Think Big Scholarship in UK 2026

The Think Big Scholarship is the main international scholarship programme offered by the University of Bristol, one of the UK's leading universities known for its strong academic reputation and research excellence. It is designed to support talented international students who want to study in the United Kingdom. For 2026 entry, the university has invested up to £5 million to help students from around the world achieve their academic goals in Bristol through this prestigious funding scheme. This investment demonstrates the university's commitment to attracting high-achieving students globally.

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Quick Overview

• University: University of Bristol

• Host Country: United Kingdom

• Program Levels: Undergraduate and Postgraduate (Master's)

• Scholarship Type: International Scholarship Scheme

• Total Investment: Up to £5 million for 2026 entry

• Scholarship Values: £6,500, £13,000, or £26,000

• Career Accelerator: Additional £3,000 for eligible postgraduate students

• Application Opens: 21st October 2025

• Application Deadline: 10th April 2026 (10:00 am UK time)

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One Application, Multiple Opportunities

The Think Big scheme works in partnership with different faculties, alumni, and external partners, creating many scholarship options available under the Think Big name. The good news is that students only need to complete one scholarship application form, simplifying the process considerably.

• The university will automatically match the scholarship application with the student's course application

• You will be considered for all relevant awards where you meet eligibility requirements

• If a student meets the eligibility for more than one scholarship, they will be considered for all suitable awards through this single application

This streamlined approach maximizes your chances of receiving funding without requiring multiple applications.

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Scholarship Value

The Think Big scholarships offer different award amounts depending on the level of study you are pursuing at Bristol.

For Undergraduate Students

• Scholarships worth £6,500 or £13,000 per year

• These awards can be renewed for up to four years, depending on the length of your course

• Provides substantial long-term support throughout your degree

For Postgraduate Students

• Scholarships worth £6,500, £13,000, or £26,000 for one year of a master's programme (including MRes programmes)

• Postgraduate students can also apply for the Think Big Career Accelerator

Career Accelerator

• A special employability programme including workshops, networking events, and career support activities

• Students selected will also receive an additional £3,000 scholarship, deducted from tuition fees

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Think Big Scholarships for Undergraduates

There are several undergraduate scholarships available under the Think Big scheme for eligible programmes.

Main Undergraduate Scholarships

• Think Big Undergraduate Scholarships: £6,500 or £13,000 per year for eligible programmes

• Note: Courses in the Bristol Dental School and Bristol Medical School are not eligible

Subject-Specific Undergraduate Scholarships

• Think Big about Business: £6,500 for students in the Business School

• Think Big about Economics: £6,500 for students in the School of Economics

• Think Big about Policy Studies: £13,000 for students in the School for Policy Studies

• Think Big about Science and Engineering: £6,500 for students studying Chemistry (BSc) or Physics (BSc)

• Think Big about Veterinary Science: £6,500 for Veterinary Science (BVSc) programmes, available for three years of full-time study (new for 2026)

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Think Big Scholarships for Postgraduates

The Think Big Postgraduate Scholarships are available for most eligible master's programmes at the University of Bristol.

Main Postgraduate Scholarships

• Awards valued at £6,500, £13,000, or £26,000 for one year of study

Subject-Specific Postgraduate Scholarships

• Think Big about Business: £6,500 or £13,000

• Think Big about Economics: £6,500 or £13,000

• Think Big about Education: £6,500

• Think Big about Law and Justice: £6,500 for MA and LLM programmes

• Think Big about Public Policy: £6,500 or £13,000

• Think Big about Science and Engineering: £6,500 for eligible programmes

New Scholarships for 2026

• Comparative Literatures and Cultures (MA): £6,500 or £13,000

• Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding (MSc): £13,000

• International Development (MSc): £13,000

• International Relations (MSc): £13,000

• Sociology (MSc): £13,000

• Translation and Interpreting courses: £6,500 or £13,000

• Research master's programmes: Various awards available

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Eligibility Criteria

This scholarship is available for students who meet the following requirements:

• Have overseas fee status (international student)

• Have applied for an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate (master's) course at the University of Bristol

• International students from all countries are welcome to apply

• Must meet the academic requirements for their chosen programme

Important First Step

• Before applying for the scholarship, students must first apply for their chosen degree programme and receive a University of Bristol application ID

• This application ID is essential for submitting your scholarship application

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Important Dates for 2026 Entry

Event Date Scholarship Applications Open 21st October 2025 (10:00 am UK time) Career Accelerator Round 1 Deadline 14th January 2026 (Postgraduate only) Career Accelerator Results February 2026 Scholarship Applications Close 10th April 2026 (10:00 am UK time) Scholarship Results Announced Late May 2026 Deadline to Accept Scholarship Late May 2026 Official Award Letters Sent July 2026

Students are advised to apply early and carefully check all deadlines to ensure they don't miss this valuable opportunity. The Career Accelerator early deadline is particularly important for postgraduate students seeking this additional support.

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How to Apply

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Step 1: First, apply for your chosen degree programme at the University of Bristol

• Step 2: Receive your University of Bristol application ID

• Step 3: Visit the official Think Big Scholarship website

• Step 4: Complete the online scholarship application form – students only need to complete one form to be considered for all eligible Think Big awards

• Step 5: Prepare your application materials carefully, highlighting your academic achievements and motivation for studying at Bristol

• Step 6: Submit your application before the 10th April 2026 deadline

Important Notes

• The scholarship application form is submitted separately but is linked to your course application through your application ID

• For postgraduate students interested in the Career Accelerator, note the 14th January 2026 early deadline

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Think Big Development Programme

If you're awarded a scholarship, you not only receive financial support, you'll gain access to additional development programmes depending on your scholarship.

• Think Big Leadership Programme – for undergraduate scholars

• Think Big Career Accelerator Programme – for postgraduate scholars

These programmes offer guidance, support, inspiration, and a solid framework for you to unlock your potential beyond your academic studies.

Why Choose the University of Bristol

• Leading UK University: Bristol is one of the UK's top universities, known for strong academic reputation and research excellence

• £5 Million Investment: Significant commitment to attracting international talent

• Generous Awards: Scholarships from £6,500 to £26,000 plus Career Accelerator

• Multi-Year Support: Undergraduate awards renewable for up to four years

• Simplified Application: One form for multiple scholarship opportunities

• Vibrant Location: Bristol is a vibrant and historic city with thriving student culture, excellent amenities, and easy access to beautiful British countryside and coastline

• International Community: Diverse community welcoming students from around the world

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Tips for a Strong Application

• Apply for Your Course First: Secure your application ID before starting the scholarship form

• Note Early Deadlines: Career Accelerator applicants must submit by 14th January 2026

• Submit Well Before 10th April: Don't wait until the final deadline

• Highlight Academic Excellence: Emphasize strong academic achievements

• Articulate Your Motivation: Explain why you want to study at Bristol

• Check Programme Eligibility: Ensure your chosen course is eligible for Think Big awards

• Prepare Documents: Have transcripts and personal statement ready

• Proofread Everything: Review your application before submitting

Final Thoughts

If you are planning to study in the UK in 2026 and meet the eligibility criteria, the Think Big Scholarship could be a valuable opportunity to fund your education at one of Britain's top universities. With awards ranging from £6,500 to £26,000, and additional opportunities like the Career Accelerator with £3,000 for postgraduates, this scholarship can significantly reduce the financial burden of international study.

The university has invested up to £5 million in Think Big scholarships for 2026 entry, demonstrating a strong commitment to attracting talented international students. Undergraduate awards are renewable for up to four years, while postgraduate awards include access to employability programmes designed to boost your career prospects.

Make sure to apply for your course first, receive your application ID, and then submit your scholarship application before the 10th April 2026 deadline. Start preparing your materials now to ensure a strong application.

Good luck with your application

Apply Now

For complete and official information and to submit your application, visit the official University of Bristol Think Big Scholarship page:

Apply for Think Big Scholarship at University of Bristol 2026 UK