Find scholarships, bursaries, and grants
You could be eligible for more funding than you think.
Explore scholarships, bursaries, and grants matched to your background, achievements, or chosen course, and get support for your study and living costs.
Scholarships, grants and bursaries FAQs
Here we answer your top questions about scholarships, grants and bursaries.
What's on this page?
If you’re struggling financially, you may want to look into scholarships. Here’s a breakdown of what they are and how to apply.
What the difference between grants and bursaries? Are they similar to scholarships? How do you even apply for them? Find the information you need here.
Scholarships FAQs
What uni scholarships are available?
Scholarships vary by university and include merit-based, subject-specific, sports, music, and need-based awards. Check individual university websites for their full scholarship listings.
How to find university scholarships?
Search university websites directly, and use our scholarships search to find the best opportunities. Don't forget to check UCAS course pages for institution-specific opportunities.
How do I know if I'm eligible for a uni scholarship?
Eligibility criteria are listed on each scholarship's webpage and typically include academic grades, nationality, subject of study, or financial circumstances.
How hard is it to get a uni scholarship?
It varies. Some scholarships are automatic based on grades while others require applications and have acceptance rates ranging from highly competitive to relatively accessible. All information can be found on university or scholarships specific websites.
Can you get a 100% scholarship in the UK?
Yes, some universities offer full scholarships covering tuition and living costs, though these are rare and highly competitive. Examples include the Gates Cambridge Scholarship and some university-specific awards.
What types of university scholarship are there?
Types include merit-based, subject-specific, sports and arts, need-based, international student scholarships, and awards for underrepresented groups.
Bursaries FAQs
What is a university bursary and how is it different from a scholarship or grant?
A bursary is non-repayable financial support from universities based primarily on financial need, while scholarships focus on merit and grants typically come from government sources.
Are bursaries only for low-income students?
Most bursaries target low-income students, but some universities also offer bursaries for care leavers, estranged students, or those from underrepresented backgrounds, regardless of income.
Do all universities offer bursaries?
Most UK universities offer some form of bursary, but the amounts, eligibility criteria, and availability vary significantly between institutions.
Are there bursaries for specific subjects or careers (e.g., teaching, nursing)?
Yes, subject-specific bursaries exist particularly for high-priority fields like teaching, nursing, and social work. Check individual university websites for more information.
Can mature students get bursaries?
Yes, many universities offer bursaries specifically for mature students (typically 21+), alongside standard income-based bursaries they may also qualify for.
How do you qualify for a university bursary?
Qualification typically depends on household income (often under £25,000-£42,875), which is assessed through your Student Finance application. Universities will use this data automatically.
How do university bursaries work in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland?
Each nation has different systems: Scotland offers bursaries through SAAS, Wales through Student Finance Wales, and Northern Ireland through Student Finance NI. Check the respective student finance bodies for details. Remember, this is based on where you live, not where you're going to study.
Can international students apply for bursaries?
Some universities offer bursaries specifically for international students, but these are less common than scholarships. Check individual university international student pages for more information.
Scholarships, grants, and bursaries
If your student loan won’t nearly be enough to cover your university costs, check out these extra ways of receiving funds to help with living expenses and tuition fees.
Student grants FAQs
How do student grants work?
Student grants are non-repayable payments from government or universities to help with living costs, awarded based on household income and personal circumstances through Student Finance.
How to apply for a student grant online in the UK?
Apply through your student finance body: SFE for England, SAAS for Scotland, Student Finance Wales, or Student Finance NI. Grants are assessed automatically with your loan application.
Do you have to pay back your student grant?
No, grants are non-repayable unlike student loans. They're extra money to support your living costs while studying.
When do student maintenance grants get paid?
Grants are paid directly into your bank account at the start of each term, typically September, January, and April, alongside your maintenance loan.
Who qualifies for a student grant?
Eligibility depends on household income (typically under £25,000-£58,000 depending on the grant), residency status, course type, and whether you're a first-time undergraduate. Check gov.uk for more details.