How to Secure a Scholarship in Project Management at the University of Manchester

Pursuing a degree in Project Management at the University of Manchester is a dream for many aspiring professionals. Ranked among the top universities in the UK and globally renowned for its academic rigor and strong industry links, Manchester offers excellent postgraduate programs in project management—especially through the Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS).

But with high-quality education comes a price tag. The good news? The University of Manchester offers a variety of scholarships for international and domestic students alike. Here’s your complete guide to understanding how to secure a scholarship for a Project Management course at UoM.

📘 1. Choose the Right Program

At Manchester, Project Management courses often fall under:

• MSc Management of Projects
• MSc Construction Project Management
• MSc Engineering Project Management

Each program is housed within the Faculty of Science and Engineering or the Alliance Manchester Business School, depending on its focus. Before applying for scholarships, make sure the course fits your academic background and career goals.

🏆 2. Explore Available Scholarships

Here are some of the key scholarships available for postgraduate project management students:

✅ Manchester Humanities International Excellence Scholarship

• For international students in humanities and management-related programs.
• Award: Up to £10,000.
• Merit-based (first-class degree or equivalent usually required).

✅ School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED) Scholarships

• For courses like MSc Management of Projects.
• Includes tuition fee waivers and partial funding.

✅ British Council GREAT Scholarships

• For students from selected countries (e.g., India, China, Nigeria, etc.).
• Covers £10,000 toward tuition fees.
• Limited to specific programs and countries.

✅ Commonwealth Scholarships

• For students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries.
• Fully funded (tuition, travel, stipend).
• Requires a separate application via your country’s nominating agency.

✅ Chevening Scholarships

• UK government-funded.
• Fully covers tuition, flights, and living allowance.
• Highly competitive and leadership-focused.

📄 3. Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Most scholarships require:

• A first-class or upper second-class undergraduate degree.
• English language proficiency: IELTS (usually 6.5–7.0) or equivalent.
• A strong personal statement and academic references.
• Clear demonstration of leadership potential and/or financial need.

For competitive scholarships like Chevening or Commonwealth, work experience and volunteer projects in project management significantly boost your chances.

📝 4. Prepare a Winning Application

When applying for a scholarship, here are key documents to perfect:

• Academic transcripts
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Personal statement or scholarship essay
• Two references (academic and/or professional)
• Proof of English proficiency
• Offer letter (conditional or unconditional) from UoM

💡 Tip: Tailor your personal statement to show how the scholarship aligns with your career goals and how you plan to contribute to your home country or field after graduation.

⏰ 5. Stay on Top of Deadlines

Scholarship deadlines often differ from course deadlines. Some key timelines:

• Chevening: August to November (for the following year)
• UoM scholarships: December to May (varies by program)
• GREAT Scholarships: Usually announced by February

Check both the University of Manchester’s official funding page and individual school sites frequently.

🌍 6. Don’t Rely on Just One Source

Apply to multiple scholarships, both internal and external:

• Your government’s education ministry or scholarship board
• Private foundations and industry-sponsored programs
• NGOs supporting education in your field or region

Many students fund their studies through a combination of scholarships and partial self-funding.

📣 Final Thoughts

Getting a scholarship to study Project Management at the University of Manchester is highly achievable with the right preparation, focus, and persistence. Start early, polish your application, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the university’s admissions or scholarship offices for guidance.

Your dream to become a world-class project manager in one of the UK’s top universities is within reach—you just have to take the first step.