Preparing a funding application
When should I look for funding?
Most funding opportunities have specific opening periods with deadlines for receipt of applications. This has been included in the information on this website wherever it is available.
Most grant schemes only have a limited amount of money – which will run out towards the end of the academic year. The sooner you apply, the better your chances of getting some money. Look before your course starts, if possible, as the application process could take time.
If you don't find something appropriate to apply for straight away, don't worry. Funding programmes will be available throughout the year. However, when you find a grant or scholarship you're interested in, don't wait until the deadline to submit your application – get it done as soon as possible.
Making your application
The procedure for applying for funding differs depending on which grant you are applying to. Make sure you read the application procedure for each fund carefully. Generally they will require either a letter or application form.
In your letter to the funder you need to clearly say:
- who you are,
- how much money you want,
- why you need the funding,
- how it will be used, and
- what will be achieved.
Information to support your application
All funding schemes have a number of eligibility criteria that applicants must meet in order ot receive funding. The criteria used to award funding varies depending on the aims of the scheme but generally it might include: location, age, household income, sex, religion, subject of study, country of birth, occupation, employment status, the course you have chosen, the level of study, your academic background.
In your application you must be able to demonstrate how you meet their criteria. The more evidence you can supply to support the fact that you need funding the better. What you’ll be asked to provide depends on the kind of funding you’re seeking and who’s providing it. Here’s a quick list of the type of things they might ask for:
- Proof of address
- Academic background
- Employment profile and proof of employment/unemployment
- Bank statements
- Evidence of any other funding you’re receiving