The University of Birmingham is delighted to announce the Enhanced Chamberlain Award to support undergraduate students who have previously been in local authority care. This scholarship provides valuable financial assistance either through an accommodation fee waiver or a cash bursary, helping eligible students manage their living expenses while pursuing a bachelor’s degree. The award is specifically designed to encourage care leavers to access higher education and successfully complete their studies at the university.
The University of Birmingham was founded in 1900 and is one of the United Kingdom’s leading research universities. It grew out of Mason Science College, which was established in 1875 by philanthropist Sir Josiah Mason. The university became the first civic or “red brick” university in England to receive its own royal charter. Since then, it has developed into a globally recognised institution known for its research, teaching excellence, and large campus in Birmingham.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Enhanced Chamberlain Award |
| Provider | University of Birmingham |
| Study Level | Undergraduate |
| Qualification Level | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Award Value | Accommodation fee waiver up to £9,848 or £3,000 cash bursary |
| Application Deadline | Open |
| Campus | Birmingham (Edgbaston) and Birmingham (Selly Oak) |
| Eligible Students | Home students who are Care Leavers |
| Payment Structure | Cash bursary paid in two instalments £1,500 in January and £1,500 in May |
Background
The Enhanced Chamberlain Award is offered by the University of Birmingham to support students who have experienced time in local authority care before entering higher education. The award reflects the university’s commitment to widening participation and ensuring that students from care backgrounds have equal opportunities to succeed at university.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Enhanced Chamberlain Award, applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Must be a Home student.
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Must be enrolled in an undergraduate (Bachelor’s) programme at the university.
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Must qualify as a Care Leaver under the university’s definition.
Definition of a Care Leaver
A Care Leaver is defined as:
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A young person over the age of 16
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Who has been in the care of a local authority or Health & Social Care Trust
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For at least 13 weeks since the age of 14
Additional Notes
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Students who were later adopted are normally not eligible.
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If a student has been in care but does not fully meet the definition, the university may still review the application on a case-by-case basis.
Benefits
The Enhanced Chamberlain Award offers flexible financial support depending on a student’s accommodation arrangements:
1. Accommodation Fee Waiver
Students who choose to live in university-owned accommodation may receive an accommodation fee waiver worth up to £9,848.
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This represents the maximum accommodation support available under the award.
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If the chosen accommodation costs more than this amount, students must cover the difference themselves.
2. Cash Bursary Option
Students who choose to live off campus, in partner accommodation, or already receive housing support may instead receive a £3,000 cash bursary.
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Paid in two instalments:
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£1,500 in January
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£1,500 in May
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Students can confirm or change their preferred support option each academic year, making the award adaptable to changing living arrangements.
Application Process
Students who believe they meet the eligibility requirements must complete the online application form provided by the university.
Steps to Apply
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Visit the official scholarship webpage of the university.
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Complete the online application form.
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Upload the required supporting evidence confirming care history.
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Submit the application.
Required Supporting Evidence
Applicants must attach written confirmation from a Social Worker or Key Worker stating:
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The dates they were in the care of the local authority or trust.
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Confirmation that they qualify as a Care Leaver.
This evidence is only required once, even if the award continues across multiple years.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: Open
Conclusion
The Enhanced Chamberlain Award reflects the commitment of the University of Birmingham to supporting students from care backgrounds. By offering either substantial accommodation support or a financial bursary, the award helps care leavers transition smoothly into university life and focus on their academic and personal development.