Like many people considering postgraduate study, one of my biggest concerns was funding. I was fortunate enough to have the support of my parents in addition to taking out a loan, but what made things so much easier was being awarded BU’s Academic Scholarship.
When I first started researching Master’s degrees in the UK, the possibility of getting a scholarship wasn’t something I even considered. But when I set my sights on Bournemouth and heard about the Academic Scholarship, it suddenly seemed like something I had a realistic chance of achieving.
The scholarship rewards high academic achievements at undergraduate level. Applicants who have received the equivalent of an upper second-class honours degree or above are automatically awarded the scholarship. It comes in the form of a £2,000 tuition fee reduction, which can make a huge difference and help ease some of those funding concerns.
The best part is that you don’t have to apply and numbers are unlimited; if you get the grades, you get the scholarship. It really is as simple as that! If you’re an international student there’s a slightly different scholarship. It’s really easy to find out how your grades will be calculated – just check your country in the list to see the criteria on this webpage.
I was half-way through the final year of my Bachelor’s degree when I applied for my MA, and with just my thesis left to do, I knew I was on track for a 2:1. Knowing I didn’t have to worry about another application process meant that I was able to focus on my work and try to make sure I met the criteria. When I received my final grades in the summer, I was delighted to have my Academic Scholarship confirmed by BU.
With so many other costs to consider, including accommodation and everyday living, receiving the scholarship has made life a little bit easier. I also feel really proud that all the hard work over the past three years has paid off. I think it’s fantastic that BU recognises things like this and rewards students for the work they put in to get here.
If you have any worries about the cost of studying a postgraduate degree, keep the Academic Scholarship in mind. It’s a great thing to have and can make a significant difference when it comes to paying your fees.
By Sarah Stacey
