Care-Experienced Student Bursary

In recognition of the additional challenges and historically poor outcomes of Care-Experienced people, the Care Experienced Student Bursary was introduced by the Scottish Government in 2017 for full-time students up to the age of 26 years old at the start of their course. The bursary is an annual, non-repayable award (currently £8,100) for students at college and university. 

From the 2020–21 academic year, the Care-Experienced Student Bursary will be paid to all students with care experience, regardless of age. Students on higher education courses apply to the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) for this funding.

Care-Experienced students who are under 26 and studying full-time will continue to be eligible to receive additional funding such as the SAAS Care-Experienced Accommodation Grant. There may also be financial support available from the student’s local authority.

While part-time students are not eligible for the bursary and accommodation grant, many universities have discretionary funds that can help with expenses such as laptops and childcare.