With expensive university fees and an ever-increasing cost of living, student life is tougher than ever financially. Budgeting for student fees, course texts, student accommodation costs, and utility bills may seem like an endless outpouring of money, but there is help at hand in the form of scholarships. Depending on your circumstances, there are a variety of scholarships waiting to be claimed; some are reliant on your parental income, providing financial assistance when parents cannot, and others consider geography, subject or academic achievement. You just need to know what types of student scholarships are available, whether you’re eligible, and how to apply. Here are some basics to help you get started…
Types of Student Scholarships
Some universities, such as the University of Edinburgh, offer scholarship funds for overseas students wanting to study abroad; these are applied for before the academic year begins, usually during the application process. Likewise, if you are studying in your home country, there can be funding for any study required abroad. Academic excellence grants may be available if you scored exceptional grades, these can be from your local county or your chosen university, and there are also hardship grants available from your university during term time to help alleviate difficulties with the cost of student living; these are on a case by case basis and you will be asked to provide proof of financial hardship. Access funding exists for mature students, as well as grants for your chosen subject, such as the Engineering and Computer Science Scholarships at the University of Hertfordshire.
Choosing the Right Scholarship
There’s no guarantee you will receive any of the student scholarships that you apply for, but a sure-fire way to be rejected is to apply for the wrong funding. Read the application guidelines closely to make sure that you’re eligible for the award, otherwise you’re wasting valuable time. Also, think outside the box; for instance, study abroad scholarships are not limited to studying languages. Many other degree courses, such as classics, history, arts and teaching, can include a year of study abroad so if this is something that interests you, don’t let tight funds get in the way of your dreams. Also, see what your local county council and businesses offer, as well as your university. Most forms are submitted electronically, but each application will have specific guidelines on how and when to submit; make sure you adhere to these for the best possible chance of receiving some much-needed extra funding.