London South Bank University - Care Leavers' Bursary

Care Leavers' Bursary at London South Bank University

You will receive £1,000 per year (about 1,150 EUR) for the duration of your Bachelor’s degree. London South Bank University (LSBU) pays this amount in two instalments per year; for part-time students, it is reduced on a pro rata basis. This support is aimed at students who are no longer receiving support from local authorities. You will also receive additional support: a dedicated point of contact within the Student Advice Team, priority access to the university’s hardship fund, a 52-week room in LSBU halls of residence, covering the winter and summer holidays, a free gym membership, and personalised advice on finance, careers and wellbeing.

Who can apply

• University: You are enrolled as a Bachelor’s student at LSBU.
• Age: You are under 25.
• Care experience: You are a former resident of a care home within the meaning of the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000. This means that, at some point after reaching the age of 14, you spent at least 13 weeks in the care of a local authority, and that this care ended on or after your 16th birthday.
• Verification: Student Finance must confirm your status as a former hall resident. If this has not yet been done, but you believe you meet the criteria, please contact the Student Advice Team.
• Field of study: All subjects.
• Nationality: All nationalities studying at LSBU.

How to apply

When applying via UCAS, please indicate that you have been discharged from care by ticking the relevant box, and repeat this on the LSBU enrolment form. Once Student Finance has confirmed your status, LSBU will automatically contact eligible students during the second half of the first semester. There is no specific deadline that needs to be met.

How realistic are your chances?

This is not an award presented as part of a competition. It is awarded to all LSBU students on the 25 foundation year programme who meet the definition of a ‘care leaver’ and whose status has been confirmed by Student Finance. There is no selection panel. If you meet these criteria, you are, in effect, entitled to the scholarship. The most important thing is that your status is flagged and verified so that the university can contact you.