Donor funded scholarships and bursaries

Two students reading a book underneath a tree

Donor-funded scholarships and bursaries, supported by our alumni, friends and industry partners, help ease the financial pressures of university life. Alongside vital funding, they provide opportunities for networking, mentoring and personal development. More than a financial award, they recognise potential and demonstrate our belief in our students' ability to succeed.

The difference you can make

Open day bunting hanging in Peel Park, University of Salford

We are always looking to establish scholarships, bursaries, prizes to support students from, widening participation backgrounds and across all fields of study.

"The Mason family are proud to support the Gerry Mason Scholarship bursary, supporting over 50 students to date. Our partnership with University of Salford is delivering real change by attracting new talent to technical sectors and developing the next generation of engineers, as well as helping those from underprivileged background achieve their dream in STEM. I am proud to be continuing my father’s legacy."

Ged Mason, CEO of Morson International

Anna, an Hg Access to Tech Scholar, has experienced first-hand the impact of donor support:

"I am incredibly grateful for the support this scholarship has provided. The Harrington Foundation & Hg Scholarship Careers event allowed me to connect with mentors, professionals and fellow students, gaining valuable advice and insights. Through my course and the support of the scholarship, I have strengthened my ability to manage my time effectively while balancing academic and personal commitments. I have also built connections with other scholarship students, whose support and advice have contributed to both my personal and academic growth."

If you are a friend, alumni, industry partner, charitable trust/foundation and would like to find out about establishing your a Scholarship Programme, you can contact Nic Whyley, Senior Philanthropy Manager n.whyley@salford.ac.uk.

Application guidance

To give your application the best chance of success, please consider the following:

  • Take time to proofread your application before submitting. Applications will be reviewed for clarity, grammar, spelling and overall quality.
  • Engagement with your studies may be considered as part of the assessment process. This can include attendance, participation in learning activities and engagement with Blackboard.
  • Use of AI tools: You may use tools such as grammar or spelling checkers to support your application. However, your submission should reflect your own experiences, views and voice. Applications that rely heavily on AI-generated content may be disadvantaged.

If you have any questions about a Scholarship or the application process, please contact supporters@salford.ac.uk.

For current students

Applications open at various points throughout the academic year. The next opportunities for current students to apply for a Scholarship will be early November. Opportunities will be advertised through University channels, including Blackboard and the Student Hub. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria and application process. To apply, simply complete the application form linked within the relevant scholarship listing.

For prospective students (2027 entry)

Are you interested in starting university for 2027 entry at the University of Salford? You may be eligible for a Donor-Funded Scholarship.

Scholarships currently available for prospective students starting in 2027 include:

  • Gerry Mason Engineering Scholarship
  • Farrat Pemberton Scholarship
  • Gittins Family Charitable Trust Scholarship
  • Harrington Foundation Environmental Scholarship
  • Robert and Ann Oxley Scholarship

More details on the above Scholarship eligibility criteria and eligible courses, can be found below under each Scholarship.

Standard eligibility criteria:

  • Considering applying for 2027 entry to the University of Salford.
  • Considering studying a full-time course.
  • Considering studying one of the applicable courses listed below.
  • Are considered as a home or home-status student.
  • Align with at least one of the widening participation criteria published.

If successful, applicable applicants will be contacted in early October 2027, if they are being considered for a Donor-Funded Scholarship.

If you would like to learn more about donor-funded Scholarships at the University of Salford, please contact supporters@salford.ac.uk.

Faculty of Social Sciences, Humanities and the Arts for People and Economy
The Aziz Foundation Masters - Journalism Scholarship

The Journalism Scholarship Programme offers 100% tuition fee Masters scholarships to support British Muslims to study at UK universities. The scholarships are aimed at those who wish to advance in their careers and bring positive change to their communities and beyond.

The Aziz Foundation invite applications from people who are dedicated to:

  • Effective Advocacy and Enhancing Public Perception – facilitating better representation and contribution of Muslims to civil society to combat Islamophobia and positively transform perceptions of British Muslims
  • Community Service and Social Development – raising the aspirations and standards within British Muslim communities

The aim is to support emerging leaders who have a high level of commitment to the community and who are able to demonstrate that they can lead and inspire in their respective field. Ultimately we want to support those who have the ambition and drive to reach the top of their field.

Eligibility criteria

  • Media and Journalism (open all year around)
  • Scholarships are only open to those who qualify for Home Fees status in the UK. Applications from international students will not be considered.
  • Be active within a Muslim community and demonstrate intimate knowledge of issues affecting British Muslim communities
  • Demonstrate long-term commitment to community/societal development within Britain
  • Show how the course will increase their effectiveness in one of the following areas relating to British Muslims:
    • Effective Advocacy and Enhance Public Perception – facilitating better representation and contribution of Muslims to civil society to combat Islamophobia and positively transform perceptions of British Muslims
    • Community Service and Social Development – raising the aspirations and standards within British Muslim communities
  • Applications are submitted online. The criteria for the Journalism Scholarship remains the same as the general Masters Scholarships Programme.
  • Please submit your application no later than three months prior to course commencement. Applications submitted later will not be considered

Further eligibility criteria can be found on the Aziz Foundation website.

Faculty of Science, Engineering and Environment
The Gittins Family Charitable Trust Scholarship

The Gittins Trust is a charity focused on supporting students in engineering, manufacturing and health work. University of Salford alumnus, Michael Woodmore is a trustee.

There are four scholarships available for Level 4 (Year 1), undergraduate students completing an engineering degree in one of the following programmes:

Thinking of joining the University of Salford in September 2027? You can apply for a donor-funded scholarship by completing the Donor-Funded Scholarship Application Form for 2027 Entry.

This scholarship is now closed for 2026 applications from current University of Salford students in their first year of study.

Eligibility criteria Value of award

Donor-funded scholarships and bursaries are available to applicants who are: 

  • A UK resident. 
  • Studying full-time for the duration of their programme. 
  • Studying an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate programme.
  • This Scholarship is specifically for female students.
  • From a widening participation (WP) background, where social, economic, or educational disadvantage may impact your higher educational journey. For more information, see the complete list of widening participation criteria.
  • Priority will be given to those residing in areas in IMD Quintile 1, 2 and Salford postcodes, as well as those who are the first in their family to attend university.
  • Please note that eligibility does not guarantee funding. All eligible applicants must apply and will be considered through a competitive selection process.
£4,500 over three years of study
Gerry Mason Engineering Scholarship

The Gerry Mason Engineering Scholarship is kindly funded by Morson Group, in memory of Gerry Mason, founder of the Morson Group.

There are five scholarships available for Level 4 (Year 1), undergraduate students completing an engineering degree in one of the following programmes:

Thinking of joining the University of Salford in September 2027? You can apply for a donor-funded scholarship by completing the Donor-Funded Scholarship Application Form for 2027 Entry.

This scholarship is now closed for 2026 applications from current University of Salford students in their first year of study.

Eligibility criteria Value of award

Donor-funded scholarships and bursaries are available to applicants who are: 

  • A UK resident. 
  • Studying full-time for the duration of their programme. 
  • Studying an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate programme.
  • From a widening participation (WP) background, where social, economic, or educational disadvantage may impact your higher educational journey. For more information, see the complete list of widening participation criteria.  
  • Priority will be given to those residing in areas in IMD Quintile 1, 2 and Salford postcodes, as well as those who are the first in their family to attend university.
  • Please note that eligibility does not guarantee funding. All eligible applicants must apply and will be considered through a competitive selection process.
£10,000 over three years of study 
The Robert and Ann Oxley Engineering Scholarship

The Robert and Ann Oxley Scholarship supports students in Engineering courses. Robert Oxley was the founder of the Oxley Group, a world leader in electrical component and electronics manufacturing.  A strong advocate for research and innovation, he had over 150 patents to his name. Following his passing, his wife Ann Oxley, continued to lead the Group with distinction. She received an Honorary Master of Science degree from the University in 1999 in recognition of her contribution to industry, the community and the university

There are six scholarships available for Level 4 (Year 1), undergraduate students completing an engineering degree in one of the following programmes:

Thinking of joining the University of Salford in September 2027? You can apply for a donor-funded scholarship by completing the Donor-Funded Scholarship Application Form for 2027 Entry.

This scholarship is now closed for 2026 applications from current University of Salford students in their first year of study.

Eligibility criteria Value of award

Donor-funded scholarships and bursaries are available to applicants who are: 

  • A UK resident. 
  • Studying full-time for the duration of their programme. 
  • Studying an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate programme.
  • From a widening participation (WP) background, where social, economic, or educational disadvantage may impact your higher educational journey. For more information, see the complete list of widening participation criteria.  
  • Priority will be given to those residing in areas in IMD Quintile 1, 2 and Salford postcodes, as well as those who are the first in their family to attend university.

Please note that eligibility does not guarantee funding. All eligible applicants must apply and will be considered through a competitive selection process.

£15,000 over three years of study
Hg Access To Tech Scholarship

Hg Access to Tech scholarships are generously funded through Hg Capital. Hg is a leading investor in European and transatlantic software and services businesses. Nic Humphries, a Salford alumnus, is the Senior Partner and Executive Chairman.

There are five scholarships available for Level 4 (Year 1), undergraduate students completing a degree in one of the following programmes: 

Other students may be considered from a wider STEM background if they can evidence strong interest in the environment.

Thinking of joining the University of Salford in September 2027? You can apply for a donor-funded scholarship by completing the Donor-Funded Scholarship Application Form for 2027 Entry.

This scholarship is now closed for 2026 applications from current University of Salford students in their first year of study.

Eligibility criteria Value of award

Applicants from communities currently underrepresented in higher education are encouraged to apply. This includes individuals who live in areas identified as having lower progression to university (POLAR4 quintile 1 or 2) or areas experiencing multiple forms of deprivation (IMD quintile 1 or 2). Find out your IMD quintile.

  • First-in-family to attend university. 49% of our students are first-in-family to attend university
£12,000 over three years of study (placement uplift available if secured in the summer L4 and L5)
Faculty of Health, Community and Life Sciences
The Gittins Family Charitable Trust Scholarship

The Gittins Trust is a charity focused on supporting students in engineering, manufacturing and health work. University of Salford alumnus, Michael Woodmore is a trustee.

There are three scholarships available for a Level 4 (Year 1), undergraduate male students completing a nursing degree in one of the following programmes:

There is one scholarship available for a Level 4 (Year 1), undergraduate student completing a BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy degree 

Thinking of joining the University of Salford in September 2027? You can apply for a donor-funded scholarship by completing the Donor-Funded Scholarship Application Form for 2027 Entry.

This scholarship is now closed for 2026 applications from current University of Salford students in their first year of study.

Eligibility criteria Value of award
  • A UK resident. 
  • Studying full-time for the duration of their programme (Physiotherapy Scholarship is applicable to those studying part-time)
  • Studying an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate programme.
  • This Nursing Scholarships are specifically for Male students.
  • The Physiotherapy Scholarship – applicable to all genders 
  • From a widening participation (WP) background, where social, economic, or educational disadvantage may impact your higher educational journey. For more information, see the complete list of widening participation criteria.  
  • Priority will be given to those residing in areas in IMD Quintile 1, 2 and Salford postcodes, as well as those who are the first in their family to attend university.
  • Please note that eligibility does not guarantee funding. All eligible applicants must apply and will be considered through a competitive selection process.
£4,500 over three years of study – Level 4
The Harrington Foundation Environmental Scholarship

The Harrington Foundation funds scholarships at the University of Salford to support students facing barriers to education and promote social mobility. Their wider charitable work focuses on research, policy, and scalable projects in both environmental and social sectors, driving long-term change for people and planet.

As an Harrington Scholar, where appropriate you will have the opportunity to network with industry employers, helping you to expand your professional network and develop valuable employability skills. In addition, you will be matched with a mentor and you'll also be offered a placement opportunity during the summer between your first and second year, giving you valuable industry experience and helping you build your future career. This is all subject to approval and availability.

There are five scholarships available for Level 4 (Year 1), undergraduate students completing a degree in one of the following programmes: 

Other students may be considered from a wider STEM background if they can evidence strong interest in the environment.

Thinking of joining the University of Salford in September 2027? You can apply for a donor-funded scholarship by completing the Donor-Funded Scholarship Application Form for 2027 Entry.

This scholarship is now closed for 2026 applications from current University of Salford students in their first year of study.

Eligibility criteria Value of award
  • A UK resident. 
  • Studying full-time for the duration of their programme. 
  • Studying an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate programme.
  • From a widening participation (WP) background, where social, economic, or educational disadvantage may impact your higher educational journey. For more information, see the complete list of widening participation criteria.    
  • Priority will be given to those residing in areas in IMD Quintile 1 & 2 and Salford postcodes, as well as those who are the first in their family to attend university.
  • Please note that eligibility does not guarantee funding. All eligible applicants must apply and will be considered through a competitive selection process.
£12,000 over three years of study (placement uplift available if secured in the summer between L4 and L5)
Applicable to all faculties
Farrat Pemberton Scholarship

Farrat Isolevel is a global engineering and manufacturing company based in Altrincham, with operations in Germany and projects worldwide. Specialising in innovative solutions that improve building performance and sustainability, the company uses advanced engineering expertise to solve complex challenges and support more efficient, sustainable communities. The company offers scholarships across Engineering & Built Environment, Digital & Technology, Business Management and Sustainability.

There is one scholarship available for a master’s student completing a degree in one of the following programmes:

There are two scholarship available for a undergraduate students completing a degree in one of the following programmes:

Thinking of joining the University of Salford in September 2027? You can apply for a donor-funded scholarship by completing the Donor-Funded Scholarship Application Form for 2027 Entry.

This scholarship is now closed for 2026 applications from current University of Salford students in their first year of study.

Eligibility criteria Value of award
  • A UK resident. 
  • Studying full-time for the duration of their programme. 
  • Studying an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate programme.
  • From a widening participation (WP) background, where social, economic, or educational disadvantage may impact your higher educational journey. For more information, see the complete list of widening participation criteria.   
  • Priority will be given to those residing in areas in IMD Quintile 1, 2 and Salford postcodes, as well as those who are the first in their family to attend university.
  • Please note that eligibility does not guarantee funding. All eligible applicants must apply and will be considered through a competitive selection process.

Masters: £4,500

Undergraduate: £10,000