Birkbeck University of London is happy to announce the Cowrie Foundation Scholarship for the academic year 2026–2027, delivered in partnership with The Cowrie Scholarship Foundation. This prestigious undergraduate award is designed to support talented Black African and Caribbean Heritage students from socio-economically under-represented backgrounds.
Birkbeck University of London was founded in 1823 by Dr George Birkbeck to provide education to working people who could not study during the day. It began as the London Mechanics’ Institute and later became part of the University of London in 1920. Birkbeck is known for its evening study model, allowing students to combine work and education. Today, it is a respected public research university offering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in central London.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Cowrie Foundation Scholarship |
| Provider | The Cowrie Scholarship Foundation & Birkbeck, University of London |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Mode of Study | Full-time |
| Fee Status | Home students only |
| Value | Full tuition fees + up to £10,000 annual maintenance bursary |
| Number of Awards | Two |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
| Deadline | 31 May 2026 |
Background
The Cowrie Foundation Scholarship was established to address the persistent underrepresentation of Black African and Caribbean Heritage students in UK higher education, particularly those from lower-income households. Through a partnership between The Cowrie Scholarship Foundation and Birkbeck, University of London, the initiative aims to remove financial barriers and promote educational equity.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
1. Ethnicity Requirement
Applicants must identify as belonging to one of the following groups:
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Black or Black British Caribbean
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Black or Black British African
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Mixed White and Black Caribbean
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Mixed White and Black African
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Other Black background
2. Residency and Nationality
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Must be Black British
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Must be resident in the UK
3. Academic Requirements
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Must have firmly accepted an offer for a first undergraduate full-time degree programme at Birkbeck beginning September 2026
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Must be classified as a Home student
4. Financial Requirements
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Annual household income of £35,000 or less
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Must have applied for and received confirmation of full income-assessed financial support for 2026–2027 from:
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Student Finance England
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Student Finance Wales
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Student Finance Northern Ireland
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Student Awards Agency for Scotland
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5. Academic Progression
Continued funding each year depends on satisfactory academic progress.
Benefits
Successful scholars will receive:
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Full tuition fee coverage for the duration of their undergraduate degree excluding placement or study abroad years
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Annual maintenance bursary of up to £10,000
This financial package significantly reduces the need for part-time work and allows scholars to focus on academic excellence, career development, and community impact.
Application Process
Eligible offer holders must complete an online application form by 31 May 2026.
Personal Statement Maximum 700 Words
Your statement must address:
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Why the scholarship will benefit your studies
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How it will help you achieve your academic goals
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How your education will benefit your community and/or society
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Academic and personal achievements you are most proud of
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 31 May 2026.
Conclusion
The Cowrie Foundation Scholarship 2026 is a powerful opportunity for talented Black African and Caribbean Heritage students from under-represented backgrounds to pursue an undergraduate degree at Birkbeck, University of London without financial barriers. With full tuition coverage and a generous maintenance bursary of up to £10,000 per year, this scholarship allows students to focus on academic success, personal growth, and meaningful community impact.
Apply Now