The Open University is proud to announce the Creative Writing Scholarship for the academic year 2026/2027. This initiative has been developed to promote inclusivity and widen participation in higher education by supporting students from Black backgrounds who wish to pursue the MA in Creative Writing programme.
The Open University was established in 1969 in the United Kingdom with the aim of making higher education accessible to everyone, regardless of background or location. It pioneered distance learning by using a mix of printed materials, television, and later online platforms to deliver courses. The university welcomed its first students in 1971 and has since become one of the largest universities in the UK, known for its flexible learning approach and commitment to widening participation in education.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Creative Writing Scholarship |
| Provider | The Open University |
| Course | MA in Creative Writing |
| Funding Type | Full tuition fee waiver |
| Number of Awards | 3 scholarships |
| Study Level | Postgraduate Master’s |
| Academic Year | 2026/2027 |
| Application Deadline | 29 July 2026 midday |
| Result Notification | By 14 August 2026 |
Background
The Creative Writing Scholarship at The Open University was established as part of the university’s broader commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in higher education. Recognising the underrepresentation of Black voices in academic and literary spaces, the scholarship aims to remove financial barriers and create meaningful opportunities for talented writers from Black backgrounds.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be ordinarily resident in the UK and eligible for UK tuition fees
- Identify as being from a Black background, including:
- Black African
- Black Caribbean
- Black Other
- Mixed White and Black Caribbean
- Mixed White and Black African
- Other mixed backgrounds including Black heritage
- Intend to study the MA in Creative Writing in the 2026/2027 academic year
- Have an annual personal income of £25,000 or less, or receive a qualifying UK benefit
- Meet the academic entry requirements for the MA programme
- Demonstrate a strong passion and prior experience in creative writing
Benefits
This scholarship fully covers tuition fees for the MA in Creative Writing, up to a total of 180 credits. It allows selected students to pursue postgraduate study without financial burden, enabling them to focus entirely on developing their writing skills and creative voice.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Download the scholarship application form and terms and conditions
- Carefully complete the application form
- Gather supporting documents proof of income, eligibility, writing experience, etc.
- Submit your application via email to the Student Fees team details provided in the form
Ensure all documents are accurate and submitted before the deadline.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 29 July 2026.
Conclusion
The Creative Writing Scholarship at The Open University is an exceptional opportunity for aspiring writers from Black backgrounds to pursue higher education without financial barriers. With limited seats available, a well-prepared and thoughtful application can make all the difference.