British universities have garnered the interest of many Pakistani students because of the excellent quality of the education system, cultural diversity, and a good academic reputation. However, higher studies in the UK can cost a fortune due to tuition, accommodation, living, and travel costs. So, if you wonder, “What are the options to fund my university course in the UK?” then we will help you explore the various options, in general scholarships to study in the UK specifically.
1. Scholarships to Study in the UK – Your First Priority
Scholarships continue to be the most effective and popular way to ease the financial burden of study abroad experiences. UK universities, the UK government and private organisations provide fully funded and partially funded scholarships for international students and students from Pakistan.
Top Scholarships for Pakistani Students in the UK:
|
Scholarship Name |
Funding Type |
Eligibility |
|
Fully funded |
For postgraduate students with leadership potential |
|
|
Fully funded |
For low to middle-income countries, including Pakistan |
|
|
Partial funding |
Postgraduate students in science, tech, healthcare, renewable energy |
|
|
Partial funding |
Offered in partnership with UK universities and British Council |
|
|
Varies |
Merit-based or need-based; offered by individual institutions |
2. University-Specific Financial Aid
-
Most UK universities offer in-house scholarships and bursaries for international students. These are usually merit or need based (financial hardship).
For Examples:
- University of Manchester – Global Futures Scholarship
- University of Birmingham – International Achievement Scholarship
- University of Glasgow – Excellence Scholarships
Some universities offer early-bird discounts or will waive fees if you apply early.
3. Government Loans and Student Support
Pakistani students may not qualify for UK government student loans-however, local funding options exist via Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) or Education USA.
Pakistani Government Options:
- HEC Need-Based Scholarships (often in partnership with universities in the UK)
- Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship Program
- Study Abroad Loan Schemes (available mostly from select banks like NBP or Bank Alfalah)
The above may not always be enough to support the full course, but they may fund tuition or partially fund living expenses.
4. Part-Time Work in the UK (During Study)
Visa holders on a UK student visa can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time in the holidays:
- Common part-time work includes:
- Retail assistant (shops, supermarkets)
- Food-service (cafes, restaurants)
- Delivery and logistics
- Freelance or remote work (e.g. content writing, online tutoring)
- On-campus positions (library, admin, events)
While this income won’t cover tuition fees in full, or makes a full contribution towards tuition fees, it is likely to supplement your income and make things easier for spending money on things such as rent, travel and food costs.
5. External Organizations and Charity Grants
Many international organizations, NGOs, and foundations fund education for talented students from developing nations.
For example:
- Islamic Development Bank scholarship
- Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
- Rhodes trust (for Oxford)
- Wellcome Trust (for health-related studies)
Often these funds have strict eligibility criteria and early application deadlines so plan ahead.
6. Budgeting and Cost Management Tips
Even with scholarships or part-time work, smart budgeting is essential. Here’s how you can minimize living costs in the UK:
|
Expense Area |
Tips |
|
Accommodation |
Choose university dorms, or share private rentals with other students. |
|
Food |
Cook at home, shop from local markets (Lidl, Aldi), avoid takeaways. |
|
Travel |
Use student railcards, Oyster cards (in London), and bus passes. |
|
Entertainment |
Use student discounts (UNiDAYS, TOTUM), join university clubs. |
7. Combine Multiple Funding Sources
Many students rely on scholarships, part-time work and their family to pay for their education in the UK. There is no one way, you can use a combination of different funding as follows:
Example:
- 50% of tuition is funded from scholarship
- 30%for living costs from part time work
- 20% is from family savings or loan from local source
Overall this blended approach makes studying in the UK a realistic option.
Make a Plan and Apply Early
Funding your UK university course is going to involve a certain degree of research, planning and timely action. Whether you are applying for a scholarship to study in UK, or if you are planning some work and funding, you will want to start early (ideally 12 – 18 months before your intake).
However, if you want more personalised support or you are unsure about the funding route best suited for you, then our team at StudyAdvisers.co can help! We help Pakistani students every step of the way – from choosing a university, applying for visas, to help securing funding or scholarships.
Ready to begin your journey?
Explore fully funded UK scholarships and get expert help with your study abroad application. Visit SAUK today.
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About SAUK
Study Advisers UK (SAUK) is a trusted international education consultancy helping students across Pakistan achieve their dreams of studying abroad. With expert guidance, personalized counselling, and strong partnerships with top universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, and Europe, SAUK supports students through every step
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