Student Bursaries UK

A bursary award, or simply a bursary, is a sum of money given to students based on financial need and/or academic performance. A bursary award is provided to the student by the educational institution and is similar to scholarships awarded by schools and institutions. In several cases, bursaries are awarded on a first-come-first-served basis, so it is advisable to enquire early. 

The 16 to 19 Bursary Fund

If you’re aged between 16 and 19, you could be eligible for the 16 to 19 Bursary Fund to help with education-related costs. You’ll need to be studying at a school or college in England (not a university), or on an unpaid training course. If eligible, you could get up to £1,200. 

There are 2 types of 16 to 19 bursary:

1. Vulnerable student bursary

If you’re in local authority care or have recently left it, if you receive income support or universal credit, or if you are disabled and receive both employment support allowance (ESA) and disability living allowance (DLA) or universal credit, or you get personal independence payment (PIP), you could be eligible for this.

2. Discretionary bursary

You could get a discretionary bursary if you need financial help but do not qualify for a bursary for students in vulnerable groups. Your education or training provider decides how much you get and what it’s used for.

If you are over 19, you will only be eligible for a discretionary bursary.

Your benefactor will decide how you get your bursary, whether it is an instalment paid by cash, cheque or bank transfer. If it is inclusive of a travel allowance, free meals, or text books. Some providers also offer one-off payments to cover study trips or travel for university interviews. It is important for you to express your needs. 

How to claim

Apply to your school, college or training provider. Ask student services or your tutor to explain what you need to do.

When to apply

Apply once you know where you’ll study or train, so you’ll get your bursary as soon as possible.

You might need to reapply for a bursary for each year of your course. It is best to confirm this with your provider.