[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Ever wonder how people get to go to University for free? It sounds too good to be true, right?
Well, we’re here to tell you that it’s entirely possible AND within your reach. Keep reading to find out all you need to know about University scholarships, grants, or bursaries as well as helpful tips when applying.
1) WHAT IS A SCHOLARSHIP?
A scholarship isn’t about having a load of money chucked at you for your degree! They are awarded for many different reasons, often dependent on the type of organisation that is awarding the scholarships. Different organisations will have different motives for offering scholarships.
So, let’s break it down. There are x3 main types of University Scholarships
– Scholarships: These cover the widest range of options but are predominantly money given for something you have achieved, whether this is an academic talent or extracurricular program/qualification.
-Grants: A grant can be given for achievement, personal circumstance or financial need. These are usually given out by charitable organisations established to support people from specific groups, for example people from a particular area, social or religious background, disabilities or those suffering hardship.
-Bursaries: These are usually given for financial need by organisations which want to support students from low income households or under represented groups, such as Social Work Bursaries (offered to students studying to become a Social Worker).
To sum up…it doesn’t really matter which one you get! The important part is understanding the difference so you can apply for a scholarship that fits your eligibility criteria.
2) WHAT ARE MY CHANCES?
You may think a scholarship is completely unachievable for you, but this is not the case. There is in fact such a low application percentage rate compared to the number of different organisations offering scholarships, you could find the odds are stacked in your favour.
Of course there is no hack or cheat code of applying and succeeding, however there are certainly scholarships out there for which everyone is eligible and if you don’t apply, you don’t get!
3) HOW DO I KNOW WHICH ONE TO APPLY FOR?
Most important of all, you need to find the right scholarship for you.
This can feel a little overwhelming as there are so many options and avenues to choose from. We suggest using The Scholarship Hub’s database for the most simple structure to follow when looking for scholarships.
They also have great information elsewhere on their website with different tips on applying and finding the right scholarship for you.
It is also worth researching small charities which work on grants for educational support. The Guide to Educational Grants is a book which lists all of these and can be found in larger libraries. Alternatively you can access a database of 3,500 charities & trusts which offer educational grants with our Members Benefits.
So, there you have it! A simple guide to scholarships, remember please do check out our friends at the The Scholarship Hub for more information.
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