The University of Birmingham is proud to announce the Gateway to Work Experience Bursary, a financial support initiative designed to help under-represented undergraduate students access valuable work experience opportunities across the United Kingdom. The bursary provides funding of up to £1,000 to assist students with essential costs such as travel, accommodation, and professional clothing required for low-paid or unpaid placements.
The University of Birmingham was founded in 1900, becoming one of the first civic or “red brick” universities in the United Kingdom. It grew from the earlier Mason Science College, established by industrialist and philanthropist Josiah Mason in 1875. Located in Birmingham, the university was created to provide practical education in science, engineering, and medicine to support the region’s growing industries. Over time, it expanded into a leading research university with a global reputation for academic excellence.
Table of Briefs
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Gateway to Work Experience Bursary |
| Provider | University of Birmingham |
| Study Level | Undergraduate |
| Qualification Level | Bachelor’s |
| Award Value | Up to £1,000 |
| Application Deadline | 15 June 2026 |
| Eligible Placement Period | October 2025 – August 2026 |
| Study Campuses | University of Birmingham Edgbaston Campus and University of Birmingham Selly Oak Campus |
| Eligible Nationalities | Open to all nationalities |
Background
The Gateway to Work Experience Bursary was created to support undergraduate students from under-represented backgrounds in gaining professional exposure. Many work placements and career insight events offer limited or no pay, which can make them inaccessible to students who cannot afford travel, accommodation, or professional attire.
Eligibility Criteria
Students must meet specific eligibility requirements to apply for the bursary.
Eligible applicants include:
Birmingham Scholars, defined as students who are:
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Participants in Pathways to Birmingham (P2B) programmes, including:
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Access to Birmingham
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Routes to the Professions
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National Access Summer School
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Students with a Realising Opportunities offer
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Students receiving a Sanctuary Scholarship
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Care experienced students or care leavers
Applicants may also qualify if they:
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Have a home address in an IMD Quintile 1 area indices of multiple deprivation, lowest 20%.
The bursary particularly encourages applications from students with little or no prior work experience.
Benefits
The Gateway to Work Experience Bursary provides financial assistance to students who have secured a low-paid or unpaid work placement or career insight event within the UK.
Funding coverage may include:
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Travel costs related to the work experience placement
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Accommodation expenses depending on placement location
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Professional clothing such as formal wear if required
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Other reasonable expenses supported by evidence
Maximum funding: Up to £1,000 per student.
The bursary applies to work experience placements or career events taking place between October 2025 and August 2026 within the United Kingdom.
Application Process
Students interested in the bursary must follow the official application process provided by the University of Birmingham.
Steps to Apply
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Secure a work experience placement or career insight event in the UK.
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Ensure the placement is low-paid or unpaid and takes place within the eligible period.
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Visit the official Gateway to Work Experience Bursary webpage.
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Complete the online application form.
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Provide required documentation, such as:
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Evidence of the placement or event
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Estimated costs travel, accommodation, clothing
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Submit the application before the deadline.
For questions or assistance, students can contact the Careers Network bursaries team via email: workexperience@contact.bham.ac.uk
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 15 June 2026
Conclusion
If you are an eligible undergraduate student at the University of Birmingham and have secured an unpaid or low-paid placement, this bursary could significantly reduce the financial burden associated with gaining professional experience. Apply early and prepare strong supporting documentation to maximise your chances of receiving funding.