Financial worries are one of the biggest barriers to higher education. Almost half of prospective students (48%) say money concerns limit their choices. Scholarships and bursaries can make a real difference — yet finding reliable, up-to-date information about them can be difficult.
The UCAS Scholarships, Bursaries and Grants search tool is a new feature designed to help prospective students discover financial support opportunities offered by UK universities. It enhances visibility and accessibility of funding opportunities during the discovery and application journey.
As an adviser, understanding the range of funding schemes available can make a powerful difference in how you guide and support your students.
Here are five ways this new service will help you do just that:
1. Easier access to comprehensive financial support information
Quickly find relevant funding opportunities across UK universities, tailored to your students’ academic background, personal circumstances, or financial needs. This centralised resource will save you time and simplify the search process for both you and your students.
2. Accurate and effective guidance
Each listing will clearly outline the eligibility criteria, award amount, and application requirements — helping you provide precise, up-to-date advice that students can trust.
3. Supporting widening participation
For students from disadvantaged or under-represented backgrounds, visibility is key. By showcasing targeted scholarships and bursaries directly on UCAS.com, advisers can more easily identify opportunities that help break down financial barriers and encourage students to apply with confidence.
4. Reducing financial anxiety and enabling informed decisions
Access to clear, trustworthy information can transform how students feel about funding their studies. When advisers can point to a single, reliable source of financial support information, uncertainty is reduced, trust grows, and students can make decisions with greater confidence.
5. Highlighting additional benefits beyond funding
Some scholarships go beyond financial aid — offering internships, networking opportunities, mentoring, or even accommodation discounts. By showcasing these wider benefits, advisers can help students see the full value of what’s on offer.
We've gone live with 789 funding opportunities and this will continue to develop as more providers use the tool.
