The University of Hull, in collaboration with The Cowrie Foundation, is excited to announce the availability of the Cowrie Foundation Scholarship for the academic year 2025/2026. This prestigious award is designed to support talented undergraduate students of Black African and Caribbean heritage from socio-economically under-represented backgrounds. The scholarship provides full coverage of home UK tuition fees and an annual maintenance stipend of £8,000 for the duration of the recipient’s undergraduate programme, subject to satisfactory academic progress.
The University of Hull was founded in 1927 as University College Hull and became an independent university in 1954. Located in East Yorkshire, it has grown from a small college into a respected institution known for research, innovation, and strong community links. Over the years, the University has built a reputation for excellence in teaching and pioneering work in areas such as social justice, environmental sustainability, and healthcare, while welcoming students from across the UK and around the world.
Table of Briefs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Provider | University of Hull & Cowrie Scholarship Foundation |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate (Year 0 or Year 1 entry) |
| Eligibility | Black African/Caribbean heritage, UK resident, household income under £25,000 |
| Award | Full tuition fee coverage + £8,000 annual maintenance stipend |
| Duration | Full length of the degree (subject to progression) |
| Application Requirement | Personal statement (600–900 words), proof of eligibility |
| Application Deadline | 31 August 2025. |
| Decision-Making Body | University of Hull panel & Cowrie Scholarship Foundation |
Background
The Cowrie Scholarship Foundation (CSF) was established with a powerful mission: to remove financial barriers and create life-changing opportunities for Black British students from under-represented socio-economic backgrounds. The Foundation aims to fund 100 students over the next decade, offering them a chance to access quality higher education without the burden of tuition fees and financial insecurity.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must:
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Belong to one of the following ethnic groups:
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Black or Black British – Caribbean
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Black or Black British – African
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Mixed – White and Black Caribbean
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Mixed – White and Black African
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Other Black background
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Hold a firm offer of admission to Year 0 or Year 1 of a full-time undergraduate programme at the University of Hull for the 2025/26 academic year.
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Be pursuing their first undergraduate degree (no previous higher-level qualifications).
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Have a household income of £25,000 or less.
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Be classified as a ‘home’ fee status student.
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Apply for UK government income-assessed financial support via their regional student funding authority.
Benefits
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Covers full tuition fees (for the entire duration of the undergraduate degree).
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Annual stipend of £8,000 to support living expenses.
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Renewable each year based on satisfactory academic progress.
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Designed to empower under-represented students and encourage academic and community impact.
Application Process
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Confirm Offer: Secure a firm offer for an undergraduate course at the University of Hull (starting 2025/26).
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Prepare Personal Statement (600–900 words) covering:
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Why the scholarship is beneficial to your studies.
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How it will help you achieve academic goals.
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How your education will benefit your community/society.
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Your proudest achievements (academic, personal, or overcoming challenges).
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Submit Application: Apply through the University of Hull’s online portal.
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Assessment: A University panel shortlists applications, which are then reviewed by the Cowrie Foundation for the final decision.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 31 August 2025.
Conclusion
The Cowrie Foundation Scholarship at the University of Hull represents much more than financial aid it is an opportunity to break barriers, create lasting change, and inspire future generations. If you meet the criteria, this scholarship could be your pathway to higher education, personal growth, and a brighter future.