University of Strathclyde - Thomas and Margaret Roddan Trust

What you get

You will receive a one-off payment of about 580 EUR (up to GBP 500 at Abertay University, and up to GBP 3,000 at some other Scottish universities) if you find yourself in unexpected financial difficulty whilst studying. This amount does not need to be repaid. The money comes from the Thomas and Margaret Roddan Trust, a Scottish charity that helps students continue their studies when unforeseen financial difficulties threaten to disrupt their studies. The exact amount and conditions depend on which higher education institution is handling your case.

Who can apply

• Study level: You must be a Bachelor’s student who has completed at least one academic year, or a Master’s student on a taught programme, or a Master’s student working towards a higher academic degree as part of a research programme. First-year Bachelor’s students are not eligible to apply.
• University: You are studying at one of the universities that manage the fund, such as Abertay University or the University of Edinburgh.
• Where you live or study: At Abertay University, students usually either live in Scotland and study anywhere, or live elsewhere and study in Scotland. This means that students from England, Wales, Northern Ireland and abroad can also apply.
• Field of study: Open to all subjects.
• Financial need: You must provide evidence of an unexpected financial hardship, such as a housing crisis, an illness that prevents you from working, the breakdown of a relationship meaning you now have to pay the rent on your own, sudden care responsibilities, or an urgent repair to essential household appliances.
• What it will not cover: Costs that you could have budgeted for at the start of your degree, such as compulsory work placements, field trips or a high-performance laptop that you’ll need for your studies.

How to apply

The procedure varies depending on the university. At Abertay University, you apply directly via Abertay Connect and will need a letter of recommendation from a member of staff who is familiar with your circumstances. The application deadline for the 2025/26 round is 31 May. At the University of Edinburgh, you cannot apply directly. The university selects recipients from among the students who have applied for its own funding scheme.

How realistic are your chances?

This is emergency financial assistance, not a merit-based scholarship; therefore, it is not your grades that matter, but rather a genuine, unexpected emergency that you can provide evidence of. If your situation clearly matches the examples given and you can name a member of staff who is familiar with your circumstances, your chances are good. A clear and honest account of your situation is more important than anything else.