Looking for fully funded UK scholarships? We cover Chevening, Commonwealth, and top university-specific funding for Tanzanian students. Check eligibility, deadlines, and application links.
Introduction: Your Path to a UK Degree
For ambitious Tanzanian students, the United Kingdom remains a premier destination for higher education. Renowned for its world-class research facilities, shorter course durations, and vibrant multicultural environment, the UK offers a transformative academic experience.
However, studying abroad can be financially daunting. Fortunately, UK scholarships for Tanzanian students are more accessible than ever. Whether you are an undergraduate, a postgraduate seeker, or a professional looking for a PhD, there are numerous funding options—from fully funded government programs to university-specific awards designed to attract global talent like yours.
In this guide, we break down the top scholarships, key deadlines, and how to secure your funding.
Top Government-Funded Scholarships
These are the most prestigious awards. They typically cover full tuition, living stipends, and airfare.
1. Chevening Scholarships (Fully Funded)
The UK government’s global scholarship program. For Tanzanian students, Chevening is highly competitive but offers unparalleled networking opportunities.
-
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel costs, and visa fees.
-
Eligibility: Tanzanian citizens with 2+ years of work experience and an undergraduate degree.
-
Deadline: Early November (Annual).
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
Designed for students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries, including Tanzania. These focus on candidates who have the potential to drive change in their home country.
-
Coverage: Full tuition, airfare, and living allowance.
-
Eligibility: First-class or upper second-class undergraduate degree.
-
Deadline: Varies (usually September to December).
3. GREAT Scholarships
A joint initiative between the UK government and UK universities. While not always fully funded, they offer a minimum of £10,000 towards tuition fees for Tanzanian students.
Scholarship Comparison Chart
To help you decide which path to take, here is a quick comparison of the key opportunities:
| Scholarship Name | Level of Study | Funding Type | Key Benefit for Tanzanian Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening | Masters (1 year) | Fully Funded | Leadership development & alumni network |
| Commonwealth | Masters & PhD | Fully Funded | Priority to those who cannot afford to study in the UK |
| GREAT | Undergraduate & Masters | £10,000 – £20,000 | Wide variety of partner universities |
| University-Specific | All Levels | Partial to Full | Merit-based; often easier to combine with government funding |
University-Specific Scholarships (With Links)
Many top UK universities offer exclusive scholarships for international students from Tanzania. Below are some of the best institutions with dedicated funding pages.
University of Manchester
One of the UK’s largest and most prestigious red brick universities. They offer the Manchester Humanitarian Scholarship and various alumni-funded awards.
University of Edinburgh
A top-tier global university offering the Edinburgh Global Online Learning Masters Scholarships and Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarships.
University of Bristol
Bristol offers the Think Big Scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students, which range from £5,000 to £20,000 per year.
University of Glasgow
Home to the Glasgow International Leadership Scholarship, which is highly relevant for Tanzanian students looking to study business, law, or engineering.
King’s College London
Located in the heart of London, King’s offers the International Scholarship programs for high-achieving students from Africa.
Key Dates and Application Timeline
Planning is crucial. Missing a deadline by a day can mean waiting another year. Here is a typical timeline for Tanzanian students applying for UK scholarships:
-
April – August: Research courses and universities. Start preparing for IELTS/TOEFL exams.
-
September – October: CRITICAL WINDOW. Open accounts for Chevening and Commonwealth applications. Request academic references.
-
November: Deadline month. Most government scholarships close in early November.
-
December – February: University admissions deadlines. Submit your UCAS or direct university applications to secure an offer letter.
-
March – May: Interview rounds (especially for Chevening). University-specific scholarship results released.
-
June – August: Visa application (Tier 4/Student Visa) and pre-departure preparations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply for a UK scholarship if I am currently in Tanzania working?
Yes. Most scholarships, including Chevening and Commonwealth, require you to be a resident of Tanzania at the time of application. They are designed for professionals and graduates currently living in the country.
Do I need a separate application for a university scholarship?
Usually, yes. For university-specific funding, you must often hold an offer (conditional or unconditional) from the university before applying for the scholarship. Always check the “How to Apply” section on the university links provided above.
What grades do I need from Tanzanian secondary school?
UK universities typically look for equivalent of A-Levels or a strong GPA from Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education (ACSEE). For postgraduate studies, a high Upper Second (GPA 3.5+) from a Tanzanian university is usually required for funding.
Ready to Apply?
Securing a UK scholarship for Tanzanian students requires persistence, excellent grades, and a compelling personal statement. Start your research today by clicking the university links above or visiting the official Chevening and Commonwealth websites.
Don’t wait for the deadline—start drafting your essays now.