University of Exeter, England
Exeter Excellence Scholarship
Edit ScholarshipTuition fee reduction of up to £10,000 for self-funded international students on taught master's programmes at the University of Exeter.
Overview
The Exeter Excellence Scholarship is a tuition fee reduction for self-funded international students joining a taught master's programme at the University of Exeter. Depending on the award level, it cuts your first-year international tuition by £3,000, £5,000, or £10,000. It is funded by the University and given for strong academic performance, so it recognises applicants who stand out on their record.
Because the award reduces fees directly, it lowers what you pay Exeter rather than arriving as a separate cash payment. It is aimed at students paying their own way, which makes it useful if you are funding your studies privately and want to bring the cost down. The exact award you receive depends on your academic profile and the programme you join.
Exeter runs the scholarship in rounds across the year, each with its own closing date. That means timing matters: applying in an earlier round can be an advantage, and you need an offer for an eligible programme before you can apply. The University assesses applications and notifies students of the award level they qualify for.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Funding Body | University of Exeter |
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Degree Levels | Postgraduate taught master's |
| Value | £3,000, £5,000 or £10,000 reduction in first-year international tuition fees |
| Deadline | Multiple rounds each year; Round 2 closed 1 July 2026 for 2026/27 entry |
| Eligible Nationalities | Self-funded students with international fee status |
| Official Website | exeter.ac.uk/study/funding/exeterexcellence |
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Requirements
The scholarship recognises outstanding academic achievement, and applicants typically achieve the equivalent of a UK 2:1 or higher. The award level you receive reflects the strength of your academic profile, so stronger records are considered for the larger reductions.
Nationality Requirements
You must be an international fee-paying student. The award is for those classed as international for fee purposes rather than home students.
Funding Requirements
You need to be self-funded, meaning you are paying your own tuition rather than being fully sponsored by another body. This keeps the award targeted at students covering their own costs.
Course Requirements
You must hold an offer for an eligible postgraduate taught programme. Some programmes may be excluded, so confirm yours on the scholarship page before applying.
What the Scholarship Covers
- A reduction of £3,000, £5,000, or £10,000 on your international tuition fees.
- Applied to the first year of your taught master's programme.
- Taken directly off your tuition, reducing the amount you owe the University.
- Awarded at a level matched to your academic profile.
How to Apply
- Apply to an eligible programme. Submit your application for a postgraduate taught master's at Exeter and obtain an offer.
- Confirm your fee status and funding. Check that you are an international fee-paying, self-funded student.
- Complete the scholarship application. Apply through the Exeter Excellence Scholarship page once you hold an offer.
- Submit within an open round. Aim for an open application round, since each has its own deadline. Earlier rounds give you a head start.
- Receive your decision. The University assesses your academic profile and tells you the award level you qualify for.
Required Documents
- Your offer for an eligible Exeter taught master's programme.
- Academic transcripts showing your results.
- Your degree certificate or proof of expected qualification.
- Evidence of international fee status, if requested.
- Any details the scholarship form asks you to supply about your funding.
Key Dates & Deadlines
The scholarship runs in multiple rounds across the application cycle for September 2026 entry, with some programmes also offering a January 2027 start. Round 2 closed on 1 July 2026 for 2026/27 entry, and further rounds may follow depending on remaining places. Because awards are limited and rounds fill over time, applying as early as you can in the cycle is sensible. Confirm current round dates on the official page before you apply.
Tips for a Strong Application
What helps
- Apply in an early round rather than waiting, since awards are limited.
- Secure your programme offer first so you can apply without delay.
- Make sure your transcripts clearly show results at or above a UK 2:1 equivalent.
- Check your specific programme is eligible before submitting.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming you can apply without first holding an offer.
- Missing a round deadline and waiting for the next one when places may be fewer.
- Applying while fully sponsored, when the award is for self-funded students.
- Overlooking that the award applies to your first year of international tuition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Exeter Excellence Scholarship worth?
It is worth £3,000, £5,000, or £10,000 as a reduction in your first-year international tuition fees, depending on your academic profile.
Is the Exeter Excellence Scholarship fully funded?
No. It is a partial tuition fee reduction, not a full scholarship, and it applies to your first year.
Who is eligible for the Exeter Excellence Scholarship?
Self-funded students with international fee status who hold an offer for an eligible postgraduate taught programme, typically at a UK 2:1 equivalent.
What is the deadline for the Exeter Excellence Scholarship?
There are several rounds each year. For 2026/27 entry, Round 2 closed on 1 July 2026. Check the official page for later round dates.
How do I apply for the Exeter Excellence Scholarship?
Hold an offer for an eligible programme, then apply through the Exeter Excellence Scholarship page within an open round.
Does the Exeter Excellence Scholarship cover PhD study?
No. It is for postgraduate taught master's programmes, not doctoral study.
Can sponsored students get the Exeter Excellence Scholarship?
The award is aimed at self-funded students who pay their own tuition, rather than those fully sponsored by another body.
Does the Exeter Excellence Scholarship apply to all years of my course?
The reduction applies to your first year of international tuition fees.
What grades do I need for the Exeter Excellence Scholarship?
Applicants typically achieve the equivalent of a UK 2:1 or higher, with stronger profiles considered for larger awards.
Do I need an offer before applying for the Exeter Excellence Scholarship?
Yes. You must hold an offer for an eligible programme before you submit the scholarship application.
Is the Exeter Excellence Scholarship paid as cash?
No. It is taken directly off your tuition fees, reducing what you pay the University.
Which programmes are eligible for the Exeter Excellence Scholarship?
Eligible postgraduate taught master's programmes, though some are excluded. Confirm your programme on the official page before applying.
University of Exeter, England
United Kingdom
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