Bursaries and scholarships for underrepresented groups – applications now open

We're committed to ensuring that every talented student can access and succeed at Manchester, regardless of their background. At the heart of our Challenge accepted campaign is student inclusion and success, driving philanthropic investment (both big and small) to break down barriers to education and ensure students can both get here in the first place, and thrive once they do. Some of the financial support opening today has been generously funded by donors and alumni.  

All colleagues are asked to please share these opportunities with prospective students, offer holders and relevant internal and external contacts: 

Bursaries and scholarships 

Accommodation Bursary 

• £2,050 discount towards the cost of university accommodation at eligible halls of residence 

• 150 available for UK students from low-income backgrounds starting an UG degree in September 2026 

• Applications close Monday 6 July, 11.59pm 

Sadler Bursary  

• £10,000 per year 

• 12 available for care-experienced students starting an UG degree in September 2026 

• Applications close Sunday 26 April, 11.59pm  

Bason Family Bursary and the Cowrie Foundation Scholarship 

• Both provide a full tuition waiver, plus £6,000 maintenance bursary per year 

• Three bursaries and two scholarships available for UK, black heritage students starting an undergraduate degree in September 2026 

• Applications close Sunday 26 April, 11.59pm 

Article 26 Scholarship 

• Tuition fee waiver, £5,000 maintenance bursary and a free place in halls of residence, amongst other support to help a smooth transition 

• 5 available for sanctuary seekers who cannot access student finance, starting an undergraduate degree in September 2026 

• Applications close Monday 13 April.

Further information 

• Please contact Abbie Hyde if you have any questions about the opportunities above 

• Find out more about our Challenge accepted campaign and how you can get involved as a colleague; whether that’s through using your three volunteering days to support a local cause, or donating a few pennies off your paycheck each month with our Purple Pennies scheme.