MRes Scholarships for International Students in the UK (January 2026)
If you’re an international student considering a Master of Research (MRes) in the UK in January 2026, there are several scholarship opportunities that can help make your studies more affordable. Research by Scholarship Scanner shows that although few awards explicitly mention “MRes” in their eligibility criteria, many UK university scholarships that are open to all postgraduate courses may also include MRes programmes. You can explore these opportunities in our January 2026 UK Scholarship Finder.
This article highlights a few examples of UK scholarships that mention MRes or research programmes, alongside important visa information - including whether MRes students can still bring dependants to the UK under current rules.
UK University MRes Research Scholarships January 2026
Leeds Beckett University - International Student Scholarship (Research)
Funding amount: £1,500
Deadline: Not specified
Eligible programmes: MRes
Leeds Beckett University offers this automatic award for international students enrolled in research-based Master’s programmes, including the MRes. The scholarship helps reduce tuition fees and supports research-focused study across various disciplines.
University of Buckingham - Postgraduate First-Class Scholarship
Funding amount: 33% tuition-fee discount
Deadline: Not specified
Eligible programmes: Research MA, MPhil, PhD
This award provides a 33% tuition discount to postgraduate research students who achieved a first-class undergraduate degree. The scholarship includes Research MA and MPhil programmes, offering valuable support to students pursuing independent or supervised research.
University of Wolverhampton - Lord Paul Masters of Research Excellence Scholarship
Funding amount: Partial fee waiver (varies)
Deadline: Typically mid-year annually
Eligible programmes: MRes
Wolverhampton’s Lord Paul Masters of Research Excellence Scholarship recognises academic excellence and research potential among international students undertaking MRes programmes. Awards are open across multiple subjects, including business, science, and engineering.
Other MRes Scholarships at UK Universities in 2026
Even if a scholarship doesn’t explicitly mention “MRes”, many UK university scholarships that list eligibility as “All subject areas” or “All postgraduate courses” may still apply to MRes students.
To find out which universities offer scholarships that include MRes degrees:
Use the Scholarship Scanner database.
Filter by “All” in the subject area column.
Check each university’s official eligibility criteria for confirmation.
Can MRes Students Bring Dependants to the UK?
Yes - in most cases, MRes students can still bring dependants to the UK in January 2026.
Under current UK visa rules, only postgraduate students enrolled in research degrees are eligible to bring partners or children. Since an MRes is considered a research degree, it remains one of the few one-year master’s programmes where dependants may still accompany students.
That said, eligibility varies by university, so always confirm how your institution classifies your MRes and whether it meets UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) requirements. Disclaimer: Visa information is accurate as of August 2025. Always verify details on the UKVI website.
Will the UK MRes Dependant Visa Rules Change Soon?
The UK government is closely monitoring dependant visa applications linked to MRes enrolments. Following reports that some agents were promoting MRes courses for their visa advantages, the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has warned that future restrictions are possible.
So, if you plan to study an MRes and bring dependants, apply early and stay informed using official UKVI updates.
Disclaimer: Visa information is accurate as of August 2025. Always verify details on the UKVI website.
Why Choose a UK MRes degree?
An MRes (Master of Research) degree is ideal for students who want to:
Develop independent research skills before progressing to a PhD.
Strengthen their academic profile through original research.
Study in the UK, where universities are recognised for high academic standards, innovative research environments, and strong international reputations.
MRes degrees combine focused research with expert supervision and are especially valuable for those considering a research career.
How to Apply for UK MRes Scholarships
Start early: Some universities may close scholarship applications without warning if they allocate all of their awards.
Check eligibility: Ensure that ‘MRes’ degrees are included in the scholarship’s eligibility criteria. You can always contact the university directly for confirmation of this.
Prepare a strong proposal: Highlight your academic goals and research contribution.
Tailor your statement: Show how your research aligns with your chosen university’s strengths.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an MRes degree in the UK?
An MRes (Master of Research) is a postgraduate research degree focusing on independent investigation, designed to prepare students for doctoral study or research-based careers.
How is an MRes different from an MSc?
An MRes prioritises research and a dissertation, while an MSc includes more taught modules and exams. The MRes suits those aiming for research or PhD pathways.
Can MRes students bring dependants to the UK?
Currently, yes. MRes students can typically bring dependants, as MRes degrees count as research programmes under UKVI rules. However, this policy is expected to be reviewed in 2026.
Are there fully funded MRes scholarships?
Some universities offer fully funded Master’s scholarships, though you should check carefully if MRes courses are included. Check our January 2026 UK Scholarship Finder for more details.
Final Thoughts
While few UK postgraduate scholarships specifically mention “MRes”, many general research and postgraduate awards are open to MRes students - depending on how each university defines eligibility.
Before applying, confirm whether your course is classified as a research degree and use the Scholarship Scanner database to explore all possible MRes funding options in the UK for January 2026.
We understand the challenges that international students face when applying to UK universities. Scholarship Scanner provides expert advice on applying to UK universities, and our scholarship blog shares latest updates on UK university funding opportunities. Our website can also help you to start your UK scholarship search and find the best financial support for your studies.