Are you a student from a disadvantaged background in Birmingham looking for a fully funded opportunity to study at university? The Employers’ Scholarships 2026 at University College Birmingham offer one of the most generous financial aid packages in the UK—covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
This scholarship is designed to remove financial barriers and help talented students achieve academic success while gaining real-world experience through industry partnerships.
Scholarship Summary Table
| Scholarship Name | Employers’ Scholarships 2026 |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | University College Birmingham |
| Study Level | Undergraduate |
| Eligible Location | Birmingham (UK) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Total Value | Over £50,000+ (approx.) |
| Application Deadline | 31 July 2026 |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
| Number of Awards | 8 Scholarships |
| Eligible Students | UK Home Students from disadvantaged backgrounds |
About Employers’ Scholarships 2026
The Employers’ Scholarships at University College Birmingham (UCB) are part of a strong commitment to widening participation and supporting students from economically and socially disadvantaged areas.
These scholarships are specifically targeted at students living in Birmingham postcodes associated with hardship, who may have previously believed university was financially out of reach.
For the 2026 academic year, UCB is offering eight fully funded scholarships, developed in partnership with leading employers across various industries.
Partner Organizations
Each scholarship is backed by a reputable employer, giving students access to mentorship, career development, and job opportunities. Sponsors include:
- Hobart Commercial Kitchen Equipment
- Miss Macaroon (founded by Rosie Ginday MBE)
- Celtic Collection Hotels
- Siemens Engineering
- Didactic Services Ltd
- Wood Manor Group
- City of Birmingham Rockets Basketball Club
- Red Carnation Hotels
These partnerships ensure that scholars gain both academic knowledge and industry exposure, improving their employability after graduation.
Eligible Courses
Applicants must be enrolled in one of the following priority courses:
- Automated Manufacturing Engineering BEng (Hons)
- Bakery and Patisserie Technology BSc (Hons)
- Business Enterprise BA (Hons)
- Business Management BA (Hons)
- Computer Science BSc (Hons)
- Construction Management BSc (Hons)
- Culinary Arts Management BA (Hons)
- Cyber Security BSc (Hons)
- Electromechanical Engineering BEng (Hons)
- International Hospitality and Tourism Management BA (Hons)
- Mechanical Engineering BEng (Hons)
- Sport and Exercise Science BSc (Hons)
These programs are aligned with regional skill shortages, increasing your chances of employment after graduation.
Scholarship Benefits
The Employers’ Scholarships provide a comprehensive financial support package, including:
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver (worth up to £29,370)
- Free Accommodation in The Maltings (worth £5,628/year)
- Annual Living Bursary of £1,600
- £6,000 Cost of Living Allowance (non-repayable)
- Kick-Start Funding of up to £800/year
This means you can study without worrying about tuition, housing, or daily expenses.
Additional Benefits
Beyond financial support, recipients also enjoy:
- Industry mentoring
- Work experience opportunities
- Career coaching and interview preparation
- Potential job placements after graduation
This makes the scholarship not just financial aid, but a complete career development package.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must meet both academic and personal background requirements.
Academic Requirements
- Be in the final year of post-16 education (e.g., Year 13 or college)
- Qualify for UK home fee status
- Meet course-specific entry requirements
- Have at least five GCSEs (grades 9–6 / A–B)*
- Must include English and Maths (minimum grade 4/C)
Personal Criteria
Applicants must meet at least two of the following:
- Eligible for free school meals in the past 6 years
- First generation in family to attend university
- Studied or currently studying at UCB college/sixth form
- Experienced difficult personal circumstances (e.g., illness, caregiving, disability)
- Household income of £35,000 or below
Priority Applicants
You will be prioritised if:
- You have been in local authority care
- You currently live in a supported accommodation or a foyer
Eligible Birmingham Areas
Students must live in specific postcode districts within Birmingham, including:
- B10, B11, B12, B14
- B18, B19, B2, B20
- B21, B23, B24, B25
- B26, B31, B32, B33
- B36, B6, B7, B8, B9
These areas fall under wards such as Ladywood, Hodge Hill, Perry Barr, Erdington, Yardley, and others.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply:
- Apply for an eligible undergraduate course at UCB
- Complete the Employers’ Scholarship application form
- Submit your application before 31 July 2026
- If shortlisted, attend an interview
- Final selection will be made by 31 August 2026.
Application Tips
To increase your chances of success:
- Clearly explain your career goals and ambitions
- Show a strong commitment to your chosen course
- Highlight your personal challenges and achievements
- Demonstrate how the scholarship will transform your future
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
- Interview Period: August 2026
- Final Selection: 31 August 2026
- Program Start: September 2026
FAQs
1. Is the Employers’ Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition fees, accommodation, and provides additional financial support for living expenses.
2. Can international students apply?
No, this scholarship is only for students eligible for UK home fee status.
3. Do I need to repay the scholarship?
No. All financial support provided is non-repayable.
4. How many scholarships are available?
There are eight scholarships available for the 2026 intake.
5. What makes this scholarship unique?
It combines full financial support with industry mentorship and career opportunities, making it one of the most comprehensive scholarships in the UK.
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