The social work bursary is a grant that does not have to be paid back. The amount you get depends on: where you study whether you study full or part-time the cost of your tuition How it’s paid Social work bursaries are paid in 3 instalments, one each term. If you’re disabled You may be able to get extra help (called ‘Disabled Students Allowances’) if you’re disabled and a postgraduate student .

Social work bursaries are available to eligible social work students who: do not get funding from their employer are studying an approved undergraduate or postgraduate course in social work do not already have a higher education social work qualification Your university or college will tell you if your course qualifies. You’re not eligible for a bursary if you’re studying on an employment-based course including direct Open University courses. If you’re not eligible for a social work bursary, you may still be eligible for student finance .

To apply online, you need to create a MyFunding account . You must reapply for your bursary every academic year. When to apply If your academic year starts from 1 September to 31 December 2024, you can apply from 1 March 2024. You’ll need to submit your application by 31 October 2024. If your academic year starts on or after 1 January 2025, you can apply from 1 November 2024. You’ll need to submit your application by 23 February 2025. If your academic year starts on or after 1 March 2025, you can apply from 1 November 2024. You’ll need to submit your application by 22 March 2025. Evidence needed You may need to prove your identity by sending a digital copy or photocopy of both of the following: your birth certificate your passport (which must be valid)

Social work bursaries

Overview

If you’re training for social work, you may get a bursary.

Social work bursaries:

help with living costs
do not have to be paid back
are for undergraduates in year 2 and year 3
are for postgraduates in year 1 and year 2

If you’re an undergraduate student, you may be able to get a student loan to cover tuition fees and to help with living costs in year 1.

If you’re a postgraduate student, your bursary may also cover tuition fees.

There are different ways to fund social work studies if you live in:

Scotland - find out more from Student Awards Agency Scotland
Wales - find out more from Social Care Wales
Northern Ireland - find out more from the Northern Ireland Social Care Council

View a printable version of the whole guide

Social work bursaries

Overview

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Social work bursaries

Overview

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