In the UK, the rising cost of education is a concern not only for full-time students but increasingly for part-time learners as well. Whether pursuing a degree while working or balancing family commitments, part-time students often struggle to access financial aid at the same level as their full-time counterparts. However, numerous scholarship opportunities are now available to support this growing demographic. This guide explores the landscape of scholarships for part-time students in the UK, with detailed facts, eligibility criteria, and guidance on how to apply successfully.
Why Scholarships Matter for Part-Time Students
1. Growing Demand for Flexible Education
According to the UK’s Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), more than 21% of undergraduate students were studying part-time as of 2023. Many of these students are mature learners or professionals looking to upgrade their qualifications. Financial aid can be a game-changer for these individuals.
2. Challenges Faced by Part-Time Students
- Reduced access to full funding options
- Limited eligibility for government maintenance loans
- Balancing work and study often results in financial strain
Scholarships specifically designed for part-time students aim to bridge this gap and promote educational equity.
Types of Scholarships Available
1. University-Specific Scholarships
Many UK universities offer tailored funding packages for part-time learners. Examples include:
- The Open University (OU): Offers several scholarships, including the Carers’ Scholarship and the Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship, both available to part-time students.
- University of London Distance Learning Scholarships: Part-time learners studying remotely can apply for merit-based or need-based awards.
Resource: The Open University Scholarships
2. Government Support and Student Finance
While traditional maintenance loans are limited, part-time students may still access:
- Tuition Fee Loans (based on course intensity)
- Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSAs)
- Adult Dependants’ Grant
Check eligibility via GOV.UK Part-Time Student Finance
3. Charities and Nonprofit Scholarships
Many organizations extend support to specific student groups:
- Turn2Us Grants Search Tool
- The Leverhulme Trust: Offers part-time study grants in selected fields
- The Helena Kennedy Foundation: For students facing significant barriers to higher education
Resource: Turn2Us Grants Search
4. Employer-Funded Study Schemes
Some companies offer study support packages or partial sponsorships for employees pursuing part-time degrees, particularly in sectors like health, business, and engineering.
Eligibility Criteria for Part-Time Scholarships
Each scholarship provider sets its own criteria, but common requirements include:
- Course Intensity: Often must be at least 25% of a full-time course
- Residency Status: Must be a UK national or have settled/pre-settled status
- Household Income: Many are need-based and assess financial background
- Academic Merit: A minimum grade threshold or work experience may be required
Tip: Always check with the individual scholarship provider or university for up-to-date criteria.
How to Find and Apply for Part-Time Scholarships
1. Start with University Financial Aid Offices
Each university has a dedicated financial aid page where you can search for internal scholarships for part-time students.
Example:
2. Use Dedicated Search Engines
Platforms like:
allow filtering by part-time status, field of study, and location.
3. Prepare a Strong Application
- Personal Statement: Tailor it to show how part-time study aligns with your goals
- References: Obtain work or academic references supporting your application
- Documentation: Provide financial records, proof of enrollment, and course details
Real-Time Data and Trends (2024-2025)
Key Statistics
- Over 170,000 part-time students were enrolled in UK higher education institutions in 2023 (HESA)
- The number of part-time scholarship applications increased by 22% year-on-year, highlighting increased awareness
- The average part-time tuition in the UK ranges from £2,500 to £6,000 annually, depending on intensity and institution
Emerging Fields with Funding Priority
- Healthcare (Nursing, Midwifery)
- Digital Skills and Cybersecurity
- Green Energy and Sustainability Studies
Some scholarships are strategically aligned with the UK’s national skills agenda and are designed to attract learners into priority sectors.
Notable Scholarships for 2025
1. The Open University Carers Scholarship
- Covers full tuition for part-time students
- Designed for unpaid carers
2. Helena Kennedy Foundation Bursaries
- £1,500 bursary
- For students overcoming significant hardship
- Available for part-time and full-time students
3. City Lit Bursaries
- For adult learners in London studying part-time
- Covers tuition, equipment, or transport costs
4. UCU Part-Time Study Awards
- Targeted at members of the University and College Union (UCU)
- Designed for professional development and retraining
Case Studies: Real Students, Real Impact
Sarah, a Single Parent and OU Student
Sarah received a Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship from The Open University. Studying part-time allowed her to manage parenting duties while building a new career in social work.
Ahmed, a Healthcare Worker in Manchester
Ahmed used an employer-sponsored scholarship to pursue part-time nursing studies. His trust covered 60% of tuition under the NHS Workforce Development Fund.
Priya, a Career Changer
Priya transitioned from hospitality to data analysis through a part-time MSc funded partly by The Leverhulme Trust. The flexibility of part-time learning allowed her to keep working while reskilling, and now she’s employed full-time in tech.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
1. Misunderstanding Course Intensity
Many students are unaware that intensity affects funding eligibility. Always calculate your course intensity percentage correctly.
2. Poor Application Materials
Invest time in personalizing your statements and getting professional reference letters.
3. Not Applying to Enough Opportunities
Use multiple databases and apply to all eligible scholarships, not just one or two.
4. Lack of Awareness
Many students don’t know part-time scholarships exist. Universities and funding bodies need better outreach, and students must proactively research options.
Tips for Maximizing Scholarship Success
- Start Early: Begin researching at least 6–12 months before your start date
- Track Deadlines: Use a spreadsheet or calendar to stay organized
- Join Support Networks: Many online groups (e.g., The OU Student Association) offer peer advice
- Speak to Advisors: University funding teams are often underutilized resources
- Practice Interview Skills: Some scholarships involve a panel or interview process. Practice responding confidently and clearly.
Conclusion
Scholarships for part-time students in the UK are no longer an afterthought—they’re a vital support mechanism enabling access, equity, and lifelong learning. With the right resources, awareness, and preparation, part-time students can now study affordably while balancing work and family responsibilities.
By utilizing tools like The Scholarship Hub and checking individual university portals, applicants can uncover funding sources once thought out of reach.
For many, these scholarships aren’t just financial relief; they’re pathways to new careers, personal growth, and social mobility.
To succeed, students should stay proactive, organized, and motivated. Every scholarship application is a step toward a better future. Institutions are also increasingly aware of the importance of flexibility in education, and funding opportunities are likely to continue growing.
Feranmi Nureni 
Fola