We offer support for estranged students, looked-after children and care leavers by working in partnership with local councils, schools, colleges and other Universities regionally. For students wanting to find out about studying at university and/or considering applying to the University of Southampton we offer individual pre-application visits, providing the opportunity to speak to staff and students.
The University of Southampton is committed to widening participation and ensuring that all students with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data supports our admissions teams to recognise a student’s achievements and identify their potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. As an estranged student/care leaver your application will receive additional consideration and more information on what this means for you is available on our admissions pages.
Ignite your Journey
Estranged students and care leavers interested in studying at the University of Southampton are encouraged to apply to the Ignite your Journey programme in Year 12/the first year of A Level study. The programme includes support with the transition to University, and potential eligibility for additional admissions consideration and a bursary.
See our Ignite your Journey pages for more information.
Open Day and Applicant Visit Day Travel Bursary
We understand that travel costs can be a barrier when invited to attend a University Applicant Visit event. Therefore, we are offering a travel bursary of up to £100 to care experienced individuals to help with these costs.
View our application form for more information and details on how to apply.
Estranged students and care leavers are entitled to an annual bursary of £2,000 for the duration of their undergraduate course.
A care leavers bursary is also available to care leavers on postgraduate courses.
Further information on the financial support and bursaries available to care leavers can be found on our Financial Information and Assistance pages.
In addition to the bursary, the University of Southampton offers the following support to care leavers:
We also like to recognise and celebrate your success when you graduate and will provide additional financial support to cover the costs of your gown hire, graduation photo and a ticket to the graduation ball.
If you have any questions or would like to find out more about our support for care experienced and estranged students please contact:
Emma Woozeer - Access Manager (Ignite)
Email: careleavers@soton.ac.uk