British Council announces GREAT scholarships 2026–27 to support Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK

The British Council, in partnership with the UK government’s GREAT Britain campaign, has announced the GREAT Scholarships 2026–27, designed to support exceptional Indian students aspiring to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom.For the upcoming academic year, 12 postgraduate scholarships will be available across leading UK universities, including the University of Bristol, Queen’s University Belfast, Royal College of Art, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, the University of Dundee, and others. Each scholarship offers a minimum of £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year taught master’s programme, giving Indian students access to world-class education and internationally recognised expertise. The scholarships span disciplines ranging from Finance, Business, Psychology, STEM, Design, and Humanities to Arts, Music, and Dance. Four universities will offer awards specifically in creative and performing arts — reflecting the UK’s continued global leadership in arts education.Jointly funded by the UK government’s GREAT Britain Campaign, the British Council, and participating universities, the programme aims to strengthen educational ties between the UK and India while expanding access to high-quality academic and creative learning opportunities.Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director Education India, British Council, said, "The GREAT Scholarships reflect the depth of the UK–India education partnership and our shared commitment to expanding opportunities for talented students across the country. Studying in the UK offers far more than academic excellence – it provides access to industry-aligned learning and a truly global environment where diverse perspectives come together to inspire innovation. With pathways opening across a wide range of disciplines, these scholarships will help Indian students take that transformative step, enabling them to build international networks, strengthen their professional pathways, and contribute meaningfully to a rapidly evolving global economy. We are happy to support the aspirations of students who will go on to shape the future across sectors and communities.”