The Open Futures Scholarship for Black Students is a transformative opportunity designed to support new, UK-resident students who identify as Black. This scholarship aims to foster inclusivity and accessibility in higher education, providing a fully funded pathway to academic success. In this article, we will delve into the details of the scholarship, its eligibility criteria, application process, and the benefits it offers to prospective students.
Scholarship Opportunity Details:
Category: Bachelors Grants Scholarships for Black Undergraduate
School: Open University
Eligible Locations:Â United Kingdom
Application Deadline: 03 July, 2024
What is the Open Futures Scholarship?
The Open Futures Scholarship for Black Students is an initiative by The Open University, UK, aimed at addressing the underrepresentation of Black students in higher education. This scholarship provides ten students with the opportunity to study for free, covering the full tuition cost of their undergraduate qualification, up to 120 credits each academic year and 360 credits in total. Additionally, successful recipients will receive a one-off £500 study costs grant to support their preparation for study, such as purchasing a laptop, study materials, or arranging internet access.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Open Futures Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Ethnicity: Applicants must identify as being from a Black background, including Black African, Black Caribbean, Black Other, Mixed-White and Black Caribbean, Mixed-White and Black African, or other mixed backgrounds that include Black African, Black Caribbean, or Black Other.
- Income: Applicants must have a personal annual income of not more than £25,000 or receive a qualifying benefit.
- Residency: Applicants must be ordinarily resident in the UK and eligible for a UK fee.
- Education: Applicants must hold no existing higher education qualification and be new students to The Open University.
- Study Intensity: Applicants must intend to study towards an undergraduate OU qualification or module commencing in the 2024/25 academic year, with a minimum study intensity of 25% (30 credits) per academic year.
Application Process
The application process for the Open Futures Scholarship is straightforward. Interested applicants must complete an online application form and submit it along with supporting evidence to the Student Fees team. The application deadline is midday on July 3, 2024. Applicants will be notified of the outcome by July 19, 2024.To apply, follow these steps:
- Download the Application Form: Visit the official Open University website to download the full scholarship terms and conditions and the application form.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the application form with accurate and detailed information.
- Submit the Application: Email the completed application form and supporting evidence to the Student Fees team. Contact details can be found on the first page of the application form.
For more information and to apply, click here to apply.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The Open Futures Scholarship offers numerous benefits to its recipients, including:
- Full Tuition Coverage: The scholarship covers the full tuition cost of the recipient’s undergraduate qualification, up to 120 credits each academic year and 360 credits in total.
- Study Costs Grant: A one-off £500 grant is provided to support the costs of preparing for study, such as buying a laptop, study materials, or arranging internet access.
- Support and Guidance: Successful applicants will receive support and guidance from The Open University to ensure they are ready to study and to help them choose their course if needed.
The Importance of the Scholarship
The Open Futures Scholarship is a crucial step towards closing the gap between the representation of Black students at The Open University and the wider UK university sector. Recent government research has shown that more than half of Black children in the UK live in poverty, and Black students are currently underrepresented at The Open University compared to the rest of the sector. This scholarship aims to address these disparities by providing targeted financial support to Black students, promoting equity in access to higher education.
Additional Support Programs
In addition to the Open Futures Scholarship, The Open University offers various other support programs that address different limitations or disadvantages prospective students might face. These include financial support for carers, care-experienced learners, disabled veterans, and asylum seekers. The university also offers a study-related costs fund, which is open to anyone on a low income.
Conclusion
The Open Futures Scholarship for Black Students is a remarkable opportunity for new, UK-resident students who identify as Black to pursue their academic dreams without the burden of tuition fees. By providing full tuition coverage and additional financial support, this scholarship aims to foster inclusivity and accessibility in higher education.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss this chance to apply and take a significant step towards achieving your academic and career goals.For more information and to apply, click here to apply.
By following the guidelines and utilizing the resources provided, you can ensure that your application stands out and increases your chances of being selected for this prestigious scholarship. Good luck!
Open Futures Scholarship 2024/2025: Empowering Black Students Towards Academic Excellence. Apply Now!
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