The University of Bristol is excited to announce the Master’s Scholarship for the academic year 2026/2027. This scholarship is offered to support high-achieving home students from widening participation backgrounds who wish to undertake a taught postgraduate programme MA, MSc, LLM or MRes. Through this initiative, the University of Bristol reaffirms its commitment to widening access to postgraduate education by providing financial assistance to eligible external applicants commencing their studies in autumn 2026.
The University of Bristol was founded in 1876 as University College Bristol and received its Royal Charter in 1909. It has grown into a leading UK university known for strong teaching and research, and is a member of the Russell Group, attracting students from around the world.
Table of Briefs
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Bristol Master’s Scholarship |
| University | University of Bristol |
| Level of Study | Taught Postgraduate MA, MSc, LLM, MRes |
| Award Amount | £2,000 |
| Academic Year | 2026/2027 |
| Eligible Students | Home students external applicants |
| Application Deadline | 29 May 2026 |
Background
The Bristol Master’s Scholarship was introduced by the University of Bristol to support home students from widening participation backgrounds who may face financial barriers to postgraduate study. By offering targeted financial assistance, the scholarship aims to promote equal access to taught master’s programmes and encourage talented students to progress into higher-level education and future career opportunities at one of the UK’s leading universities.
Eligibility Criteria
You can apply for the Bristol Master’s Scholarship if you:
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Have applied to a full-time master’s programme MA, MSc, LLM or MRes at the University of Bristol starting autumn 2026
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Are eligible for home tuition fees
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Have achieved or are predicted to achieve a 2:1 undergraduate degree
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Meet one or more widening participation criteria set by the University
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Are an external applicant not a University of Bristol graduate
Before the scholarship is confirmed, you must:
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Hold an unconditional offer to study
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Have achieved a 2:1 or higher undergraduate degree
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Meet any additional programme-specific conditions
Benefits
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Value: £2,000 per student
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Payment Method: Paid directly to the student in two instalments
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Duration:
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One-year full-time course – applies to the full year
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Two-year full-time course – applies to year one only
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Part-time course – applies to one year only
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The scholarship supports first-year study only, regardless of course length.
Application Process
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Apply for your master’s course MA, MSc, LLM or MRes at the University of Bristol for autumn 2026
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Wait until applications open for the scholarship
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Complete the online scholarship application form
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Submit your application before the deadline
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 29 May 2026.
Conclusion
The Bristol Master’s Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for students from underrepresented backgrounds to access postgraduate education at a leading UK university. If you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare early, apply confidently, and use this funding to invest in your academic and professional future.