Scottish Government - Independent Students' Bursary

Independent Students' Bursary (SAAS)

You will receive up to about 1,150 EUR per year (up to £1,000) as a grant, which you will never have to repay. This is in addition to your student loan for living costs and therefore replaces part of that loan with money that you are allowed to keep. You will receive it monthly during the term or in 12 monthly instalments. It is paid out by the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS), the Scottish Government body responsible for student finance. You must reapply for it each academic year.

Who can apply

• Where you live: You usually live in Scotland.
• Degree level: You are a full-time undergraduate student and are working towards your first academic degree at a recognised British university.
• Independent status: You are considered an ‘independent student’. At least one of the following applies: You are 25 or older at the start of the academic year; you are or have been married or are in a registered civil partnership; you live with a partner; you have dependent children; you have been financially independent for at least three years; or you have no contact with your parents.
• Household income: Your household earns up to £20,999 per year (around 24,000 euros). If you earn more than this, you will receive nothing.
• No overlap: As you are not receiving a scholarship for students with care experience, this scholarship is not an option for you.
• Field of study: Any subject.

How to apply

You apply online via SAAS. With a single application, you can apply for both your tuition fee loan and your living costs loan. For the 2026/27 academic year, the application period begins in April 2026. Apply by 30 June 2026 to ensure that the funds are paid out in good time. You must reapply each academic year.

How realistic are your chances?

This is not an award presented as part of a competition. It is a fixed state grant available to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria. The main requirements are an income below £21,000 and being classified as an independent student. If you clearly meet both requirements and submit your application by the deadline with the relevant supporting documents, you will receive the grant.