Unprecedented support launched by University of Essex

The University of Essex is launching an unprecedented package of support worth up to £6,000 as part of its commitment to supporting students through the cost of living crisis.

Essex wants to ensure applicants – particularly from low-income households - are not deterred from taking up the opportunity to go to university, and to support students to get the most from their student experience when they start their courses in the autumn.

The new package will help UK students from low-income households, who now will be eligible for an extra bursary of £2,000 to help with accommodation costs in their first year at either the Colchester and Southend Campus, on top of the existing £2,000 means-tested cash bursary.

In addition, all students are being offered an additional £2,000 award for on-campus accommodation if they achieve BBB or above in their A-levels or the equivalent in other qualifications.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Lorna Fox O’Mahony said: “The opportunity to benefit from an Essex education transforms our students’ lives. We know that cost of living is a particular concern for this cohort of applicants, and we want to ensure that they don’t miss out on the living and learning experiences of an Essex education. We want everyone who has the potential to benefit from a University of Essex education to do so.

“Living at the heart of our vibrant campuses offers so many benefits to new students. It ensures they are well placed to access all our learning resources, support services, extra-curricular activities, and to enjoy being at the heart of our community.”

The University is focusing on providing extra help for students coping with the continuing Cost of Living crisis with its extensive range of support already including increased hardship funding, more job opportunities on campus, subsidising cheap food options and extending its programme of free events and activities.

New research by the Sutton Trust has indicated a fifth of students may choose to stay at home during their studies because they are concerned about costs. The University of Essex is helping students from low-income household to access the benefits of living on campus, so they do not miss out on the exceptional living and learning experience at Essex.

Students’ Union President Kieran Phillips said: “University offers the opportunity for students to discover their purpose and finances should never stop them from achieving this.

“The university has rightly recognised the current financial climate, and I hope that this will allow even more students to join our vibrant Essex community and get the education they deserve. This offer on top of the work being done by the SU and the university to support our students through the cost-of-living crisis continues to show our commitment to ensuring students are allowed to flourish and achieve their goals.”

Living in on-campus accommodation means new students can access all support services and facilities as easily as possible. Planning their finances is also more straightforward as accommodation costs include energy bills, internet access, contents insurance, 24/7 security, and support from well-being teams. Silver Essex Sport gym membership is also provided at no extra cost for those on Colchester Campus.

Full terms and conditions can be viewed online at: www.essex.ac.uk/scholarships

Call the Clearing Hotline on 01206 873666 or go to www.essex.ac.uk/clearing