How our scholarships are transforming lives

As we step into the new year, we’re delighted to showcase the wide range of scholarships we award annually, made possible by the generosity of our donors.

Each year, the funding we receive from our supporters enables us to enrich students' lives through scholarships, providing the financial aid that makes higher education accessible.

This year, we’re proud to have awarded a total of 361 scholarships, with 181 new scholarships and 180 continuing awards. These include 50 PhD studentships and 311 undergraduate scholarships, supporting students across all faculties here at Newcastle University.

Below, some of our scholarship recipients share how these programmes have transformed their lives.

The Women’s Giving Circle Scholarship

The Women’s Giving Circle Scholarship breaks down barriers like financial constraints to inspire more women to pursue degrees in subjects where women are underrepresented. Funded by successful alumnae and friends of the University, it empowers women to achieve their potential through financial support, mentorship, and access to professional networks, helping them during their studies and after graduation.

Natasha, a Marine Biology student and recipient, shared, "receiving this scholarship has been a huge relief - it’s lifted a significant weight off my shoulders. It’s truly inspiring to see women empowering and supporting one another."

The Ann Cairns Scholarship

The Ann Cairns Scholarship supports young women to pursue STEM subjects. The scholarship aims to inspire the next generation of female scientists and engineers.

Charlotte-Anne, a Physics student and recipient, shared, "the scholarship has allowed me to buy accessible equipment and textbooks to study from home, helping me succeed despite health challenges. I’m so thankful to the donors - it truly makes a difference."

The Tony Trapp PhD Studentship

The Tony Trapp PhD Studentship supports students tackling the global challenge of achieving net zero through innovative research. We currently have 3 researchers on campus receiving this generous award.

Freddie, a PhD Mechanical Engineering student and recipient, shared, "receiving the Tony Trapp PhD Studentship was a massive opportunity. It allowed me to pursue a PhD when I otherwise couldn’t. The support covers living expenses, tuition, and conferences where I could get those real-world experiences. I’m very grateful for this opportunity and enjoy the work I’m doing."

The Barbour Foundation PhD Studentship

The Barbour Foundation PhD Studentship, established by Dame Margaret Barbour, supports PhD studentships in our Faculty of Medical Sciences. These scholarships focus on critical areas such as dementia, cancer, age-related chronic diseases, immunology, and neuroscience.

Emma, a PhD Translation and Clinical Research student and recipient, shared, "the Barbour Foundation Studentship has allowed me to attend major conferences, collaborate with researchers, and access specialised lab equipment. This support is invaluable for carrying out life-saving research. Thank you to the donors for enabling us to work on solutions that could benefit countless lives."

How you can help

Our mission to give Newcastle students the best possible opportunities is at the heart of everything we do. Our aim is to give each student the skills and experiences they need to thrive while with us, and in their future.

We don't want any student to miss out on what makes belonging to Newcastle University so special. With your help, we can fund scholarships, society memberships, sports equipment, field trips and more.

If you’d like to discuss how you can help us in this mission, please get in touch.