The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is one of the most prestigious institutions for higher education, attracting students from all over the world. However, studying at LSE can be expensive, especially for international students. To help ease the financial burden, LSE offers the Graduate Support Scheme (GSS), a funding initiative designed to provide financial assistance to postgraduate students based on need.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the LSE Graduate Support Scheme, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, funding benefits, and tips to increase your chances of securing financial aid.
What Is the LSE Graduate Support Scheme (GSS)?
The Graduate Support Scheme (GSS) is a need-based financial aid program designed to assist students who require financial support to pursue a taught master’s degree at LSE. Unlike merit-based scholarships, the GSS considers a student’s financial situation and funding gap rather than academic achievements alone.
Key Features of the Graduate Support Scheme
✔ Available for taught master’s programs (not applicable for PhD or executive programs).
✔ Awarded based on financial need, not academic performance.
✔ Funding amounts vary, usually between £5,000 and £15,000 per student.
✔ Available to both UK and international students.
✔ Can be combined with other LSE scholarships or external funding.
This scheme is ideal for students who demonstrate financial need but are committed to pursuing a graduate degree at LSE.
Eligibility Criteria for the LSE Graduate Support Scheme
To be considered for GSS funding, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements.
1. Must Be Applying for an Eligible Taught Master’s Program
✔ The Graduate Support Scheme is only available for LSE taught master’s programs.
✔ Not applicable for PhD, executive, or undergraduate programs.
2. Must Have Received an Offer of Admission
✔ You must first apply for a taught master’s program at LSE and receive either:
- A conditional offer (pending academic results).
- An unconditional offer (fully accepted).
3. Demonstrate Financial Need
✔ Funding is need-based, meaning applicants must provide details of their financial situation.
✔ Students must submit information about personal savings, expected contributions, and financial shortfalls.
4. Open to All Nationalities
✔ UK, EU, and international students are eligible.
✔ No restrictions based on nationality or country of origin.
Meeting these eligibility criteria ensures that students are considered for GSS funding, making their LSE education more financially feasible.
How Much Funding Can You Get?
The funding amount awarded through the Graduate Support Scheme varies depending on financial need and available funds.
Typical GSS Funding Amounts
✔ Awards range from £5,000 to £15,000 per student.
✔ In some cases, students may receive higher or lower amounts depending on financial circumstances.
✔ The amount granted does not cover full tuition and living expenses, so students must secure additional funding.
GSS awards are grants, not loans, meaning recipients do not have to repay the amount received.
How to Apply for the LSE Graduate Support Scheme
The GSS application process is straightforward but requires careful preparation to demonstrate financial need effectively.
Step 1: Apply for a Master’s Program at LSE
✔ Before applying for the Graduate Support Scheme, you must first submit an application for a taught master’s program at LSE.
✔ Applications for LSE master’s programs are submitted via the LSE Graduate Admissions Portal.
✔ Ensure that you meet the academic and English language requirements for your chosen program.
Step 2: Receive an Admission Offer (Conditional or Unconditional)
✔ You must receive either:
- A conditional offer, meaning you still need to meet some entry requirements.
- An unconditional offer, meaning you have fully met all requirements.
✔ Only offer holders are eligible to apply for Graduate Support Scheme funding.
Step 3: Complete the Graduate Financial Support Application Form
✔ Once you have received an offer, you will gain access to the Graduate Financial Support Application form via your LSE Graduate Application Portal.
✔ The form is submitted online and requires detailed information about your financial circumstances.
Step 4: Provide Detailed Financial Information
✔ LSE requires applicants to declare financial resources, including:
- Personal savings and assets.
- Family contributions or financial support from parents/guardians.
- Other scholarship or loan applications.
- Estimated expenses for tuition and living costs.
✔ The application form helps LSE assess how much financial support you need.
Step 5: Submit the GSS Application Before the Deadline
✔ Applications for the Graduate Support Scheme should be submitted as early as possible.
✔ LSE allocates funding on a rolling basis, meaning early applicants have a higher chance of receiving funding.
Step 6: Await the Funding Decision
✔ After submission, LSE will review your application and assess financial need.
✔ If successful, you will receive a funding offer detailing the amount awarded.
✔ You can accept the offer alongside any other scholarships or external funding.
Following these steps correctly improves your chances of securing GSS funding for your master’s studies at LSE.
Important Deadlines for the LSE Graduate Support Scheme
The GSS application does not have a separate deadline but follows the admission cycle for LSE master’s programs.
Key Dates to Remember
✔ Master’s program applications open: September/October each year.
✔ GSS applications open: After receiving an admission offer.
✔ Early applications have higher funding chances – apply as soon as you receive an offer.
Since funds are allocated on a rolling basis, applying early increases the likelihood of receiving financial support.
Tips for a Successful LSE Graduate Support Scheme Application
Since GSS funding is highly competitive, follow these tips to maximize your chances of success.
1. Apply for a Master’s Program as Early as Possible
✔ The earlier you receive an admission offer, the sooner you can apply for GSS funding.
✔ Delays in admission processing may limit funding availability.
2. Provide Accurate and Detailed Financial Information
✔ Be honest and transparent about your financial situation.
✔ Include details about family income, personal savings, and expected financial gaps.
3. Show Why You Need Financial Assistance
✔ Clearly explain your financial shortfall and why you cannot fully self-fund.
✔ Stronger financial need increases your chances of receiving a higher award.
4. Explore Additional Funding Options
✔ The GSS does not cover full tuition and expenses, so consider:
- Other LSE scholarships (e.g., LSE Master’s Awards).
- External funding sources (government grants, private scholarships).
5. Monitor Your Application Portal for Updates
✔ Check your LSE application portal regularly for updates on your funding application.
✔ Respond to any requests for additional information from LSE.
By following these application strategies, you improve your chances of securing Graduate Support Scheme funding.
Conclusion
The London School of Economics (LSE) Graduate Support Scheme is an excellent financial aid opportunity for students who need financial assistance to pursue a master’s degree at LSE.
By understanding eligibility requirements, funding benefits, and application procedures, prospective students can maximize their chances of securing GSS funding.
To successfully apply:
✔ Apply early for your LSE master’s program.
✔ Demonstrate clear financial need in your GSS application.
✔ Explore additional funding sources to cover full expenses.
With careful preparation and a strong application, you can ease the financial burden of studying at one of the world’s top universities.