Funding

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Funding from Educational Bodies and Charitable Trusts

One way to find extra funds is to apply to educational bodies and charitable trusts. There are thousands of these offering scholarships, fee support and hardship funds to students. Money is generally offered to students based on certain criteria, for example: an applicant's place of birth or their parents' occupation.

Where can I find them?

Although there are many funding bodies, competition is fierce so it is a good idea to apply to as many as you can. A bit of time and effort is going to be needed to research what is out there. There are many different places to look when researching funding bodies: ask your department if they know of any specific to your course; ask your parents if their employers offer financial assistance to offspring; try an internet search or do some research at the public library.

Try the following links:

Funderfinder - database of all bodies who provide student funding
Educational Grants Advisory Service - http://www.family-action.org.uk/section.aspx?id=1037
Charity Commission
Scholarship Search
Association of Charity Officers
The British Council has a link to a scholarship database for international students
Benevolence today - portal site raising awareness of benevolent funds.

Try the following publications:

•The Educational Grants Directory
•The Charities Digest
•The Grants Register
•Directory of Grant Making Trusts

How to apply

With each body check that you are eligible to apply before you do so so as not to waste time. When making an application to a trust make sure you follow the correct procedure. Most require a letter to be written but some have set application forms. Many scholarship applications require an essay to be written. Make sure you include all the evidence and information that is asked for. Generally you will need to include:

•Name, nationality, institution, level of study
•Details of spending and income - what funds you have already secured
•Reasons for hardship (e.g. funds fell through). Highlight whatever makes you special. What personal circumstances are causing you to find it especially hard financially?
•Where you have tried to get help from already (they will want to know you have already tried your institution for help)
•Academic reference - potential/achievements etc.
It is a good idea to write a little about yourself: hobbies; interests; voluntary work etc.

•It is very important to check the criteria for each trust and tailor your application to their requirements. Focus on the things they as an organisation find important. Consider what they believe in and what are they specifically looking for in applicants.