University of Sheffield - Care leavers

Care Leavers Enhanced Bursary at the University of Sheffield

You will receive up to 10,000 GBP per year (about 11,500 EUR) if you are studying at the University of Sheffield and were brought up in a foster family rather than with your own family. A grant is a sum of money that you do not have to pay back, unless you drop out of your studies early. This money comes from the university and is awarded in addition to any government student finance. How you receive it depends on where you live. If you move into a room in a student hall of residence, you will receive 4,500 GBP in cash, and the university will pay for your accommodation directly – for up to 52 weeks, including the summer if you need it. If you are renting privately, you will receive the full amount of 10,000 GBP in four instalments. Part-time students on a lifelong learning course at the School of Education will receive up to 5,000 GBP. This grant replaces the University of Sheffield’s standard grant, so you cannot claim both.

Who can apply

• Care background: You were in the care of a local authority for at least 13 weeks, and this care came to an end after your 16th birthday. Adoption or short-term private placement with a family does not count towards this.
• Level: You are just starting a degree at the first level (Bachelor’s) or are already studying at this level, whether full-time or part-time.
• Field of study: Any topic is fine.
• On campus: You are studying on a face-to-face course. Distance-learning courses do not count.
• Age: You are in 25 on 1 September of your first year.
• Fee status and funding: You are paying home (UK) tuition fees and have applied for a student loan. The lending body must have recognised you as financially independent on the basis of your care experience. If you would prefer not to take out a loan, you can apply for a loan of 0 GBP so that the university can still assess your application.

How to apply

Please complete the online form ‘Extended Support for Former Children in Care’ as soon as you have received your offer of a place or have already enrolled. Enclose proof of your time in foster care, such as a letter from your local authority or social services, as well as confirmation from the student finance office that you are considered independent.

How realistic are your chances?

You are not competing with other applicants. This scholarship is aimed at a specific target group; so if you meet all the eligibility criteria, you will receive it. The real hurdle is providing proof. Make sure you can provide documentation showing that you were in care for at least 13 weeks, ending after the age of 16, and ensure that the credit office records your status as self-employed at an early stage. Without this documentation, the university cannot pay out the grant.