Embarking on the journey to study in the UK is an exhilarating prospect, and securing a scholarship can transform this dream into a reality. This guide to the Nottingham Trent University International Scholarships 2026 is designed to be your trusted companion, demystifying the application process and illuminating the path to joining a vibrant academic community. If you’re an ambitious international student with your sights set on a world-class education at a university celebrated for its teaching excellence and student satisfaction, you’re in the right place. We’ll walk you through the opportunities available, eligibility, and the steps to craft a compelling application.

Nottingham Trent University International Scholarships 2026
Key Fact | Detail/Statistic | Source |
Scholarship Value | Awards range from significant fee reductions up to 50% of the tuition fees. | NTU Official Website |
Eligibility | Applicants must hold an offer to study a full-time course and be classed as an overseas student for fee purposes. | NTU International Scholarships Page |
Application Period | Applications for January 2026 intake are expected to open in early September 2025. | NTU Official Website |
Key Requirement | A strong scholarship statement (often around 500 words) is a crucial part of the application. | Shiksha Study Abroad |
Securing a place at a top UK university is a significant achievement, and winning a scholarship makes that accomplishment even sweeter. The Nottingham Trent University International Scholarships 2026 represent a fantastic opportunity to reduce your financial burden and focus on what truly matters: your education and personal growth.
Why Set Your Sights on Nottingham Trent University?
Nottingham Trent University isn’t just an institution; it’s a community dedicated to your success. Recognised as one of the UK’s most outstanding universities, NTU has garnered numerous accolades, including being named University of the Year multiple times.1 With a Gold rating for its teaching quality in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), you can be confident that you will be learning from the best.
Beyond academics, NTU is celebrated for its exceptional student support and focus on employability.2 The university’s commitment to providing work-based experience, from live projects to placements, ensures you graduate with the skills and knowledge sought by employers globally.3 In my experience advising students, the institutions that genuinely invest in your future career path are the ones that provide the most enriching experience, and NTU stands out in this regard.

Navigating the Nottingham Trent University International Scholarships 2026
NTU offers a diverse portfolio of scholarships to cater to a wide range of international students. Understanding the different types available is the first step in identifying the right one for you.
Major Scholarship Categories
- International Scholarships: These are competitive awards offering a reduction in tuition fees, often up to £3,000. They are awarded to students who can demonstrate a strong commitment to their studies and a clear vision for their future.
- Excellence Scholarships: For those who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, NTU offers Excellence Scholarships. These can be worth 25% or 50% of the tuition fee, providing a substantial financial boost.
- Country-Specific Scholarships: NTU values its diverse student body and offers scholarships tailored to students from specific countries. A notable example is the China Star Scholarship, which provides £3,000 for the first year of study for both undergraduate and postgraduate students from China.
- External and Partnership Scholarships: In addition to its own scholarships, NTU is a proud partner of prestigious global scholarship programmes like the Chevening Scholarships (the UK government’s global leadership programme) and the Commonwealth Masters Scholarships.8 These are typically fully funded and highly competitive.
For the most up-to-date and detailed information on the scholarships available for your country and course, always refer to the official NTU scholarships page.
A Nod to Your Interest in Mandarin
While the “Excellent Mandarin Programme Scholarship” you might have heard about isn’t a specific offering, your interest in the language can still be pursued at NTU. The university offers excellent Mandarin Chinese courses at various levels. Enrolling in one of these alongside your main degree is a fantastic way to enhance your skills, and demonstrating this multilingual ambition in your scholarship application can set you apart.
Crafting Your Winning Application
Applying for a scholarship can feel daunting, but with a structured approach, you can navigate it with confidence.
- Secure Your Offer of Admission: The foundational step for any NTU scholarship is to first apply for and receive an offer for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate course. The application deadlines for courses starting in September 2026 for international students are typically in early August 2026.
- Identify the Right Scholarship: Once you have your offer, explore the scholarship options available to you. Pay close attention to the eligibility criteria and deadlines for each.
- The Heart of Your Application: The Personal Statement: For most NTU scholarships, you will be required to write a statement of around 500 words.9 This is your opportunity to shine. I’ve seen many successful applicants focus on a few key areas:
- Your Passion for Your Chosen Subject: Why are you excited to study this course at NTU?
- Your Future Aspirations: How will this degree and scholarship help you achieve your career goals?
- Your Contribution to the NTU Community: What unique perspectives and experiences will you bring?
- Gather Your Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents ready, which may include academic transcripts, your offer letter, and proof of English language proficiency.
- Submit Before the Deadline: Scholarship applications are time-sensitive. The main deadlines for the September 2025 intake were in June 2025, so you can expect a similar timeline for the 2026 intake. Keep a close eye on the NTU website for the official announcements.

Life as an International Student in Nottingham
Choosing a university is also about choosing a new home. Nottingham is a vibrant, student-friendly city with a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major UK cities.10 It’s a place where history and modernity blend seamlessly, offering a rich cultural scene, fantastic shopping, and beautiful green spaces.
The university provides dedicated support for international students, from visa advice and enrolment assistance to social events that help you build a network of friends from around the globe.
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FAQs
Q1: When do applications for the 2026 international scholarships at NTU open?
Based on previous cycles, applications for courses starting in January 2026 are expected to open in September 2025, with September 2026 scholarship applications likely opening in early 2026. Always check the official NTU website for the most current dates.
Q2: Can I apply for multiple scholarships at Nottingham Trent University?
You can apply for any scholarship for which you are eligible. However, you will typically only be awarded one NTU scholarship. If you are offered multiple awards, you will usually receive the one with the higher value.
Q3: Do I need to have an offer from NTU before I can apply for a scholarship?
Yes, a confirmed offer to study on a full-time course at Nottingham Trent University is a prerequisite for applying for their international scholarships.
Q4: Is there a separate application form for each scholarship?
NTU typically has a main scholarship application form. When you apply, you will be considered for the awards for which you meet the criteria. Always read the specific instructions for each scholarship carefully.