Aston University is pleased to announce the Forward Scholarship for the academic year 2025/2026. This scholarship, valued at £5,000, is available to new full-time UK undergraduate students from households with an annual income of £25,000 or below.
Aston University, located in Birmingham, England, was founded in 1895 as the Birmingham Municipal Technical School. It became the College of Advanced Technology in 1956 and gained university status in 1966. Known for its strong focus on employability, innovation, and practical learning, Aston has built a reputation for its close links with industry and its commitment to producing highly skilled graduates. Today, it is recognised for its strengths in business, engineering, health sciences, and social sciences.
Table of Briefs
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Aston Forward Scholarship |
| Provider | Aston University |
| Scholarship Amount | £5,000 (paid in instalments) |
| Application Period | 4 October 2025 |
| Eligible Applicants | New UK full-time undergraduate students from households earning ≤ £25,000 |
| Application Platform | MAP (My Aston Portal) |
| Additional Support | Mentoring, enrichment programme, networking, and entrepreneurial advice |
Background
The Aston Forward Scholarship is more than a financial grant—it’s a recognition of courage, ambition, and the desire to build a better world. Established with support from alumni, friends, and commercial partners of Aston University, the scholarship helps level the playing field for students who may face financial or social disadvantages. It prioritises students whose life experiences, community contributions, and aspirations reflect determination and potential far beyond grades alone.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Aston Forward Scholarship, students must meet all the following:
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Start Date: Must begin a new full-time undergraduate degree at Aston between September 2025 and August 2026.
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Residency Status: Must be a home fee-paying student and eligible for UK government student support.
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Household Income: Assessed annual income of £25,000 or less.
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Income Assessment: Must apply for income assessment via Student Finance England, Wales, Northern Ireland, or SAAS (Scotland). Final confirmation must be completed by 14 November 2025.
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Not Sponsored: Cannot be receiving full fee sponsorship from a third party (e.g. government, employer, or business).
Benefits
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Amount: £5,000 awarded in instalments during your course.
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Nature: Non-repayable; does not affect tuition/maintenance loans.
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Additional Benefits:
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1:1 support and mentoring
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Enrichment Programme
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Career development and networking
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Entrepreneurial guidance
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Application Process
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Receive a conditional or confirmed offer to study at Aston University.
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Log in to MAP (My Aston Portal) between 19 August and 4 October 2025.
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Complete the scholarship application, including essay questions highlighting:
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Your personal story and barriers faced
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Career ambitions or business ideas
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Community involvement
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How the scholarship would impact your university journey
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Undertake a financial assessment with Student Finance to verify income.
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Ensure income assessment is finalised by 14 November 2025.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 4 October 2025.
Conclusion
The Aston Forward Scholarship is a unique opportunity for students with strong ambitions and powerful stories. If you’ve faced challenges, have big dreams, or are passionate about making a difference, this scholarship could be the key to unlocking your potential at one of the UK’s most dynamic universities.