Key Take-aways from this comparison:

• The UCL Global Masters scholarship is need-based (financial need plus academic merit) rather than purely merit-based.

• While it may not cover everything (living costs in London can still be high), the £15,000 is a major support.

• For African and Asian applicants, the English test waiver (if eligible) is a significant barrier removed.

• Other scholarships may cover full tuition but often offer low living support or are extremely competitive; here the mix for CS/Data fields at a top global university is compelling.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying (as a Newbie)

Here I’ll walk you through the process from zero to submission, structured logically.

Step 1: Decide on your programme

• Visit UCL’s website and find the MSc in Computer Science or MSc in Data Science/Analytics that suits you. Check requirements: for example, the MSc Data Science states you’ll need quantitative skills and some programming (R/Python) experience.

• Check application deadlines for the programme (often November to March for September entry).

• Confirm that your undergraduate degree meets the entry criteria (for example upper second-class or equivalent).

Step 2: Verify your English language condition

• If your previous education (Bachelor’s or equivalent) was taught entirely in English, check whether UCL will accept that in lieu of IELTS. UCL states: “You do not need to prove your level of English language if … you have completed at least 12 months academic education leading to an awarded qualification in a country that UCL considers majority English-speaking, and instruction was in English.”

• If your previous study was not entirely in English, you’ll likely need to take IELTS (or equivalent) and meet the score required.

Step 3: Prepare required documents
Typical documents you’ll need:

• Academic transcripts (Bachelor degree)

• Bachelor’s degree certificate (or proof you will graduate before the programme start)

• CV/resume showing relevant experience

• Personal statement / statement of purpose (we’ll discuss how to write it later)

• References (usually two academic)

• Proof of English if required

• Passport/ID

• Sometimes English medium certificate if using previous education to waive IELTS

Step 4: Apply for admission to UCL

• Visit the UCL admission portal, select your course (e.g., MSc Data Science) and apply.

• Make sure you check the application deadline (often early January to March for international students).

• If you apply early, you may also benefit from early visa processing, accommodation options etc.

Step 5: After submitting your admission application, apply for scholarship

• Once you have submitted the admission application to UCL, you can then apply for the UCL Global Masters Scholarship. According to UCL guidance: you must have submitted an application for admission in order to be able to apply for the scholarship.

• The scholarship application has a separate form (via UCL Student Funding Office). You’ll be asked about financial circumstances, household income, other funds. Note: This is need-based.

• Fill in the scholarship application carefully, ensure you provide all required info (household income, financial need, academic merit, how the programme will help your career).

Step 6: Wait for decision & accept the offer

• If you are admitted and awarded the scholarship, you will receive an offer letter for the course + scholarship award.

• Accept the UCL offer (and scholarship) by the deadline.

• Prepare for visa (for non-UK students), accommodation and pre-arrival logistics.

Step 7: Prepare for study in London and maximise your opportunity

• Consider how you’ll cover remaining living costs (London is expensive—accommodation, transport, food).

• Engage with UCL’s social/community networks, student societies in Computer Science/Data.

• Take advantage of internship/career services at UCL – tech companies in London value UCL graduates.

• Plan early for job search or further studies.

Key Insights & Benefits for African/Asian Applicants

1. Access to world-class education with major financial support
Studying at UCL means access to top professors, research labs, industry links, and the global brand of UCL. For under-represented applicants from Africa/Asia, this is a major boost.

2. STEM fields (CS/Data) have strong global prospects
Graduates in computer science and data analytics are highly in demand across continents. With data becoming central to business, government, health and environment, your training at UCL can unlock global career paths.

3. English test barrier reduced
If you’ve studied previously in English, especially at an institution in a country where instruction is English, you may be exempt from IELTS. This reduces cost and anxiety.

“You do not need to prove your level of English language if … you have completed at least 12 months academic education leading to an awarded qualification … and the medium of instruction was English.”

4. Need-based scholarship opens doors
Because the UCL Global Masters scholarship considers financial need, not just merit, students from lower-income backgrounds in Nigeria, Kenya, Bangladesh, Pakistan-Asia region have a genuine chance.

5. Networking & global diaspora opportunity
Studying in London at an international institution gives you exposure to global peers, tech companies, and alumni networks—which can help you build bridges back to your home country with global skills.

Your Statement of Purpose — A Simple, Strong Structure

Writing your personal statement (statement of purpose) is often the most important part of your application—both for the programme and scholarship. Here is a simple structure you can follow:

• Introduction (1 paragraph): Who you are, your academic background, where you come from (Nigeria/Kenya/India) and your interest in Computer Science/Data Analytics.

• Why this field (1-2 paragraphs): Describe your motivation—what led you to CS/Data? Perhaps a project, a job, or a challenge you observed in Africa/Asia (e.g., data for health, analytics for agriculture).

• Why UCL (1 paragraph): Why you want to study at UCL specifically. Mention the MSc Data Science or Computer Science programme, its modules, London location, research labs etc.

• Why this scholarship (1 paragraph): Explain your financial background, how this scholarship will help you, and what you plan to achieve after graduating.

• Your career plan (1 paragraph): Where you see yourself after graduation—back in your country, bridging skills, using what you’ve learned.

• Closing (1 paragraph): Sum up your motivation, readiness, and express gratitude for consideration.

Tip: Be genuine, specific and reflect your voice. Use examples of your past achievements (academics, projects, volunteer, work) and link them to your future ambitions.

Common Mistakes — And How to Avoid Them