Win full tuition fee waiver at University of Leicester! 30 scholarships for international undergraduates starting September 2026. Deadline: June 30, 2026.
- Scholarship Overview: Quick Facts Box
- What is the University of Leicester Undergraduate Scholarship?
- Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements
- Scholarship Benefits: What You’ll Receive
- Eligible Programmes and Exclusions
- How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Pro Tips to Win This Scholarship
- Video Assessment Criteria Explained
- Important Dates and Deadlines
- FAQs About University of Leicester Undergraduate Scholarship
- Similar Scholarships for International Undergraduates
- Final Thoughts: Is This Scholarship Right for You?
What if you could study at a top UK research university without paying a single penny in tuition fees for your entire undergraduate degree? What if achieving excellent grades and creating a two-minute video could earn you a scholarship worth £50,000-£60,000 over three years?
When I first learned about the University of Leicester’s ambitious undergraduate scholarship initiative, I was impressed by its scale and accessibility. Unlike many scholarships buried in complex requirements, this programme has a refreshingly straightforward premise: demonstrate academic excellence, show creative vision through a short video, and prove you’ll make meaningful contributions to the Leicester community and the world.
The University of Leicester Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 is part of a five-year commitment to award 150 full tuition fee waivers to international students. For September 2026 entry, 30 outstanding students will receive complete tuition coverage for up to three years—representing one of the most generous undergraduate funding packages available to international students in the UK.
Whether you’re passionate about science, captivated by humanities, or driven by social sciences—if you have exceptional grades, clear ambitions, and creative ideas about making positive impact, this scholarship could open the door to your UK education dreams.
Scholarship Overview: Quick Facts Box
| Scholarship Details | |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | University of Leicester Undergraduate Scholarship |
| Offered By | University of Leicester |
| Award Amount | Full tuition fee waiver (approximately £18,000-£22,000 per year) |
| Number of Awards | 30 scholarships for 2026 entry |
| Deadline | June 30, 2026 |
| Eligibility | International students with excellent academic performance |
| Study Level | Undergraduate (Year 1, 2, or 3 entry) |
| Field of Study | Most undergraduate programmes (some exclusions) |
| Renewable? | Up to 3 years (based on continued satisfactory progress) |
| Application Difficulty | Competitive |
What is the University of Leicester Undergraduate Scholarship?
The University of Leicester is a prestigious public research university based in Leicester, England. With its main campus adjacent to the beautiful Victoria Park, Leicester has established itself as a research-led institution with a proud history of academic excellence. The university was awarded University of the Year by The Times in 2008 and has consistently ranked among the UK’s top institutions.
Leicester’s commitment to international students goes beyond mere recruitment—it’s about building a diverse, global community of scholars who will become “Citizens of Change” working for a better future. The university champions diversity and unites in its ambition to pursue knowledge that genuinely impacts the world.
The Scholarship Initiative:
The University of Leicester has committed to offering 150 full tuition fee waivers over five years to international undergraduate students. This represents a multi-million pound investment in attracting talented students from around the world. For September 2026 entry, 30 full tuition fee waivers are available.
What Makes This Scholarship Unique:
Unlike many scholarships that offer partial discounts or one-year awards, Leicester’s scholarship provides:
The scholarship reflects Leicester’s values: they want students who don’t just excel academically but who have clear vision for their future, creative approaches to problem-solving, and commitment to making positive impact in the world—no matter how big or small.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements
Let’s break down exactly who qualifies for this opportunity. You must meet ALL of the following criteria:
Programme and Entry Requirements:
UCAS and Offer Requirements:
Academic Performance Requirement: This is crucial—you must achieve grades two levels above the standard A-level entry requirement:
Student Classification:
Programme Exclusions: The scholarship does NOT cover:
Video Submission:
Scholarship Benefits: What You’ll Receive
This scholarship provides exceptional value. Here’s exactly what you’ll gain:
Award Details:
| Benefit | Value |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee Waiver | 100% of tuition fees for international students |
| Duration | Up to 3 years (covering entire undergraduate degree) |
The Real Financial Impact:
International undergraduate tuition at Leicester typically ranges from £18,000-£22,000 per year depending on your programme. Over three years:
This means winning this scholarship saves you £54,000-£66,000—an absolutely transformative amount for most families.
What the Scholarship Covers:
What It Doesn’t Cover:
Budget Planning:
While tuition is fully covered, you’ll still need approximately £9,000-£12,000 per year for living costs in Leicester (which is more affordable than London). Plan for:
Beyond the Financial Value:
As a scholarship recipient, you’ll also gain:
Eligible Programmes and Exclusions
You Can Apply For:
Most undergraduate programmes across Leicester’s faculties:
This includes programmes in:
You Cannot Apply For:
Verification: Always check the specific programme you’re interested in on Leicester’s website to confirm eligibility and standard entry requirements.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Guide
The application process combines standard university admission with creative scholarship submission. Here’s your complete roadmap:
Step 1: Apply to University of Leicester
Step 2: Receive Your Offer
Step 3: Confirm Leicester as Your Firm Choice
Step 4: Create Your Scholarship Video
This is the heart of your scholarship application. Create a 2-minute maximum video answering these three questions:
Video Guidelines:
Step 5: Submit Your Video and Application
Step 6: Complete Additional Application Components
Step 7: Meet Your Offer Conditions
Step 8: Await Scholarship Decision
To apply, visit the University of Leicester scholarship application portal. For more information, visit the University of Leicester scholarship webpage.
Pro Tips to Win This Scholarship
Having observed successful scholarship videos and applications, here’s what makes candidates stand out:
For Your Video:
1. Answer All Three Questions Clearly Don’t ramble—structure your video:
2. Demonstrate Realism (Feasibility) Show you’ve genuinely thought through your plans:
3. Show Creativity (Unique Approach) Stand out from hundreds of applications:
4. Prove Impact (Making a Difference) Leicester seeks “Citizens of Change”:
5. Be Authentic Don’t try to be someone you’re not:
6. Production Tips
For Your Overall Application:
7. Excel Academically You need grades two levels above standard entry:
8. Craft a Strong UCAS Personal Statement Since this is considered alongside your video:
9. Highlight Meaningful Extracurriculars In the application form, emphasize activities showing:
In my observation, scholarship winners combine three elements: outstanding academic performance, creative and authentic video presentations, and clear articulation of how they’ll contribute to Leicester and make positive impact in the world.
Video Assessment Criteria Explained
Understanding how your video is judged helps you create a winning submission. Here’s what the selection committee looks for:
1. Realism (Feasibility)
What they’re assessing:
How to demonstrate:
2. Creativity (Approach and Ideas)
What they’re assessing:
How to demonstrate:
3. Impact (Making the World Better)
What they’re assessing:
How to demonstrate:
Important Dates and Deadlines
Plan your timeline carefully around these critical dates:
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| UCAS Application | Apply by UCAS deadlines (January 2026 for most courses) |
| Receive Leicester Offer | Typically 4-8 weeks after application |
| Make Leicester Firm Choice | By June 30, 2026 (or earlier UCAS deadline) |
| Scholarship Video Submission | By June 30, 2026 |
| Meet Offer Conditions | By August 20, 2026 |
| Scholarship Decisions | After August exam results |
| Programme Start | September 2026 |
Critical Timeline Notes:
FAQs About University of Leicester Undergraduate Scholarship
1. Can I apply if I’m entering Year 2 directly?
Yes! The scholarship is available for students entering Year 1, 2, or 3 of undergraduate programmes, covering up to three years from your entry point.
2. What if my qualification doesn’t have an exact A-level equivalent?
Check Leicester’s country-specific pages for equivalencies. The university applies discretion where exact equivalents aren’t practically attainable in certain marking systems.
3. Do I need to be good at video production?
Absolutely not! Leicester explicitly states they’re not looking for film-making skills. Focus on your ideas and answers, not production quality.
4. Can I apply for multiple Leicester programmes?
Yes, through UCAS you can list Leicester for different courses, but your scholarship video should focus on your primary choice.
5. What if I don’t meet my offer conditions?
If you don’t meet the required grades (two levels above standard entry), you won’t be eligible for the scholarship. The academic requirement is non-negotiable.
6. Is the scholarship guaranteed for all three years?
Yes, as long as you maintain satisfactory academic progress. There’s no annual reapplication, unlike some scholarships.
7. Can I defer my entry to 2027?
The scholarship is for September 2026 entry. If you defer, you’d need to reapply for whatever scholarships are available for 2027 entry.
Similar Scholarships for International Undergraduates
While Leicester’s scholarship is exceptional, here are other UK undergraduate funding options:
1. University of Birmingham International Undergraduate Scholarships
Various awards for international students
Award: £2,000-£5,000 per year
Learn more: University of Birmingham website
2. University of Westminster Full International Scholarships
Limited full scholarships for developing country students
Award: Full tuition + accommodation + living costs
Learn more: University of Westminster
3. University of Sussex International Scholarships
Merit-based awards for international students
Award: £3,000-£5,000 per year
Learn more: University of Sussex
4. Brunel University London International Excellence Scholarship
For outstanding international students
Award: £6,000 per year
Learn more: Brunel University
5. University of East Anglia International Undergraduate Scholarships
Various awards based on academic merit
Award: 10-50% tuition fee reduction
Learn more: UEA website
Final Thoughts: Is This Scholarship Right for You?
This scholarship is ideal if you:
You might want to explore alternatives if:
Here’s my honest assessment: The University of Leicester Undergraduate Scholarship is one of the most generous and accessible full tuition awards available to international students. The combination of 100% tuition coverage for three years, straightforward eligibility criteria, and creative application process makes it an exceptional opportunity.
Leicester itself offers excellent value: it’s a respected research university with strong academics, located in a diverse and affordable city with great transport links to London (one hour by train). You get quality UK education without London’s overwhelming costs.
The video requirement is refreshing—it allows you to showcase personality, creativity, and vision in ways traditional essay applications don’t. If you’re a strong student with clear goals and creative ideas about making impact, you have a real chance at this scholarship.
The University of Leicester is investing millions in attracting talented international students. With 30 full tuition waivers available for 2026 entry, your fully-funded UK undergraduate education could be just one excellent video away.
Start preparing today. Research Leicester’s programmes. Understand the grade requirements for your qualifications. Begin planning your scholarship video, thinking deeply about the three questions. Apply through UCAS early, make Leicester your firm choice, and submit your video before June 30, 2026.
To apply, visit forms.cloud.microsoft. For complete information, visit the University of Leicester scholarship webpage.
Your three years of tuition-free undergraduate education at Leicester—worth £54,000-£66,000—is waiting. Don’t let this opportunity pass.
Found this helpful? Share it with friends planning UK undergraduate studies. Drop your questions in the comments—I’m here to help you succeed!
