Think Big Scholarships 2026: University of Bristol Guide for International Students

Are you dreaming of pursuing a high-quality education in the United Kingdom? The University of Bristol Think Big Scholarships 2026 is one of the most prestigious opportunities for global students. As a world-class institution, Bristol has invested over £3 million to attract the brightest minds through its flagship international student financial aid program. Whether you are aiming for an undergraduate degree or a specialized Master’s, this scholarship can significantly reduce your financial burden.

Think Big Scholarships 2026
Think Big Scholarships 2026

Choosing to study in the UK is a life-changing decision, but the costs can be daunting. That is why fully funded UK scholarships and tuition fee waivers are highly searched by students worldwide. The Think Big program isn’t just a grant; it’s a gateway to becoming a global ambassador. In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 2026-2027 scholarship cycle, including application tips that will help you stand out.


Types of Think Big Scholarships 2026 Available

The University of Bristol offers different funding levels depending on your level of study. These awards are applied directly to your tuition fees, making it an excellent master’s degree funding option or a boost for bachelor’s students.

  • Undergraduate Awards: Successful applicants can receive £6,500 or £13,000 per year. This discount is applied for each year of your program.
  • Postgraduate (Masters) Awards: Master’s students can receive £6,500, £13,000, or even £26,000 for a one-year course.
  • Living Cost Bursaries: In some cases, undergraduate students may also be eligible for a £3,000 living cost stipend during their first year.

For students looking for high-value education grants, these figures represent some of the most competitive offerings in the Russell Group of universities.


Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

Understanding the Think Big Scholarships 2026 eligibility is the first step toward a successful application. To keep it simple, here are the core requirements:

  1. International Status: You must be classified as an overseas student for fee-paying purposes. Residents of the UK or EU (with home status) are not eligible.
  2. Applied to Bristol: You must have already submitted an application to a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate program at the University of Bristol starting in September 2026.
  3. Course Choice: Almost all full-time courses are eligible, except for Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science.
  4. No Other Major Funding: You should not be in receipt of another full scholarship that exceeds the cost of your tuition.

These international student grants are designed for ambitious individuals who can demonstrate how a Bristol degree will help them solve global challenges.


Required Documents and Information

Before you start the Think Big Scholarships 2026 online application, ensure you have your details ready. Unlike other awards that require heavy paperwork, this process is streamlined.

  • Bristol Student ID / UCAS ID: You cannot apply without a valid application ID from the university.
  • Course Details: The name of the program you have applied for.
  • Personal Statement Answers: The application focuses on three core questions (max 200 words each) rather than a traditional CV.
  • Academic Transcripts: While not uploaded to the scholarship form directly, your academic merit is pulled from your course application.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Many students ask how to apply for UK scholarships without getting overwhelmed. Follow these steps to ensure your application is submitted correctly:

  1. Apply for a Course First: Visit the University of Bristol website and apply for your desired degree. Once you receive your Application ID, you are ready for the next step.
  2. Access the Scholarship Portal: Use the dedicated International Scholarships online application form.
  3. Answer the Three Questions: This is the most critical part. You will be asked about your achievements, your ambassadorial potential, and how the course aligns with your career goals.
  4. Submit Before the Deadline: The Think Big Scholarship 2026 deadline is April 10, 2026 (10 am UK time). Do not wait until the last minute, as the system can get slow due to high traffic.

Winning Tips for the Application Questions

To rank high in the selection process, your answers must be impactful. Focus on these higher education scholarship tips:

  • Be Specific: Instead of saying you are a “hard worker,” mention a specific project or community service where you took the lead.
  • Global Vision: Bristol looks for “global citizens.” Explain how your studies in the UK will benefit your home country or the wider world.
  • Financial Need vs. Merit: While it is a merit-based award, showing how the funding will empower you to focus on your research or career can be a strong point.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Think Big Scholarships 2026 fully funded?

While it primarily covers tuition fees (up to £26,000), it is not a “full ride” in terms of all living expenses, though some bursaries are available for undergraduate students.

2. Can I apply if I don’t have an offer yet?

Yes! You only need to have applied for a course. You do not need a firm offer to submit your scholarship application.

3. When will I hear the results?

Applicants are typically notified of the outcome by late May 2026.


Important Dates to Remember

  • Applications Open: Currently Open
  • Final Deadline: April 10, 2026
  • Outcome Notification: May 2026
  • Course Start Date: September 2026

Official Links for Application

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official university pages:

Looking for More Scholarships?

Karolinska Institutet Global Master’s Scholarship

Uppsala University Global Scholarships

Excellence Scholarship 2026/2027

Study in the UK

Griffith University Fully Funded Postgraduate Research Scholarship (Australia)

Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2026

Gates Cambridge Scholarship