If you’re a Black British student dreaming of a quality education but facing financial challenges, the Cowrie Foundation Scholarship 2025-2026 at the University of Aberdeen is an unmissable opportunity. With full tuition coverage and a generous maintenance stipend, this life-changing scholarship is specifically designed to support underrepresented students from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds across the UK.

By partnering with the Cowrie Scholarship Foundation, the University of Aberdeen commits to creating meaningful change by helping students not just gain access to education, but thrive in it. If you’re preparing to begin your undergraduate studies in September 2025, this fully funded scholarship could support you every step of the way.

About the Cowrie Scholarship Foundation & University of Aberdeen

The Cowrie Scholarship Foundation (CSF) is a UK-based charity with a mission to support over 100 Black British students through UK universities over the next 10 years. Their aim is to break down the financial barriers that disproportionately affect students from Black communities, empowering the next generation of leaders.

The University of Aberdeen is indeed 1 of the oldest universities in the UK, as its origin is traced back to 1945. It is globally respected for research excellence, ranked in the top 200 worldwide (QS World Rankings 2024), and is known for its commitment to widening participation and supporting student equity.

Cowrie Foundation Scholarship 2025 Overview

Feature	Details
Scholarship Name	Cowrie Foundation Scholarship
Offered By	University of Aberdeen in partnership with the Cowrie Scholarship Foundation
Scholarship Type	Fully funded (tuition + maintenance)
Degree Level	Undergraduate (Bachelor’s only)
Eligible Nationality	Black British students in the UK
Value	Full UK home tuition + £8,000/year maintenance (up to £24,000 total)
Deadline	31 July 2025
Study Start	September 2025
Duration	Up to 3 years (subject to academic progress)

Scholarship Benefits

Successful applicants to the Cowrie Foundation Scholarship will receive:

• Full UK Home tuition fee coverage for the duration of the undergraduate program
• Annual maintenance stipend of £8,000, for up to three years (maximum £24,000)
• Continuous academic support through University of Aberdeen student services
• Access to mentoring and community-building programs
• You’ll secure a chance to become a part of a growing Cowrie Foundation alumni and peer network

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Cowrie Foundation Scholarship 2025-26, applicants must:

1. Ethnic Background Requirement
   • Identity: Black or Black British – Caribbean
   • Black or Black British – African
   • Mixed – White and Black Caribbean
   • Mixed – White and Black African
   • Any other Black background
2. Admission Status
   • Must have firmly accepted an offer to study a first full-time undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen
   • Program must begin in the 2025-2026 academic year
3. Residency & Fee Status
   • Must be assessed as a Home or Rest of UK student for tuition purposes
4. Income Requirement
   • Must have a household income of £25,000 or less
5. Student Finance Application
   • Must have applied to the relevant UK student funding body and be eligible for full financial support
   • You have to provide a valid consent to share information with the University of Aberdeen

Application Process

Applying for the Cowrie Foundation Scholarship is straightforward. Follow the steps below:

• Step 1: Apply and receive an offer to a full-time undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen
• Step 2: Apply for student finance via SAAS, Student Finance England, Wales, or Northern Ireland
• Step 3: Fill out the Cowrie Scholarship Application Form
  → Apply here
• Step 4: Write a 700-word personal statement covering:
  • Why this scholarship would benefit you
  • How it would help you reach academic goals
  • How you’ll give back to your community or society
  • Achievements you’re most proud of
• Step 5: Submit your application by 31 July 2025

Comparison of Cowrie Foundation vs Other 

Scholarship Name	Value	Eligible Degrees	Ethnicity Requirement	Deadline
Cowrie Foundation (Aberdeen)	Full tuition + £8,000/year	Undergraduate	Black British	31 July 2025
Stormzy Cambridge Scholarship	Full tuition + maintenance	Undergraduate	Black UK students	May 2025 (est.)
Sanctuary Scholarships (York)	Tuition + living expenses	UG & PG	Refugee/Asylum Seekers	June 2025
McLaren Future Scholarship	£20,000 over 3 years	STEM UG students	Black British	TBA
Black Heart Foundation Scholarship	Up to £15,000/year	UG & PG	All Black backgrounds	Rolling

FAQs About Cowrie Foundation Scholarship 2025

1. Who can apply for the Cowrie Foundation Scholarship?
   Only UK-based students identifying as Black or mixed Black heritage who have a household income below £25,000.
2. Can international students apply?
   No, this scholarship is only for students who qualify for UK ‘home’ fee status.
3. Does the scholarship cover accommodation?
   No, it provides a maintenance stipend (£8,000/year) which students may use toward accommodation, transport, or other living costs.
4. Can I apply for some more scholarships while having this one?
   Yes, but you must ensure that there are no overlapping funding restrictions.
5. Can I apply if I haven’t yet accepted my offer?
   You must have firmly accepted your Aberdeen offer via UCAS to be eligible.
6. Can part-time students apply for University of Aberdeen Cowrie Foundation scholarhsip?
   No, only full-time undergraduate students are eligible.
7. Can I study any subject in Cowrie Foundation Scholarship 2025?
   Yes, this scholarship is not limited by subject area.
8. Is the scholarship renewable?
   Yes, it is renewable annually for up to 3 years based on academic progress.
9. What if my income changes after applying?
   Your eligibility is based on household income at the time of application and assessment by student finance authorities.
10. When will I know the result of University of Aberdeen scholarships 2025?
    Shortlisted applicants will be notified after the July deadline, typically in August 2025.

The Cowrie Foundation Scholarship 2025-26 is more than financial aid — it’s a statement of inclusion, equity, and long-term empowerment. If you’re a Black British student looking to break barriers and make a difference, this scholarship can unlock your journey to academic excellence and societal impact. APPLY NOW before the deadline and take your first step toward a brighter, supported future. Please read the full details on the official website of the University of Aberdeen.