Scholarship Hacks Every Postgraduate Should Know

Looking for ways to fund your postgraduate degree without breaking the bank? Scholarships can make a huge difference. 

In this article, you’ll learn practical scholarship hacks every postgraduate should know — simple tips to help you stand out and win funding.

Why Scholarships Matter for Postgraduate Students

Scholarships are more than just financial support; they open doors to opportunities, networking, and advanced learning experiences.

Benefits of scholarships:

• Reduce tuition costs and living expenses

• Gain recognition for academic or professional achievements

• Access research and leadership opportunities

• Enhance your CV and future career prospects

With careful planning and informed strategies, scholarships can significantly ease your postgraduate journey.

Top Scholarship Hacks to Boost Your Chances

1. Start Early and Stay Organized

• Research deadlines: List all relevant scholarships and their deadlines.

• Track requirements: Note essays, recommendation letters, and transcripts.

• Set reminders: Ensure you don’t miss critical dates.

2. Tailor Your Applications

• Personalize essays: Highlight your unique skills and experiences.

• Align with program values: Show how your goals match the scholarship’s mission.

• Provide evidence: Include awards, achievements, and community work.

3. Leverage Your Network

• Seek mentorship: Advisors and faculty can provide guidance and references.

• Join student forums: Get tips from past scholarship recipients.

• Attend webinars: Gain insights into application strategies.

4. Strengthen Your Academic Profile

• Maintain strong grades: Scholarships often prioritize high-achieving students.

• Engage in research: Show commitment to your field.

• Develop skills: Leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are valued.

5. Explore Lesser-Known Scholarships

• Departmental awards: Often less competitive than university-wide scholarships.

• External funding: Check professional associations, government, and NGOs.

• Country-specific options: Scholarships for international students can be substantial.

Scholarship Comparison Table: Typical Types & What They Cover

Use this table to plan which scholarships to target first.

University of Exeter Scholarships

Some notable examples include:

• Exeter Excellence Scholarships: Merit awards for international postgraduate taught applicants, worth up to £10,000.

• University of Exeter Alumni Scholarships: Discounts for former Exeter students joining postgraduate programmes.

• Progression Scholarships: Support for Exeter graduates moving onto postgraduate study.

Country-Oriented Awards:

• GREAT Scholarships: Up to £10,000 for students from countries like Bangladesh, Ghana, Nigeria & Turkey studying UK postgraduate courses, including Exeter.

Check the Exeter scholarship database regularly — new awards are added each year.

Follow “Excellence” Like a Pro

Scholarships with the word “Excellence” are highly competitive but rewarding. To unlock them:

• Present a strong academic profile

• Highlight relevant experience or achievements

• Demonstrate potential future impact in your field

At Exeter, the Exeter Excellence Scholarships are designed to reward outstanding applicants — don’t skip details when applying.

Funding Your Studies Beyond Scholarships

Scholarships are a great start, but other funding sources can complement them:

• Part-time work opportunities

• Research assistantships or teaching roles

• Grants and bursaries

Combining multiple funding sources can significantly reduce financial pressure.

How SGE Supports Postgraduate Scholarships

SGE helps students maximize scholarship opportunities at Exeter.

SGE services include:

• Expert Guidance: Identify scholarships aligned with your program and goals

• Application Assistance: Document review, essay feedback, and reference support

• Visa & Pre-Departure Support: Guidance for international students

• Ongoing Support: Post-enrollment guidance for academic and career success

With SGE, students can navigate the scholarship process confidently.

Secure Your Postgraduate Scholarships Today

Scholarships can make your postgraduate journey easier and open doors to career opportunities. Use these tips — plan early, personalize applications, build your profile, and explore all options — to boost your chances. 

SGE is here to guide you every step of the way, from finding the right scholarships to helping with applications.