UK Scholarship Calculator 2025/26 | Find Student Scholarships & Bursaries

UK university students can access various scholarships including academic excellence scholarships (based on grades), subject-specific scholarships (STEM, medicine, law), access bursaries (income-based), sport scholarships, music/arts scholarships, and special circumstance awards. Most universities offer their own scholarship programs alongside national schemes like NHS bursaries and teacher training incentives.

Application processes vary by scholarship. Some are automatic based on your UCAS application grades, while others require separate applications with personal statements, references, or evidence of achievements. Check individual university websites for specific deadlines, typically between November and March before your course starts. For income-based bursaries, you'll need to complete the student finance application.

Scholarships are typically awarded based on merit (academic achievement, sporting excellence, or talent), while bursaries are usually based on financial need (household income). Both provide financial support that doesn't need to be repaid. Some awards combine elements of both merit and need. Grants from Student Finance are also non-repayable, unlike loans.

Yes, in many cases you can stack multiple awards. For example, you might receive an academic excellence scholarship, a subject-specific award, and an income-based bursary simultaneously. However, some scholarships have rules about combining with other funding - always check the terms and conditions. Some may reduce if you receive other awards.

Scholarships and bursaries generally don't affect your student loan entitlement. You can receive both. However, some income-assessed support (like maintenance loans) may be affected by large scholarship amounts.

Scholarships that pay tuition directly may reduce the tuition fee loan you need. Always check with Student Finance for your specific situation.

Requirements vary by university and scholarship. Top academic scholarships typically require A*AA or higher at A-Level (or equivalent). Many universities offer tiered scholarships - for example, £5,000 for AAA, £3,000 for AAB. For postgraduate scholarships, a First Class degree is usually required for the most competitive awards, with 2:1 being the minimum for most.

Yes, many universities offer specific support for mature students (typically aged 21+ for undergraduate, 25+ for postgraduate). These may include access bursaries, part-time study grants, and childcare support. The Adult Dependants' Grant (up to £3,354) helps students with financial dependants. Some charities specifically fund mature learners returning to education.

Yes, many UK universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. Notable schemes include Chevening Scholarships (fully funded Master's), Commonwealth Scholarships, GREAT Scholarships (£10,000+ from participating universities), and university-specific international merit awards. These can cover tuition fees, living costs, or both. Competition is typically very high.