Surrey Merit Scholarship (ab 2016) / Vice-Chancellor's Future Leaders Award (aktuell)

Vice-Chancellor's Future Leaders Award (University of Surrey)

You get a fee waiver of about 8,700 EUR (7,500 GBP) off your tuition at the University of Surrey. It is a discount on your fees, not a cash payment or a living-cost grant. It covers only your first year of study. On a two-year master's programme it still applies to year one only. The University of Surrey gives this award to international students with strong grades and leadership potential.

Who can apply

• Level: You have an offer for a full-time bachelor's or master's degree at the University of Surrey.
• Where you live: You live in one of the listed countries, for example Brazil, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Egypt, Kenya, Mexico, Nepal, Vietnam or South Africa. If your country is not on the list, you cannot apply.
• Fee status: You pay international (overseas) tuition fees, not UK/Home fees.
• Self-funded: You pay for your studies yourself, without a sponsor or another scholarship.
• Full time: You study on campus full time, not part-time and not distance learning, and not at the Surrey International Study Centre.
• Course: Most subjects qualify. Some master's courses are excluded, including the MBA and several MSc programmes in AI (Conversion), chemistry, biotechnology, food science, nutrition and pharmaceutical sciences.
• Undergraduate applicants: You name Surrey as your firm choice on UCAS. Clearing applicants can also apply.
• Grades: You have strong results. Bachelor applicants need at least ABB or equivalent.

How to apply

Get a study offer first. Then apply through the online form before your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS, the document the university issues for your visa) is issued. A panel reviews your academic record, predicted grades and personal statement. Awards go first come, first served, so apply early. For September 2026 entry the deadlines are 25 August 2026 for undergraduates and 21 August 2026 for postgraduates.

How realistic are your chances?

The country and self-funding rules narrow the field, so fewer people compete than for open scholarships. There is no fixed number of awards, and places go on a first-come basis. If you fit one of the listed countries, meet the grade bar and send a convincing personal statement early, your prospects are good. Leaving your application until the deadline weakens your chances.