlines for 2026
Application Opening Dates
Scholarships typically open between October and February, depending on the program.
Scholarship Deadlines
Many deadlines fall between March and May 2026, but always check the official pages.
Offer and Acceptance Timeline
-
Offers: Usually June–July
-
Acceptance: Must confirm by the deadline stated in the offer letter
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Write a Winning Personal Statement
Tell your story. Be honest, passionate, and clear about:
-
Your goals
-
Why Nottingham?
-
How the scholarship helps you make an impact
Secure Strong Academic References
Ask professors or mentors who know you well. Make sure they highlight your strengths and dedication.
Demonstrate Your Impact and Future Goals
Scholarships often go to students who show leadership potential or a plan to give back.
Documents You’ll Need
Academic Transcripts
-
Must be translated to English (if necessary)
-
Verified by your school or institution
Proof of English Proficiency
-
IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent
-
Must meet the specific course requirement
Personal Statement
-
Usually 500–1,000 words
-
Tailored for each scholarship
CV or Resume
-
Include education, achievements, and relevant experiences
Offer Letter from the University
-
Conditional or unconditional offer is required before most scholarship applications
How Are Scholarships Awarded?
Selection Criteria
Evaluators look at:
-
Academic excellence
-
Future potential
-
Financial need
-
Clarity of goals
Competitive vs Automatic Scholarships
-
Competitive scholarships (like Developing Solutions) require separate applications.
-
Automatic scholarships are awarded based on academic merit at the time of admission.
What Do the Scholarships Cover?
Tuition Fees
-
Fully or partially covered depending on the scholarship
Living Expenses
-
Some scholarships provide stipends for accommodation and food
Travel Costs and Extras
-
A few awards cover airfare or visa costs (especially Commonwealth and government-backed schemes)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing Deadlines
Set calendar reminders and apply well before the cut-off date.
Submitting Incomplete Applications
Double-check everything—missing documents could get you disqualified.
Ignoring Specific Instructions
Follow formatting guidelines, word counts, and file naming exactly as required.
Can You Apply for More Than One Scholarship?
Rules on Multiple Applications
Yes! But:
-
Some scholarships are mutually exclusive
-
You must inform the university if you accept funding from another source
How to Prioritize Applications
Focus on:
-
Full-funding opportunities
-
Scholarships aligned with your background
-
Those with fewer applicants (e.g., niche subjects)
After You Get the Scholarship
What to Expect Next
-
Formal offer via email
-
Instructions on how to accept
-
Visa support and accommodation guidance
Meeting Ongoing Requirements
You may need to:
-
Maintain a certain GPA
-
Submit annual reports
-
Attend events or workshops
Life at the University of Nottingham
Accommodation Options
From university halls to private flats, you’ll find:
-
On-campus rooms
-
Shared housing
-
Ensuite options
Explore: Accommodation Info
Campus Life and Societies
With over 200 student clubs, life here is vibrant. From dance to debating, there’s something for everyone.
Support for International Students
Dedicated advisors help with:
-
Visas
-
Bank accounts
-
Settling in
-
Academic support
Visit: International Student Support
Useful Resources and Links
Conclusion
It may feel like a marathon to apply for the University of Nottingham Scholarships 2026, but each step will get you one step closer to your goal. Be thorough, start early, and write about what you are passionate about. Nottingham is a place to develop, flourish, and leave your impact on the world—it’s not just a place to study.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for a scholarship before receiving an admission offer?
Most scholarships require at least a conditional offer of admission, so apply to your course first.
2. Are University of Nottingham scholarships fully funded?
Some are, like the Commonwealth Shared or Developing Solutions, but many are partial. Always check the details.
3. Do I need to pay an application fee for scholarships?
No. Scholarship applications are free of charge.
4. Can I defer my scholarship if I postpone my admission?
Not always. You’ll need to reapply in most cases or seek permission from the funding body.
5. How will I be notified if I’m awarded a scholarship?
By email or through your applicant portal, usually within 6–8 weeks after the deadline.