If you think you’ve missed your chance to secure a scholarship for 2026, think again.
Every year, thousands of students assume scholarship deadlines are over by early spring but that’s far from the truth. In reality, many undergraduate scholarships are still open right now, especially between April and August, with rolling deadlines and mid-year application windows.
This article highlights undergraduate scholarships you can still apply for this month, where to find them, and how to maximize your chances before deadlines close.
Why Scholarships Are Still Open Right Now
Scholarships don’t operate on a single global deadline. Instead, they follow a year-round cycle, meaning opportunities open and close at different times depending on the country and institution.
For example:
- Some scholarships open mid-year (May–August)
- Others use rolling deadlines
- Many universities offer last-minute merit awards
In fact, there are currently over 100+ scholarships with active or flexible deadlines available globally.
That means you still have a real chance—if you act fast.
Top Undergraduate Scholarships Still Open This Month
Here are some of the most relevant scholarships you can still apply for right now:
1. Birkbeck International Excellence Scholarship (UK)
The Birkbeck, University of London offers this scholarship to international students enrolling in 2026.
Deadline: Multiple deadlines between May and August 2026
What it offers:
- £1,000–£5,000 tuition discount
Why it’s important:
This is a rolling scholarship, meaning you can still apply across several months if you meet the criteria.
2. Iowa State University International Merit Scholarship (USA)
This is one of the most accessible undergraduate scholarships still open for international students.
Deadline:
- May 1, 2026 (first-year students)
- June 30, 2026 (transfer students)
What it offers:
- Partial tuition funding
Best for: Students with strong academic performance applying to U.S. universities.
3. UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship (UK)
Offered by University College London, this scholarship supports students from low-income backgrounds.
Deadline: Late April (some cycles extend or reopen depending on admission rounds)
What it offers:
- Full or partial tuition
- Living support
Key insight:
Even if the main deadline has passed, similar institutional scholarships may still be open—so always check alternative funding options.
4. Kalyan Engineering Scholarship – Imperial College London
This scholarship is ideal for engineering students.
Deadline: May 29, 2026
What it offers:
- Financial support for engineering degrees
Best for: High-achieving students pursuing STEM fields.
5. Xiamen University Scholarships (China)
Chinese universities continue to offer some of the most flexible deadlines.
Deadline: Around May 10, 2026
What it offers:
- Tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend
Why it stands out:
China is one of the few destinations where late applications are still widely accepted, even for undergraduate programs.
6. Sydney International Undergraduate Academic Excellence Scholarship
Offered by the University of Sydney.
Deadline: May 2026 (varies by intake)
What it offers:
- Significant tuition support
Best for: High-performing international students applying for mid-year intake.
7. Other Scholarships Still Open (Rolling & Flexible)
Beyond specific programs, many scholarships remain open because they:
- Accept applications year-round
- Have multiple intake periods
- Offer automatic consideration upon admission
Examples include:
- Merit-based university scholarships
- Country-specific funding programs
- Private and foundation scholarships
The key is to filter by “currently open” or “rolling deadline” opportunities.
Where to Find More Scholarships Right Now
If you want more opportunities like these, use these strategies:
1. Focus on “Still Open” Listings
Scholarship directories often have filters for active deadlines.
2. Check University Websites Directly
Many schools don’t advertise widely but still offer funding.
3. Target Mid-Year Intakes
Countries like:
- UK
- Australia
- China
…often have second admission rounds with scholarships attached.
How to Apply Quickly (Even If You’re Late)
Time is your biggest challenge—but you can still win if you move strategically.
1. Prioritize Speed Over Perfection
Submit strong applications quickly rather than waiting for “perfect.”
2. Reuse Core Documents
Have these ready:
- Personal statement
- Academic transcripts
- CV
Then tweak them slightly for each application.
3. Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Don’t rely on just one—apply to at least 3–5.
4. Focus on Less Competitive Options
Late-cycle scholarships often receive fewer applications.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming all deadlines have passed
- Ignoring smaller or lesser-known scholarships
- Submitting incomplete applications
- Not checking eligibility requirements
One of the biggest mistakes students make is simply not applying at all because they think it’s too late.
Also See: Top Scholarships in Canada for Nigerian Students (2026 Guide)
Final Thoughts
Yes, many major scholarships close early—but that doesn’t mean your opportunity is gone.
Right now, there are still:
- Rolling scholarships
- Mid-year intake funding
- University-specific awards
- Country-based programs
Available for undergraduate students.
The real advantage goes to students who understand one thing:
Scholarships are not a one-time event—they are a continuous cycle. (Scholarships Lists)
If you act fast, stay organized, and apply strategically, you can still secure funding this month—and change your academic future.