The University of Reading, in partnership with Santander Universities, is proud to announce the £5,000 Santander Scholarship for the academic year 2025/2026. This scholarship is designed to provide financial support to eligible students, helping them manage education-related costs and continue their studies with confidence. Priority consideration will be given to students who are Care Experienced or estranged from their families.
The University of Reading was founded in 1892 as an extension college of the University of Oxford and became an independent university in 1926. Over time, it has grown into a leading UK institution known for strong teaching and research, particularly in areas such as agriculture, business, climate science, and the humanities. Today, the University of Reading welcomes students from around the world and is recognised for its high academic standards and vibrant campus life.
Table of Briefs
| Scholarship Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Santander Scholarship |
| Award Value | £5,000 |
| Number of Awards | 2 |
| Academic Year | 2025/2026 |
| Eligible Institutions | University of Reading & Henley Business School |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate & Postgraduate |
| Application Deadline | 19 February 2026 |
| Santander Customer Required | No |
Background
The £5,000 Santander Scholarship is part of Santander Universities’ ongoing commitment to widening access to higher education and supporting student success across the UK. In partnership with the University of Reading and Henley Business School, the scholarship aims to reduce financial barriers that may prevent students from fully engaging in their studies.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the £5,000 Santander Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
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Be a current full-time student at the University of Reading or Henley Business School
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Qualify for Home Fee Status
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Be enrolled in any year of undergraduate or postgraduate study during the 2025/26 academic year
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Be 18 years or older
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Be a UK resident
Priority will be given to students who are:
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Care Experienced including foster care, residential care, kinship care, local authority care, or supervised care at home, or
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Estranged from their families
Importantly, you do not need to be a Santander customer to apply.
Benefits
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Value: £5,000 paid to support education-related costs
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Purpose: To reduce financial pressure and help students focus on academic success and career development
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Flexibility: Funds can be used for tuition fees, accommodation, books, learning resources, or employability activities
Application Process
Applying for the Santander Scholarship is straightforward and fully online:
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Register for free on the Santander Open Academy platform
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Verify your email address after registration
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Log in and click “Get Started”
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Complete the online application form
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Answer the online assessment questions, which evaluate your skills and abilities
Make sure all responses are honest, clear, and thoughtfully written.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 19 February 2026.
Conclusion
The £5,000 Santander Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for students at the University of Reading and Henley Business School to gain meaningful financial support during the 2025/2026 academic year. Beyond financial relief, it reflects Santander’s commitment to widening participation and supporting students who face additional barriers to higher education.