The Buckinghamshire New University is proud to announce the availability of the Thrive Bursary, a financial support award valued at £500, provided by the University to assist eligible UK students experiencing financial disadvantage. This bursary is designed to promote widening participation and enhance student success by supporting those from lower-income households and underrepresented communities.
Buckinghamshire New University was originally founded in 1891 as the School of Science and Art in High Wycombe. Over time, it expanded its courses and campuses, becoming Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College in 1999. In 2007, it was granted full university status and adopted its current name. Today, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and is known for its strong focus on employability and practical learning.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Award Name | Thrive Bursary |
| Award Amount | £500 |
| Student Type | UK Students |
| Funding Requirement | Must receive full tuition fee & maintenance loan |
| Income Threshold | Household income below £25,000 |
| Area-Based Eligibility | POLAR4 Quintiles 1 & 2 or IMD 40% most deprived |
| Application Windows | October, January & April intakes |
Background
The Thrive Bursary offers a £500 award to eligible UK students who are already receiving full Student Finance support tuition fee and maintenance loan. The bursary focuses on widening participation and supporting students from low-income households, low participation areas, or areas with high deprivation.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Thrive Bursary, you must:
1. Be a UK Student
You must be eligible for and receiving full Student Finance funding, including:
-
Tuition Fee Loan
-
Maintenance Loan
2. Meet At Least ONE of the Following Conditions:
A. Low Household Income
-
Combined household income of less than £25,000
-
Verified through Student Finance Maintenance Loan levels:
-
£10,500+ Outside London
-
£13,500+ Inside London
-
£8,750+ Living at Home
-
-
Excluding any grants
OR
B. Live in a Low Participation Postcode
-
Must fall under POLAR4 Quintiles 1 or 2
OR
C. Live in a High Deprivation Area
-
Located within the 40% most deprived areas
-
Measured using the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD)
-
Use Topic: Finance & Economy Map: Deprivation Indices IMD
Benefits
-
Award Amount: £500
-
Type: Non-repayable bursary
-
Purpose: Support students facing financial challenges
-
Payment: Typically paid directly to eligible students after approval
Although £500 may seem modest, it can significantly help cover:
-
Study materials
-
Travel costs
-
Living expenses
-
Emergency financial needs
Application Process
Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
-
Check your household income via Student Finance.
-
Confirm your postcode eligibility POLAR4 or IMD.
Step 2: Gather Documentation
You may need:
-
Student Finance award notification
-
Evidence of maintenance loan amount
-
Address/postcode confirmation
Step 3: Submit Application
-
Apply during the correct application window based on your course start date.
-
Ensure all information matches your Student Finance records.
Step 4: Await Decision
-
Applications are reviewed after the closing date.
-
Successful applicants are notified directly.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 27 March 2026.
Conclusion
The Thrive Bursary (£500) is an excellent opportunity for eligible UK students receiving full Student Finance support. If you meet the income or postcode criteria, I strongly recommend applying within the correct timeframe.