Going to university can be expensive, and on top of paying for your tuition fees, there’s accommodation, food shopping, travel costs, and other bills to take into consideration. This is why it could be a good idea to look into the scholarships and bursaries that may be on offer.
Thousands of students miss out on additional funding as they either think they won’t be eligible, or don’t know what’s available. There’s a lot to think about when applying for a university scholarship or bursary, so we’ve put together some of our top tips to help you with your application.
Bursaries vs scholarships
It’s important to understand the difference between university bursaries and scholarships before you begin an application for one. They can range from a few hundred to thousands of pounds, and some will be awarded automatically, while some you must apply for. However, the main differences are that:
- Scholarships are awarded to students who excel in a specific subject area or are a reward for academic achievements. This usually means they’re the most competitive.
- Bursaries are awarded to students who might be facing a barrier to Higher Education and therefore might need more financial aid for their studies. This could include a care leaver or someone from a low-income household. Bursaries can also be for those interested in a particular career path where graduates are in shorter supply.
The good news is, whether you’re applying for a scholarship or bursary, unlike a student loan, they don’t need to be paid back.
Do your research and apply early
Undertaking thorough research of the scholarships and bursaries available to you may improve your chances of success, and although it’ll require some time and effort, it’ll all be worth it in the end if you’re awarded one. Staying organised and keeping on top of deadlines is crucial – some of which may even be before university starts, so it’s good to start your research at the same time as looking into which course you want to study.
The scholarships and bursaries section of our website is a great place to start, and we offer a wide range of funding options including undergraduate, postgraduate, and international scholarships and bursaries, as well as some for specific subjects like medicine and sport. You’ll also find other information such as funding for armed forces personnel, the disabled students’ allowance, and the NHS Learning Support Fund.
We also explain more about scholarships and bursaries here.
Check if you're eligible
It may sound obvious, but always check the eligibility criteria carefully and read the guidance notes before you apply for a scholarship or bursary. Pay attention to the details so you’re not wasting time on an application for something you aren’t entitled to.
Whether you’re eligible for a university bursary or scholarship will depend on several different factors, such as your household income, your grades, your nationality, your specific course or subject, or other special circumstances.
"During my studying, I was eligible for the Futures Fund Scholarship, which was a tremendous help to me during the first semester of my final year. The support from the scholarship meant I could reduce my working hours so that I could focus on my dissertation. I was also entitled to receive funds from StudyPLUS which allowed me to purchase essential books and resources for my assignments.”
Keeley Davidson
BSc (Hons) Criminology with Integrated Foundation Year
Personalise each application
Just like when you apply for a job and personalise your CV and cover letter to each one, the same is recommended for a university scholarship or bursary, as the applications won’t all be the same. Don’t be tempted to submit an application that comes across too generic. Demonstrate clearly how you meet the eligibility criteria and explain how it’ll help you financially, offering some good examples to make your application stand out.
This is your chance to make a good impression, so try to make your application sound more factual rather than emotional when describing your financial situation. It’s also a good idea to choose your references carefully and ensure they’re specific to each scholarship or bursary you apply for.
Ask for feedback
Before submitting your application, always ask someone you trust to proofread it, whether that be a family member, close friend, or teacher. Double check for any spelling mistakes or grammar errors, and make sure all your contact information is up to date.
If you need further help or have any questions about your scholarship or bursary application, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team at scholarships@sunderland.ac.uk. Or why not join us for an Open Day where you can speak to us directly and look around our fantastic campuses?
Published: 13 August 2024