UK universities boost international scholarships for January 2026 – and it is the final chance for the two-year Graduate Route

If you are considering postgraduate study in the UK, there has never been a more important time to explore your options. At Scholarship Scanner, we have analysed our unique dataset of UK postgraduate scholarships, which combines both historic records and the latest updates from UK universities.

Our research shows that scholarships for January 2026 entry are more numerous, more generous, and more transparent than in previous years. However, it is also the last intake where international students can benefit from the two-year Graduate Route visa in the UK, before it is cut to 18 months from January 2027.

Key findings: UK postgraduate scholarships January 2025 vs January 2026

More universities, more awards, higher value

• The number of UK universities offering international scholarships for January 2026 has risen from 70 in 2025 to 82 in 2026.

• The total number of scholarships has increased from 178 to 247, representing a 39% rise.

• The average maximum scholarship value grew by almost 19%, from £3,800 in 2025 to £4,530 in 2026.

This shows a clear upward trend: UK postgraduate scholarships for 2026 are more generous and more widespread than ever before.

Greater accessibility for international students

• Automatic awards (scholarships with no separate application) have increased from 128 to 166.

• Application-based, competitive scholarships have also grown, from 49 to 72.

• Universities are publishing clearer information: in 2026, 100 scholarships list deadlines, compared to just 65 in 2025.

Wider geographic participation across UK universities

• New entrants in 2026 include: University of Bath, University of Birmingham, Cardiff University, Coventry University, University of Reading, University of the Arts London, Roehampton University, University of South Wales, University of Worcester, and more.

This expansion means that students have a broader range of choices across different UK regions.

Bigger awards and standout offers

• Several UK universities now advertise scholarships worth over £10,000.

• This rising ceiling demonstrates how competitive the market for international students has become.

Graduate Route changes: why January 2026 intake matters

From 1 January 2027, the UK Government will reduce the Graduate Route visa for international students from two years to 18 months.

For students starting courses in January 2026, there is still a final chance to qualify for the full two-year Graduate Route visa UK. However, this only applies if courses are completed and visas are granted before 31 December 2026. Any visa approval that slips into 2027 will fall under the new 18-month rule.

This makes the January 2026 postgraduate intake in the UK uniquely important. It combines a record-breaking level of scholarships with the final opportunity to secure two full years of post-study work rights.

What this means for international students

• Scholarships for January 2026 are more plentiful, with higher award amounts and more transparent deadlines.

• The two-year Graduate Route visa remains available, but students must manage timelines carefully to avoid slipping into the 18-month limit.

• The growth of automatic scholarships makes it easier than ever for students to access financial support.

What this means for UK universities

• Scholarships have become a central recruitment tool for international postgraduate students.

• Clearer communication on eligibility, deadlines, and award conditions sets leading universities apart.

• Rising award values show that UK universities are in intense competition to attract top global talent.

Plan your future with our January 2026 Scholarships Finder

To support international students in making the best decision, we have launched the January 2026 Scholarships Finder on Scholarship Scanner.

With this tool, you can:

• Search the full list of UK postgraduate scholarships 2026

• Directly compare offers from the universities you are most interested in

• Filter by value, application type, eligibility, cost, deadlines, and more

👉 Explore the January 2026 Scholarships Finder today and plan your future with confidence.