For applicants filling out their UCAS forms for 2004 the message from the University of Aberdeen is clear: you're better off studying at Aberdeen. The financial burden of full-time undergraduate study is a major concern for students and the University is addressing this by offering entrance bursaries and scholarships to help students manage their expenses. More than 60 scholarships are available to students applying to study in 2004.
The University of Aberdeen annually awards scholarships worth £1,000 for each year of study (covering up to five years of study) and unlike Student Loans, the money does not have to be repaid upon graduation or commencing employment.
30 Open Bursaries are available for applicants with exceptional qualifications from school, college or elsewhere. In addition, if personal or financial circumstances might make it difficult for students to enter higher education, the University offers Prince of Wales Scholarships funded by The Royal Bank of Scotland and Alumni Annual Awards funded by graduates of the University for support of current students.
Mature student, Marijke Donald, recipient of the Prince of Wales Scholarship award said: " As this is my second degree I do not get any funding from the government, even though I am retraining due to a disability. If it had not been for this award I would have really struggled to pay my way through University. I am very thankful for the help and support I have received from Aberdeen University and this award."
Clare Gadie, Head of Student Recruitment and Admissions said: "For all our awards, we are looking for applicants with good academic potential and are committed to offering this kind of support to enable students from all backgrounds to study at the University of Aberdeen.
"For the Prince of Wales Scholarships and Alumni Annual Fund Bursaries we look closely at applicants'
personal circumstances and seek to help those who would have to deal with financial hardship as well as applicants who have had to overcome personal or family difficulties to get this far. Competition is fierce, but it is well worth applying, last year, there was a one in four chance of receiving an award."
For information on the bursary scheme visit:http://www.abdn.ac.uk/bursary or telephone Lisa Rattray on 01224 273945