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Posted Aug. 13, 2025

Postgraduate bursaries and scholarships – what’s the difference?

Postgraduate study is notoriously expensive, with the price of tuition fees, study materials, living costs and other expenses all adding up. By accessing the funding and finance that you are entitled to or eligible for however, you can minimise the financial pressure, support your academic success, make the most of your chosen student city, and ultimately level the playing field.

So many funding options make postgraduate study accessible to more than just the privileged few, with those from low income backgrounds, underrepresented groups and countries with limited opportunities able to reach their full potential. Alongside government funding, private postgraduate loans, personal savings and part-time work, scholarships and bursaries can be accessed to fund your PG studies. Read on to discover more…

What are postgraduate scholarships and bursaries?

Bursaries and scholarships are types of financial support for undergraduate and postgraduate study. Unlike private loans, bursaries, grants and scholarships don’t have to be repaid, and this could make a big difference to your postgraduate experience.

Getting the right funding via avenues like bursaries, grants and scholarships is crucial for almost every postgraduate student, whether travelling from near or far to study a postgrad program. The correct funding does so much more than pay the bills to keep your studies on track; it can help you succeed academically, professionally and personally.

How do bursaries and scholarships differ?

While mentioned in the same breath and sharing a few similarities, these two postgraduate funding options have some key differences. The criteria and eligibility of these awards varies greatly, and clearly defines the role of a bursary and a scholarship. A scholarship for instance is based on an applicant’s academic results so far or merit, with success often going hand-in-hand with high grades or similar achievements.

The criteria for a bursary is different, with your financial or personal circumstances the area of focus for those reviewing your application. With this in mind, bursaries are generally less competitive and open to a greater number of individuals.

The main point of a bursary is to provide better access to education with minimal financial hardship, a fact that means a large proportion of bursaries are funded by government or public bodies. In comparison, scholarships are typically funded by universities, charities or private sponsors, with an aim to reward excellence and fuel potential. Many scholarships focus on fully or partially covering tuition fees as a result.

What can I expect from the application process?

This isn’t where the differences end either. The application process is another aspect that sets bursaries and scholarships apart. We’ll let UCAS explain more about what to expect when applying for a scholarship or bursary:

“Over 25% of students we spoke to, who received a scholarship or bursary, were eligible based simply on their grades*. Alternatively, you might have to complete an online application… At the other end of the scale, more competitive or specific awards may demand more from you, including multiple stages – e.g. writing a short essay, attending an interview, presenting a piece of work, or performing an audition.”

Where can I find postgraduate scholarships and bursaries?

Right here of course! In fact, five lucky prospective students could get their hands on our Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries, worth £10,000 in total! Find out more about how to apply for the Postgrad Solution Study Bursary for further details.

You can also browse the university scholarships available for postgraduate students to get more financial help with postgrad funding.

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