Qualifying and applying for scholarships and bursaries

In addition to student finance support, you can search for scholarships and bursaries that may help you fund your studies. This is money that you don’t have to pay back, although usually there are conditions attached before they’re awarded to you.

Typically, you’ll find the terms scholarships and bursaries mentioned in the same sentence. A scholarship is often awarded based on academic, sporting, or musical merit, whereas a bursary might be awarded based on other criteria.

Providers of scholarships and bursaries use their own terminology, so it’s probably not worth debating too much about how the terms are used. Instead, consider how you can go about getting the free money that’s on offer.

A bursary might be awarded from the university itself depending on whether you meet certain criteria. Sometimes, that award is automatic, meaning you don’t have to do anything if you disclose the necessary information in your UCAS application.

For example, you might be care-experienced or a young carer, you might have attended a summer school or other activity run by that university, or you might be from a postcode area with low progression rates to higher education. Furthermore, if you’re applying for a healthcare course, you could be eligible for an NHS bursary.

All qualifying criteria and associated terms and conditions are specific to the university or organisation offering the bursary, so it’s important to check these out.

The list of ways for you to qualify for a scholarship could be even longer. You might be an outstanding sports person who the university would love to have playing for their first team. Perhaps you’re an aspiring musician or have a desire to study a ‘shortage’ subject, such as engineering.

Any organisation or private individual can assign a sum of money to help a student or a group of students. For example, the musician, Stormzy, has a scholarship available for black students from the UK to apply to the University of Cambridge.

Use a search engine to find the scholarship and bursary directories. Do you meet the criteria for a scholarship or bursary on offer?

The first step would be to check out the scholarships and bursaries available at the universities you’re applying to. Search their website or contact them directly to find out what they’re offering.

The next step is to get organised. Check the deadlines for applications and any terms and conditions. You can always contact the awarding organisation if you’re unsure about anything.

If you need to submit an application, make sure it’s persuasive. Get a second pair of eyes from someone you trust to check it over. A teacher or member of staff at your school or college would be ideal. Some bursaries and scholarships are highly competitive, so it’s important you give them a good reason to award the money to you.

Finally, never be ashamed to apply. Remember, someone is giving away this money for a good reason. It’s there for the taking. If you meet the criteria, go for it and good luck!