Overseas Research Students Awards Scheme (ORSAS)

Funded by the Department for Education and Skills (DFES)

These grants are for postgraduate students undertaking full-time study for a higher degree as registered research students at British universities. Selection of candidates is based solely on academic merit and research potential. Awards meet the difference between the home and overseas level of tuition fees only, and do not cover maintenance costs. They are initially made for one year but can be continued for a second or third year, subject to the satisfactory progress of the award-holder.

The competition for scholarships and grants to study in the UK is very strong. Most grant-making organisations will insist that you meet some very strict requirements. If you do not meet all the requirements for a grant, then your application will not be considered.

When you apply for a grant, remember:

● you must apply for your grant at least one year before your course starts. Deadlines vary, so you must check that you know what the deadline is before applying;

● your application should be clear and concise. You should use the grant-making body’s application form if it has one;

● the majority of the grant-making bodies (see Section 10) will only give small amounts of money,which will not cover the full cost of a course.

How do I apply for a scholarship?