Celebrating Global Talent: International Scholarships Reception
Newcastle University welcomed a cohort of its 2025 international scholarship recipients to an evening reception celebrating their achievements and ongoing contributions to our academic community.
9 December 2025
A night of celebration and connection
This event, held at St. James’ Park, the iconic home of Newcastle United brought together scholars, senior University leaders, and staff for an inspiring evening of networking, celebration and cultural exchange.
From welcoming speeches to stories of resilience and success, the event showcased the positive impact of our global scholarship community.
Supporting international students
Newcastle University’s International Scholarships scheme reflects our ongoing commitment to attracting and supporting talented students from around the world to study with us.
These scholarships not only recognise academic excellence but acknowledge the positive contribution international students make to our campus. They bring diverse perspectives to lecture halls, labs, and the wider community, enriching cultural and intellectual life and preparing all students to thrive in an interconnected world.
This year’s reception featured:
- A warm welcome from Deputy Vice Chancellor, Nigel Harkness
- Inspiring talks from past scholars and alumni, sharing stories of success and advice for making the most of life at Newcastle
- Networking opportunities with fellow scholarship recipients, alumni and University staff, fostering new connections and professional contacts
- Personal development insights designed to help new scholars thrive during their time at Newcastle and top tips on making the most of the opportunities on offer
This celebration recognises your outstanding achievements, your hard work, and the dedication that earned you a place at Newcastle University. Winning a competitive international scholarship is a remarkable accomplishment.
Inspiring voices from our global community
Reflections from alumnus Kirils
Guests heard from alumnus, Kirils a MEng Civil and Structural Engineering graduate. He reflected on his own Newcastle journey and the values that continue to shape his career.
Sharing how his brother’s academic path at Newcastle inspired his own, he spoke about the friendships formed and the knowledge gained in a truly international environment and how those experiences now inform his work on global sustainability.
He said, "Newcastle gave me more than a degree. It gave me a way of thinking. The values and approaches I learned here have helped me drive change in my industry and contribute to global conversations, including at UNFCCC COP summits. My advice to current scholars is to embrace the opportunities and take these positive experiences forward into society and the wider world.”
Fahmina’s Story: Strength, support and success
The reception also featured an uplifting speech from Fahmina, a current PhD student and former British Council Women in STEM Scholarship awardee. She shared her journey of undertaking a Masters in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security at Newcastle, balancing academic ambition with family responsibilities.
Reflecting on her experience, she spoke about the challenges of adapting to a new country while raising children and pursuing a demanding degree, and in particular how Newcastle’s supportive environment made success possible.
Fahmina commented: “Three years ago, I sat where many of you are sitting now. Nervous, excited, full of dreams. Today, I can say that my time at Newcastle has been life-changing. What helped me most were the people around me. From flexible school arrangements for my children to the incredible support of supervisors and friends.
"That trust and mentorship was invaluable in getting me here. To the new cohort, my advice is simple: you are not alone here. Step out of your shell, explore, and build friendships. This time abroad is your chance to spread your wings and break the chains that might otherwise hold you back. I wish each of you a powerful, fulfilling journey at Newcastle University.”
Their words captured the spirit of fortitude and opportunity that defines Newcastle’s international community, inspiring new scholars in attendance to embrace every aspect of their journey.
The evening’s celebrations were enriched by a musical performance from one of our current scholars Drilden, adding a touch of festivity to the occasion.
Enabling students to succeed
Our International Scholarships scheme has been running for six years, supporting hundreds of international students in fulfilling their educational ambitions.
Each year, Newcastle welcomes thousands of students from across the globe, drawn by its world-class education, rich heritage, vibrant multicultural life, and lower living costs compared to other major UK cities.
Global Scholarships for 2026: Applications now open
Looking ahead, applications are now open for our Global Scholarships for 2026 entry.
We offer over 1,000 scholarships for international and EU students. These prestigious schemes offer successful applicants up to £8,000 or full tuition fee coverage, helping talented students from around the world access a world-class education.
Building the next generation of global leaders
More than just financial support, these scholarships are designed to foster academic excellence, develop future leaders, and inspire the next generation.
Reflecting on the Scholarships launch, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Nigel Harkness said,
“We are delighted to launch our global scholarships scheme and support the next cohort of international students. You enrich our university every day. You bring fresh ideas, diverse perspectives, and an energy that elevates our entire community.
"Whether you are hoping to study climate change, health, business or technology, the work you undertake with us will contribute to our shared understanding and help address the challenges that shape our shared future.”