For many students, finishing with a lower second-class (2:2) or third-class degree often feels like the end of the road for further academic opportunities. The truth is, this is far from reality, as numerous fully funded scholarships for second-class, lower, and third-class graduates are available worldwide. Many universities, governments, and organisations offer these scholarships to promote inclusivity, leadership, and career growth.
These scholarships are not just about academic performance; they also emphasise career goals, leadership potential, community engagement, and the ability to create change. Below are some of the best fully funded scholarships for second-class, lower and third-class graduates that you can explore:
1. University of Bradford Global Development Scholarships
The University of Bradford in the UK is well known for supporting students from countries facing wars, natural disasters, and political instability. This scholarship, formerly known as the “Countries in Crisis Scholarship,” is awarded to students who can demonstrate financial hardship, in addition to academic excellence.
It covers full tuition fees and provides additional support for living expenses, making it one of the most attractive scholarships for students in need. The University deliberately designed this program to give equal chances to students with 2:2 or even third-class degrees who are committed to using their education to rebuild their communities.
2. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners with top universities across Africa, the US, Canada, and Europe to provide full scholarships for talented but financially disadvantaged students. Unlike many traditional scholarships, the program looks beyond grades and prioritises leadership potential, a commitment to community service, and a desire to create meaningful social change.
Students with a second-class lower or even third-class degree can still be considered if they demonstrate resilience, a strong professional or volunteer background, and a clear ambition to address pressing challenges in their communities. The scholarship covers full tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and academic materials.
This is widely recognised as one of the best fully funded scholarships for second-class lower and third-class graduates who are passionate about leadership and social transformation.
3. Chevening Scholarships (UK Government)
Chevening Scholarships, funded by the UK Government, are awarded to outstanding individuals from around the world who demonstrate leadership potential and substantial professional achievements. Unlike many scholarships, Chevening does not solely focus on academic performance; applicants with a second-class lower degree can still be considered if they can demonstrate significant career accomplishments, leadership experience, and a clear plan for utilising their studies to make an impact in their home countries.
This scholarship covers tuition fees, travel costs, living expenses, and other allowances, making it one of the best fully funded scholarships for second-class lower and third-class graduates who have demonstrated professional growth and ambition in their fields.
4. Australia Awards Scholarships for African Students
Funded by the Australian Government, these scholarships are highly respected and open to students from several African countries. Unlike traditional scholarships, a lower degree classification does not automatically disqualify you.
What matters most is your leadership potential, professional experience, and a clear vision of how you plan to contribute to your home country after graduation. It covers full tuition, travel costs, living expenses, and health insurance.
5. University of Bristol Postgraduate Scholarships
The University of Bristol supports students from developing countries, such as Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, and Tanzania, through tuition fee discounts and funded opportunities. You need a minimum of a 2:2 degree and proof of an admission offer to apply for this scholarship. However, you must demonstrate strong extracurricular performance in areas such as social work, sport, leadership, or other essential fields.
This scholarship is ideal for individuals who may feel limited by their academic performance but still wish to pursue advanced studies at a world-class institution.
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6. Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarships (South Africa)
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation in South Africa provides prestigious scholarships for African students pursuing postgraduate studies. What makes this program unique is its emphasis on leadership, community service, reconciliation, and social impact, rather than purely academic grades.
Students with a second-class lower or even third-class degree can apply if they have a proven record of achievements in sports, social work, volunteerism, or community leadership. The scholarship covers full tuition, accommodation, meals, book allowances, and a personal allowance.
It is one of the best fully funded scholarships for second-class lower and third-class graduates who want to use their education to uplift communities and drive change across Africa.
7. Commonwealth Youth Awards & Scholarships
The Commonwealth Youth Awards & Scholarships recognise young leaders across Commonwealth countries who are creating positive change through sports, social entrepreneurship, volunteerism, and community service. While not strictly tied to academic performance, these awards and study opportunities are designed to support individuals with strong leadership potential and a proven track record of social impact.
Students with a second-class lower or third-class degree can still qualify if they demonstrate initiative in projects that uplift their communities. Benefits often include full or partial funding for postgraduate study, professional development, global networking, and mentorship opportunities.
8. Kenyan Government–Teesside University Scholarships
The Kenyan High Commission in the UK, in collaboration with Teesside University, provides partial tuition scholarships for Kenyan nationals. You need at least a 2:2 degree in engineering, physics, chemistry, or related fields to be eligible for this scholarship. This is a good option worth exploring if you are a Kenyan graduate who may feel left out due to lower classifications but still wants to study at a reputable UK institution.
9. Northumbria University Master’s Research Scholarship
Northumbria University, one of the largest universities in the UK, offers scholarships to students with a 2:2 or higher grade. However, those with third-class degrees may also be considered if they hold a relevant master’s degree or have significant work experience.
This makes it one of the best fully funded scholarships for second-class lower and third-class graduates who can combine academic and professional experience to prove their suitability.
10. Staffordshire University International Scholarships
Staffordshire University has a reputation for supporting international students through tuition discounts and partial funding. While priority is given to students with higher classifications, applicants with a second-class lower or third-class degree have a chance of being accepted, provided they submit excellent personal statements, references, or professional experience.
11. DeVry University International Postgraduate Scholarship
This program in the U.S. allows students with GPAs as low as 2.0 to qualify. The scholarship awards up to $2,500 per semester, depending on GPA and enrollment status, making it one of the best fully funded scholarships for second-class, lower and third-class graduates who want to study in the United States.
How Students with 2:2 or 3rd Class Can Boost Their Chances of Winning Scholarships
Having a lower degree classification doesn’t mean the end of your academic dreams. Here are strategies that can help increase your chances:
- Highlight Work Experience: Some scholarships place more emphasis on professional acumen and leadership than on academic performance. Apply for those scholarships and strongly emphasise your work experience to demonstrate your eligibility for the scholarship.
- Strong Personal Statement: Use your essay to show resilience, career goals, and how you’ll use the scholarship to make an impact.
- Leverage Recommendations: Get strong references from lecturers, employers, or mentors who can speak about your abilities beyond grades.
- Focus on Fit: Apply for scholarships that emphasise leadership, community service, sports, or financial hardship, in addition to academic performance.
- Further Education: Consider a postgraduate diploma or certificate to bridge the gap and strengthen your profile before applying for a master’s.
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Alternative Paths if Scholarships Don’t Work Out
If you don’t land a scholarship immediately, it is not the end of the world; there are still other routes that you can explore:
- Tuition Waivers and Discounts: Some universities offer partial funding to reduce fees, even if not fully funded.
- Student Loans for International Students: Programs in the U.S. and Canada allow non-citizens to access loans without collateral.
- Work-Study Opportunities: Part-time jobs in the host country can help cover living expenses while you pursue your studies.
- Online Degrees with Scholarships: Accredited online master’s programs often provide funding for international students at a lower cost.
- Reapply: Many scholarships are awarded annually. If unsuccessful the first time, improve your profile and reapply the following year.
FAQs on Scholarships for 2:2 and 3rd Class Graduates
Can a second-class lower apply for scholarships?
Yes. Many universities and organisations accept 2:2 graduates, especially if you show leadership potential, work experience, or financial need.
What is the easiest fully funded scholarship?
The Australia Awards and University of Bradford scholarships are often considered accessible because they emphasise personal growth, development goals, and financial hardship over strict academic performance.
Can 2.2 get a Chevening Scholarship?
Yes. Chevening Scholarships accept applicants with a 2:2 as long as you can demonstrate exceptional leadership and networking potential.
Which country is best for a full free scholarship?
The UK, Australia, and Canada are top destinations offering some of the best fully funded scholarships for second-class, lower and third-class graduates, with programs tailored for developing countries and non-traditional applicants.
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Finishing with a second-class lower or third-class degree does not mean the end of your academic journey. Many universities and international programs now prioritise leadership, resilience, and financial need over grades. By applying strategically, highlighting your strengths, and exploring alternatives, you can secure some of the best fully funded scholarships for second-class lower and third-class graduates and turn your dreams into reality.
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