Many Indian students dream of studying in the UK. It's a land of top-ranked universities and diverse careers. Yet, the cost of tuition and living abroad creates significant stress. Thankfully, scholarships offer some relief. Most students chase high-profile awards. However, these are highly competitive and difficult to secure. That’s why low-competition scholarships can be a smarter choice.
Why Consider Low-Competition Scholarships?
The UK hosted over 126,000 Indian students in 2023. That number continues to grow every year. But tuition can cost from £10,000 to £38,000 per year. Add student accommodation, travel, and daily expenses, and the cost can feel overwhelming.
Low-competition scholarships often go unnoticed. They are specific to certain fields, regions, or universities. This narrows the applicant pool and boosts your chances of winning.
Stretching Your Budget with Smarter Housing Choices
Scholarships often don’t cover all expenses. Especially not student accommodation, which can eat up a big part of your budget. Student Tenant helps students secure verified, affordable student housing near top universities. Our team offers contract reviews and local insights, helping students make smart choices.
We simplify every step of finding safe student rooms and student apartments. You avoid scams and overcharges, and settle into reliable housing without stress.
Cost Breakdown for Indian Students in the UK (2025)
Staying on budget means planning every rupee carefully. Start with accommodation. Then, tackle tuition and living costs.
Best Low-Competition Scholarships for Indian Students
1. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship
For Indian citizens aged 25–45
Focused on arts, conservation, and humanities
Covers tuition, travel, and living expenses
Less popular due to narrow eligibility
2. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
Available to Indian students under 30
Funds study in the humanities and fine arts
Offers up to $100,000 in support
Tough screening, but low applicants
3. Felix Scholarship
For postgraduate students from India
Limited to Oxford, Reading, and SOAS
Covers all academic and living costs
Small candidate pool due to partner limits
4. Goa Education Trust Scholarship
Open to students of Goan origin
Supports any master’s degree
Provides tuition and living support
Region-specific, hence fewer applicants
5. University-Level Bursaries
Many UK universities offer targeted financial aid. These scholarships are less advertised and more accessible:
Strathclyde South Asia Scholarship
UWE Bristol Chancellor’s Award
Leicester President’s Postgraduate Bursary
These grants are limited by course or region. But fewer students apply, increasing your odds.
Visual: Application Competition per Scholarship
More obscure scholarships often have better odds. Take advantage of that opportunity.
How to Find and Win Low-Competition Scholarships
Use University Portals
Start with official university websites. Many scholarships are not listed anywhere else. Email departments or financial aid offices directly.
Explore Our Resources
We don’t just help with student accommodation. We also offer budgeting tools and relocation advice. That’s useful for planning your scholarship journey.
Tailor Every Application
Match each scholarship’s unique criteria
Personalise your statement of purpose
Provide strong, relevant recommendations
Build Helpful Networks
Connect with alumni on LinkedIn
Join university social groups
Ask past scholars for insider tips
Keep a Deadline Calendar
Track dates six months in advance
Use spreadsheets to stay organised
Common Roadblocks and Simple Fixes
1. Students Don't Know Where to Look
Fix: Start early and explore beyond the top sites. Look into course-specific and country-specific funding.
2. Missing Documents or Deadlines
Fix: Prepare all materials early. Review checklists. Set alerts a week before each due date.
3. Overpaying for Accommodation
Fix: Use trusted platforms to find quality student rooms. We help you avoid scams and bad leases.
4. Unclear Eligibility Rules
Fix: Reach out to the scholarship team. Ask for clarification if you're unsure.
UK Policy Support for Indian Students
The UK continues to expand its student-friendly policies. The Graduate Route now allows two years of post-study work. This helps students gain international experience.
In 2024, the UK awarded £40 million in scholarships to Indian nationals. However, many bursaries remain unclaimed due to poor promotion. Knowing where to look can give you an advantage.
Collaborations between Indian and UK institutions are also rising. These agreements will open more funding paths.
Infographic: Application Checklist
Start your research six months early
Confirm each scholarship's rules
Draft and revise your SOP
Collect academic transcripts
Get two to three recommendation letters
Apply before deadlines
Follow up if needed
Stay organised and focused. A well-timed application can change your future.
Final Advice for Aspiring Scholars
Low-competition scholarships are a smart way to study abroad affordably. They require effort but offer better success odds.
Combine this strategy with smart housing choices. At StudentTenant.com, we help international students find affordable student housing, verified student rooms, and secure student apartments.
Skip overpriced rentals. Avoid last-minute stress. Use tools built specifically for international students like you.
With careful planning and the right support, your UK study dream is closer than you think.