Birkbeck Scholarships 2025–26: Postgraduate and Foundation Year Financial Support

Birkbeck, University of London, is offering two non-repayable £3,000 scholarships for the 2025–26 academic year. These awards aim to support students facing financial, social, or structural barriers to higher education at the postgraduate or undergraduate level.

Access to Postgraduate Study Scholarship

Purpose:
This scholarship is intended for individuals planning to begin a master’s program at Birkbeck in 2025–26 and who are experiencing financial hardship or other life challenges that may affect their ability to study.

Eligibility:
Applicants must:

• Hold an offer for a master’s degree at Birkbeck for the 2025–26 academic year
• Not already possess a UK-taught master’s degree
• Require additional financial support to cover academic-related expenses
• Meet at least one of the following criteria:
  • Declared disability
  • Care leaver under 25 who spent at least three months in public care
  • Black, Asian, or minority ethnic background
  • Single parent
  • Unpaid carer
  • Refugee or person with humanitarian protection

Priority will be given to applicants who have had a break from formal education for three years or more.

Award Value:
The scholarship provides a one-off £3,000 grant toward tuition fees. For part-time students, the award is spread proportionately across the academic year. It cannot be used to repeat modules or academic years.

Selection Process:
Candidates are selected by faculty-based panels. Award recipients may be invited to share their educational journey as part of student and alumni engagement initiatives.

Application Deadline:
July 29, 2025
Applicants will be notified of the outcome by September 17, 2025.

Foundation Year Success Bursary

Purpose:
This bursary supports students who have completed Birkbeck’s Foundation Year and are progressing into the first year of a Birkbeck undergraduate degree.

Eligibility:
Applicants must:

• Have successfully completed a Foundation Year at Birkbeck
• Be entering Year 1 of a Birkbeck undergraduate course in 2025–26
• Be classified as a Home fee-paying student
• Complete full enrolment by October 17, 2025

Award Value:
£3,000 is awarded in the first year of undergraduate study. For part-time students, the amount is split and paid across the first two years. Continued enrolment and academic engagement are required to retain the bursary.

Selection Process:
Selection is based on a combination of eligibility and potential. Recipients may be asked to participate in activities that highlight their academic progress.

Application Deadline:
September 29, 2025
Applicants will be informed of the decision by September 22, 2025.

How to Apply

Eligible candidates for both scholarships must complete and submit their applications by the stated deadlines. These awards provide meaningful support to students committed to furthering their education despite financial or personal challenges.