LGBTQ+ Scholarships for LGBTQ+ Students in the UK

There are scholarships and grants available in the UK designed to support LGBTQ+ students financially and empower them to succeed academically.

Why LGBTQ+ Scholarships Matter

For many LGBTQ+ students, the path to university can be full of extra hurdles. These students may face discrimination, lack of family support, or financial instability.

Scholarships tailored specifically for the LGBTQ+ community help to provide a sense of belonging, reduce financial stress, and encourage personal and academic growth.

Popular LGBTQ+ Scholarships in the UK

Several organizations offer scholarships to LGBTQ+ students across the UK. Below are some well-known options:

1. National Student Pride & EY Scholarship

National Student Pride, in partnership with EY (Ernst & Young), offers a scholarship to LGBTQ+ students in the UK. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also connects students with mentoring opportunities and networking events in the business sector.

• Eligibility: Open to LGBTQ+ students attending university in the UK.
• Benefits: £2,500 in funding, mentoring, and access to networking events.
• Apply for the National Student Pride & EY Scholarship

2. The LGBTQ+ Undergraduate Scholarship by The University of Sussex

The University of Sussex offers an undergraduate scholarship specifically for LGBTQ+ students, aiming to create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

• Eligibility: Open to LGBTQ+ students applying to any undergraduate program at the University of Sussex.
• Benefits: £5,000 for the first year of study.
• Learn more about the LGBTQ+ Undergraduate Scholarship

3. Stonewall Bursary

Stonewall is one of the UK’s leading LGBTQ+ rights organizations, and they offer bursaries to LGBTQ+ students who demonstrate financial need.

• Eligibility: Available to LGBTQ+ students facing financial difficulties.
• Benefits: Varies depending on individual circumstances, with the goal of easing financial pressure.
• Explore Stonewall Bursary Opportunities

4. Transgender and Non-Binary Scholarships (University of Edinburgh)

The University of Edinburgh offers specific financial aid for transgender and non-binary students, recognizing the unique challenges these students may face.

• Eligibility: Open to transgender and non-binary students enrolled in or accepted to a UK university.
• Benefits: Financial assistance tailored to individual needs.
• Find more details here

5. The Mark Ashton Trust Bursary

This bursary is offered in honor of Mark Ashton, an LGBTQ+ rights activist. It supports LGBTQ+ students pursuing higher education who need financial assistance.

• Eligibility: LGBTQ+ students who have demonstrated commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and community work.
• Benefits: Varies based on financial need.
• Apply for the Mark Ashton Trust Bursary

6. GiveOut Queer Youth Grants

GiveOut provides grants for LGBTQ+ youth, including scholarships for students who are engaged in activism and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.

• Eligibility: LGBTQ+ students actively involved in LGBTQ+ advocacy or rights work.
• Benefits: Grant amounts vary based on the level of activism and need.
• Learn more about GiveOut Queer Youth Grants

7. University of Birmingham LGBTQ+ Scholarships

The University of Birmingham offers several scholarships and financial aid programs specifically for LGBTQ+ students, fostering an inclusive academic environment.

• Eligibility: LGBTQ+ students enrolled or planning to enroll at the University of Birmingham.
• Benefits: Financial assistance that varies depending on the program.
• University of Birmingham LGBTQ+ Scholarships

Tips to Apply for LGBTQ+ Scholarships

Applying for scholarships often involves more than just submitting an application form. Here are a few tips to strengthen your application:

1. Highlight Your Identity and Experiences: Many LGBTQ+ scholarships focus on students’ personal experiences and how they’ve overcome challenges related to their identity. Be open about your story and how it has shaped you.
2. Showcase Your Academic Achievements: While scholarships often focus on personal identity, academic performance is still important. Highlight your grades, projects, and any extracurricular activities that demonstrate your dedication.
3. Get Involved in LGBTQ+ Advocacy: If you’ve participated in LGBTQ+ advocacy or related extracurricular activities, be sure to mention it in your application. This shows your commitment to the community and can make your application stand out.
4. Prepare Letters of Recommendation: Many scholarships require letters of recommendation. Ask teachers, mentors, or employers who know your strengths and experiences to write positive recommendations on your behalf.