Letter to Apply for Degree Funding

The cost of education has long been a hot topic. Tuition fees have risen, and there is concern that this will put some young people off going to university.

If you are concerned about the cost of education, you should remember that there is some funding available, separate from that offered by the government. The funding you apply for will depend on the course you are doing and your own personal circumstances – but there are certain principles that remain consistent regardless of the type of funding you choose.

Can’t I get a Student Loan?

For the vast majority of students, university tuition is free at the point of entry. This means that you do not have to pay your course fees up front – which is important, as most prospective students would simply be unable to find that much money in one go.

Instead, students take out a series of loans to cover both their course fees and their living costs. These are known as the Tuition Fee Loan and the Maintenance Loan. Depending on your circumstances you might also qualify for a Maintenance Grant. The loans are paid back after you complete your course (or after you leave university if you do not complete your course), and once you are earning above a certain amount.

Sadly, though, the cost of living is rising at a rate that is rather more dramatic than that at which the loans are increasing. This means that students are increasingly forced to seek alternative means of financing their study, in addition to the money they receive in loans.

Where can I Look for Funding?

The number of potential sources of funding for your degree is almost limitless. Some students end up having their degrees funded by employers, in exchange for a guarantee that they will work for that employer for a certain number of years after graduation. But these arrangements tend to be limited to specific industries and sectors.

A more common form of funding is scholarships. There is a vast range of scholarship types on offer, with many universities operating their own schemes. Similarly, scholarships are also provided by charitable organisations or trusts.

Scholarships tend either to be targeted at those with particularly good academic records or prospects, or those from specific backgrounds. For example, some scholarships might be established with the intention of helping those from lower-income families enter higher education.

The following is a sample letter applying for an academic scholarship, provided by a charitable organisation.

Example Letter

Your Name
Anytown
Postcode

Dear [Name]

I am writing to express my interest in applying for the annual Anyscholarship.

I have been offered a place to study Anysubject at Anyuniversity, beginning in September. The university was my first choice, and I was given an unconditional offer.

My academic record has been very strong throughout my career in education. I gained 13 GCSEs; of those 10 were at A level and the remaining three at A. I also gained four A Levels, all at A grade.

I am confident that I would make a valuable contribution to the life of Anyuniversity. In addition to my academic work I intend to become involved with a range of extra-curricular activities and organisations – particularly those concerning journalism. I have a strong interest in both writing and current affairs, and would like to contribute to the student newspaper and, ultimately, run for student election.

I understand that awards are made under the scholarship system based on academic achievements. I have therefore attached references from two of my sixth form tutors, along with mark breakdowns for my GCSEs and A Levels. Please do let me know if you require any more supporting information.

With thanks for your time, and best wishes,

[Signature]

Still Confused?

Student finance can be a difficult area. If you are in any doubt about what you are entitled to or where to look for support, you should speak to your careers advisor or visit your local Connexions office.