Full Tuition Fee Waiver for International Students | Study in the United Kingdom
The University of Leicester International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver Scholarship 2026 represents one of the most generous funding opportunities for international students seeking to pursue undergraduate education in the United Kingdom. This prestigious scholarship offers a complete tuition fee waiver for up to three years of study, providing exceptional students from around the world with access to world-class British education without the burden of tuition costs.
As part of a landmark five-year initiative, the University of Leicester is committed to awarding 150 full tuition fee waivers to international undergraduate students, with 30 scholarships available for the September 2026 intake. This scholarship demonstrates Leicester’s commitment to global academic excellence and its recognition that talent exists everywhere, regardless of financial circumstances.
Founded in 1921 as a living memorial to those who lost their lives in World War I, the University of Leicester has evolved into one of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities. With its motto “Ut Vitam Habeant” (So that they may have life), Leicester continues to transform lives through education and groundbreaking research, making this scholarship an opportunity to join a community dedicated to positive global change.
Scholarship Summary
| Host Institution | University of Leicester, United Kingdom |
| Study Level | Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree) |
| Scholarship Value | Full Tuition Fee Waiver (up to 3 years) |
| Estimated Value | £52,500 – £87,000+ (based on £17,500-£29,000/year x 3 years) |
| Number of Awards | 30 scholarships for September 2026 |
| Five-Year Commitment | 150 total scholarships over five years |
| Eligible Countries | All countries (International fee-paying students) |
| Academic Requirement | Two grades above standard A-level entry requirement |
| Application Method | Online application with 2-minute video submission |
| Applications Open | November 18, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | June 30, 2026 |
| Programme Start | September 2026 |
| Official Website | le.ac.uk |
About the University of Leicester
The University of Leicester is a distinguished public research university located in Leicester, England, in the heart of the East Midlands region. Established in 1921 as Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland University College, the institution was founded as a living memorial to those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First World War. The university received its Royal Charter in 1957, granting it full university status and the right to award its own degrees.
Today, Leicester is internationally renowned for pioneering discoveries that have changed the world. In 1984, Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys invented genetic fingerprinting at the university, revolutionizing forensic science and paternity testing globally. More recently, in 2012, university archaeologists made headlines worldwide when they discovered and identified the remains of King Richard III in a Leicester car park, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in British history.
University Rankings and Recognition
- Top 30 in the UK according to major league tables including Times Higher Education
- Gold Rating in Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – meaning student experience and outcomes are exceptional
- Top 1% of universities worldwide – recognized globally for research and teaching excellence
- Three-time Queen’s Anniversary Prize winner – the highest form of national recognition for UK academic institutions
- Over 350 degree programmes across three academic colleges
- 20,000+ students from 150+ countries creating a truly international community
- Winner of University Challenge (1963) – the very first series of the prestigious quiz show
Scholarship Benefits
The University of Leicester International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support:
- Full tuition fee waiver for up to three years of undergraduate study
- Estimated total value: £52,500 – £87,000+ depending on your chosen programme (based on international fees of £17,500-£29,000 per year)
- Coverage for Year 1, 2, or 3 entry – applicable whether you’re starting fresh or transferring
- Access to world-class education at a Gold TEF-rated institution
- Membership in a global community of scholars from over 150 countries
- Access to outstanding facilities including the David Wilson Library (open 24/7 during term)
- Career support services – Leicester was named best in the UK for preparing students for work (Graduate Development Awards)
- Study in an affordable city – Leicester was ranked UK’s most affordable university location by HSBC
Important Note: Scholarship recipients are responsible for funding their own accommodation and living expenses. However, Leicester’s cost of living is significantly lower than London and other major UK cities, making it an economical choice for international students.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the University of Leicester International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- International student status: You must be classified as an international student for fee purposes
- Full-time study: Starting a full-time undergraduate programme at the University of Leicester UK campus
- September 2026 start: Commencing studies in September 2026 for Year 1, 2, or 3 of your undergraduate programme
- Maximum three years duration: Programme must not exceed three years in total length
- Academic excellence: Achieve the equivalent of two grades above the standard A-level entry requirement for your chosen course
- Firm choice: You must make Leicester your ‘firm choice’ by June 30, 2026 (UCAS applicants must reply by their UCAS deadline, which may be earlier)
- Meet all offer conditions: All conditions of your offer must be fulfilled by August 20, 2026
Academic Requirements Explained
The scholarship requires you to achieve two grades above the standard A-level entry requirement. For example, if the standard entry requirement for your chosen course is ABB, you would need to achieve the equivalent of AAA or higher in your international qualification. The university will apply discretion where an equivalent level is not practically attainable within the marking scheme of particular international qualifications. Visit the university’s country pages to find the equivalent grades for your specific qualification.
Excluded Programmes
The following programmes are NOT eligible for this scholarship:
- Medicine
- LLB Maitrise
- STEM International Foundation
- All ‘International Year 1’ courses
- Programmes exceeding three years in duration
Eligible Fields of Study
The University of Leicester offers undergraduate programmes across three academic colleges, with most programmes eligible for this scholarship (excluding those listed above):
College of Science and Engineering
Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Engineering (various specializations), Natural Sciences
College of Life Sciences
Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Genetics, Neuroscience, Psychology, Pharmaceutical Sciences
College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities
Law, Business and Management, Economics, Accounting and Finance, History, English, Modern Languages, Politics, Sociology, Criminology, Media and Communication, Archaeology and Ancient History, Museum Studies
Application Process
The University of Leicester International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver Scholarship requires a separate application including a video submission. This is different from your university admission application. Here’s how to apply:
Step 1: Apply for Admission
First, apply for your chosen undergraduate programme at the University of Leicester through UCAS (for most applicants) or directly through the university. Ensure your application demonstrates strong academic achievement.
Step 2: Create Your Video
Create a short video (maximum 2 minutes) that answers these three questions:
- What do you want to achieve after university?
- How will your chosen degree help you achieve this?
- How will you contribute to the University community while you’re here?
Important: The university is NOT looking for film-making or acting skills. They want to see how you approach and answer the questions. You don’t need to appear in the video yourself if you prefer not to.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Upload your video to a platform such as Google Drive, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, WeChat Video, or Douyin. Then submit your video link through the Scholarship Application Form. Applications open on November 18, 2025.
Step 4: Make Leicester Your Firm Choice
Ensure you select the University of Leicester as your ‘firm choice’ by June 30, 2026 (or by your UCAS reply deadline if earlier).
Video Scoring Criteria
Your video will be evaluated across three main categories:
1. Realism
The selection panel assesses the feasibility of your answers. Is your plan possible? Have you given genuine thought and consideration to the viability of your plans for university life and your future?
2. Creativity
This is not about video production quality. The panel evaluates your thought process, your ideas, and how you’ve approached the topic. Does your plan stand out from the crowd? How have you demonstrated your unique perspective?
3. Impact
At Leicester, students are Citizens of Change working for a better future. The university champions diversity and pursues knowledge that impacts the world positively. Will your plans during and after your degree make a difference? No matter how big or small, demonstrate the positive impact you could make.
Additional Factors: Alongside the video submission, the selection committee will also consider your Personal Statement and any extracurricular activities you’ve highlighted in your application form.
Required Documents
For the scholarship application, you will need:
- Video submission: 2-minute video answering the three questions (uploaded to a sharing platform)
- Completed application form: Submitted through the Microsoft Forms link
- Personal Statement: Already submitted as part of your university application
- Academic transcripts/results: Demonstrating you meet or exceed the academic requirements
For your general university admission (through UCAS or direct application), you will also need standard documents such as academic transcripts, English language test scores (if applicable), references, and proof of identity.
Application Timeline
| Date | Event |
| November 18, 2025 | Scholarship applications open |
| June 30, 2026 | Application deadline – Video submission and firm choice deadline |
| July 1 – August 20, 2026 | Shortlisting and final selection |
| August 20, 2026 | All offer conditions must be met by this date |
| By August 20, 2026 | Final winners notified by email |
| By August 28, 2026 | Unsuccessful applicants notified |
| September 2026 | Programme begins at University of Leicester |
Terms and Conditions
Important terms governing this scholarship:
- The fee waiver applies to tuition fees only and is not transferable
- Successful students must fund their own accommodation and living expenses
- The scholarship will not apply for periods of industrial placement, overseas exchange, resit years, or if you suspend your studies
- No other University of Leicester scholarships or discounts may be combined with this fee waiver (unless explicitly stated)
- Sponsored students may still qualify provided they meet all other eligibility criteria
- If you defer your place to the following academic year, your fee waiver offer will no longer be valid – you must reapply
- If you hold a conditional offer, you must still fulfil all conditions stated in your offer letter
Tips for a Successful Application
- Be authentic: The university wants to see the real you – don’t try to be someone you’re not. Genuine passion and authenticity will shine through.
- Plan your video: While you don’t need professional production, plan what you want to say. Practice your responses to ensure you stay within the 2-minute limit.
- Be specific about your goals: Vague aspirations won’t stand out. Explain specifically what you want to achieve and how Leicester will help you get there.
- Demonstrate realism: Show that you’ve researched your career path and understand what it takes to achieve your goals. Mention specific courses, opportunities, or resources at Leicester.
- Show your impact potential: Leicester values ‘Citizens of Change.’ Highlight how you plan to contribute positively – whether through societies, volunteering, research, or community engagement.
- Highlight extracurricular activities: Your activities outside academics demonstrate leadership, initiative, and the skills you’ll bring to the university community.
- Apply early: Don’t wait until the deadline. Early applications give you time to perfect your submission and demonstrate genuine interest.
- Proofread everything: While the video is key, ensure your written application and Personal Statement are polished and error-free.
Alternative: International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship
If you don’t receive the full tuition fee waiver, you may still qualify for the International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship, which offers a £5,000 tuition fee discount per year (total value up to £15,000-£20,000 over your degree). This merit-based scholarship is automatically awarded to international students who achieve two grades above the standard A-level entry requirement. No separate application is required – you will be notified when you submit your final results.
Why Choose the University of Leicester?
- World-changing research: From genetic fingerprinting to King Richard III, Leicester researchers make discoveries that impact the world
- Teaching excellence: Gold TEF rating confirms exceptional student experience and outcomes
- Career-focused education: Named best UK university for preparing students for work by Association of Graduate Recruiters
- Affordable location: Leicester is the UK’s most affordable university city according to HSBC
- Diverse community: One of the UK’s most multicultural cities with students from 150+ countries
- Central location: Just 70 minutes from London by train, with excellent UK and European connections
- Beautiful campus: Adjacent to 69 acres of parkland – often called the university’s ‘back garden’
- Outstanding facilities: 24/7 library, modern sports centres, award-winning Students’ Union
- Historic legacy: Founded as a living memorial to WWI – education as a force for positive change
- Social inclusiveness: Long-standing commitment to widening participation and equal access to education
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply if I’m already a current student?
This scholarship is for students starting in September 2026. It can be used for Year 1, 2, or 3 entry, so if you’re transferring or progressing from another institution, you may be eligible. However, current Leicester students cannot apply.
2. Do I need to appear in the video?
No. The university states you don’t need to be in the video yourself if you don’t want to be. You could use slides, animations, voice-over, or other creative approaches to answer the three questions.
3. What happens if my video platform link expires?
Ensure your video link remains active and accessible throughout the selection process (until at least September 2026). If using YouTube, avoid ‘unlisted’ links that might expire. Google Drive links should have appropriate sharing permissions.
4. Can I receive this scholarship alongside other Leicester scholarships?
No. Students can hold only one University of Leicester scholarship. If you’re awarded more than one, you will receive the higher value award only.
5. What if I want to defer my place?
If you defer your place to the following academic year, your fee waiver offer will no longer be valid. You would need to reapply for any scholarships available in that subsequent year.
6. Are sponsored students eligible?
Yes. Sponsored students may still qualify for this fee waiver provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.
7. What subjects have the best chances?
The scholarship is open to almost all undergraduate programmes (excluding Medicine, LLB Maitrise, STEM International Foundation, International Year 1, and programmes exceeding 3 years). Selection is based on academic merit and your video submission, not your chosen subject.
8. Is there an English language requirement?
While the scholarship itself doesn’t specify language requirements, you must meet the University of Leicester’s English language requirements for admission to your chosen programme. This typically requires IELTS 6.0-7.5 or equivalent, depending on your course.
How to Apply
Ready to apply for the University of Leicester International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver Scholarship 2026? Follow these steps:
1. Apply for admission to an eligible undergraduate programme at the University of Leicester through UCAS or direct application
2. Create your 2-minute video answering the three scholarship questions
3. Upload your video to Google Drive, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, WeChat Video, or Douyin
4. Submit your application through the scholarship application form (opens November 18, 2025)
5. Make Leicester your firm choice by June 30, 2026
6. Meet all your offer conditions by August 20, 2026
Need Help With Your Application?
At ScholyHub Consultancy, we specialize in helping students secure fully funded scholarships at top universities worldwide. Our expert team can assist you with crafting a compelling video presentation, perfecting your personal statement, preparing your application documents, and developing a strategy to maximize your chances of success. Contact Us today to start your journey to the University of Leicester!
APPLICATION DEADLINE: JUNE 30, 2026
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