The School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences (SPCLS) at the University of Reading is happy to announce the Centenary Bursary 2026, established to support students from under-represented backgrounds in pursuing postgraduate study in psychology.
The University of Reading was established in 1892 as an extension college of the University of Oxford, offering higher education opportunities in the town of Reading. It gained its Royal Charter in 1926, becoming an independent university. Over the years, it has grown into a well-respected institution known for its research, teaching excellence, and strong focus on subjects like agriculture, business, and environmental science.
Table of Briefs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | SPCLS Centenary Bursary |
| Provider | School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading |
| Level | Master’s Postgraduate |
| Value | £2,000 fee reduction + £2,000 bursary 2 awards available |
| Eligible Courses | MSc Psychology Conversion, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, Language Sciences, Research Methods |
| Deadline | 17 July 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online bursary application form |
| Target Group | Under-represented and eligible home-fee students |
Background
The SPCLS Centenary Bursary has been developed as part of the University of Reading’s commitment to widening participation in higher education. The initiative specifically supports students entering postgraduate study in psychology who come from backgrounds that are traditionally under-represented in academia.
Working closely with diversity and inclusion advisors and student communities, SPCLS has created this bursary to ensure that financial constraints and social barriers do not prevent talented students from progressing to master’s-level education.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the SPCLS Centenary Bursary, applicants must meet all core conditions and at least one additional widening participation criterion.
Core Requirements
- Must have an offer of admission for a self-funded SPCLS master’s programme
- Must not already hold a master’s degree or higher qualification
- Must be eligible for home fee status
- Students using a postgraduate master’s loan (SLC) are still considered self-funded
Additional Eligibility At least ONE required
Applicants must belong to one of the following categories:
- Disability Equality Act 2010 definition
- Evidence required: doctor’s note or official documentation
- Minority ethnic background
- Self-declaration required in application form
- Low participation or disadvantaged area background
- POLAR4/TUNDRA quintile 1 or 2 OR IMD quintile 1 or 2
- Evidence: proof of address and residency duration
- Care experienced local authority care
- Minimum 3 months in care since age 14
- Evidence required: authority details, age period, duration
Benefits
- Two scholarships available annually
- Each award includes:
- £2,000 tuition fee reduction
- £2,000 cash bursary
- Applicable only for selected SPCLS master’s programmes
- Non-transferable and subject to eligibility verification
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Receive an Offer
- You must first secure admission to an eligible master’s programme at the University of Reading.
- Complete the Bursary Form
- Fill out the official SPCLS Centenary Bursary application form available online.
- Submit Supporting Evidence
- Provide documentation for your eligibility category disability, postcode, care status, etc.
- Write Supporting Statements
Applicants must explain:- Why the University of Reading is the right place to study
- Your academic and personal journey
- Challenges you have overcome
- How the bursary will impact your future career
- Assessment by Panel
- Applications are reviewed by a panel of three SPCLS members
- Selection is based on eligibility and quality of written responses
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 17 July 2026.
Conclusion
The SPCLS Centenary Bursary is a valuable opportunity for students from under-represented backgrounds to pursue advanced studies in psychology at a prestigious UK institution. With financial support and inclusive selection criteria, it opens doors for talented individuals who may otherwise face barriers to postgraduate education.