Staffordshire University, located in the heart of the United Kingdom, is celebrated for its dedication to fostering an inclusive international academic environment. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the university proudly introduces the SMART Scholarships, a remarkable initiative aimed at empowering international students eager to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees in a wide array of disciplines. This innovative scholarship program not only offers significant financial assistance but also opens doors for outstanding students from various backgrounds to experience high-quality education.
Scholarship Description:
- Host University: Staffordshire University
- Host Country: United Kingdom;
- Study Level: Bachelor, Masters, PhD Level;
- Scholarship Type: Full Funding;
- Scholarship Worth: Check the details below;
- Eligible Countries: International Students;
- Subjects Available: All subjects;
- Application Deadline: The Scholarship is open.Â
The SMART Scholarship program at Staffordshire University caters to students at all academic levels, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies. Exclusively available to international students, this scholarship encompasses a broad spectrum of subjects available at the university’s campuses in Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, and London. However, it does not apply to certain fields such as Nursing, Paramedic Science, Operating Department Practice, Social Work, Midwifery, or programs offered through blended or distance learning formats.
This scholarship aims to alleviate the financial challenges faced by talented individuals, automatically considering applicants for eligibility once they are accepted into a qualifying course. This streamlined approach means that prospective students do not need to submit a separate scholarship application, making the process more accessible and straightforward.
The SMART Scholarship’s core mission is to attract exceptional international talent, empowering students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations at one of the UK’s premier institutions. It embodies Staffordshire University’s dedication to promoting diversity, inclusion, and academic excellence in a global educational landscape.
Scholarship Benefits:
The SMART Scholarship presents an impressive £3,000 reduction in tuition fees for each year of study at Staffordshire University, empowering students to take control of their educational finances and concentrate on achieving their academic objectives. Below is an overview of the scholarship’s key benefits:
- Annual Tuition Reduction: The scholarship grants a £3,000 discount every year, ensuring that students enjoy this financial support throughout their full-time course. It’s important to note that this discount does not extend to any placement years.
- Seamless Scholarship Activation: Eligible students will have the scholarship automatically applied upon acceptance into a qualifying program, eliminating the need for a separate application process and simplifying the experience.
- Transparent Financial Planning: The scholarship discount is directly included in the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), providing students with clear insight into their financial commitments and helping them plan effectively.
The SMART Scholarship not only alleviates financial pressure but also enhances students’ educational experiences by granting access to a prestigious UK education at a more affordable cost.
Eligibility Requirements:
To be considered for the SMART Scholarship, applicants must fulfill certain eligibility requirements. Below is a detailed overview of the key conditions and limitations:
- International Student Status: This scholarship is exclusively available to students classified as international (non-UK) who are liable for paying tuition fees.
- Full-Time Program Enrollment: Applicants must have received an offer to enroll in a full-time taught program at one of Staffordshire University’s campuses, which include Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, or London.
- Exclusions for Specific Courses: Certain programs are not eligible for this scholarship, including Nursing, Paramedic Science, Operating Department Practice, Social Work, Midwifery, and courses offered through blended or distance learning formats.
- Limitations on Other Financial Aid: Students who are receiving full or partial funding from other scholarship providers or sponsors are not eligible for the SMART Scholarship. Additionally, applicants seeking admission through a partner institution of Staffordshire University are excluded from consideration.
- Restrictions on Concurrent Scholarships: Students who are awarded any other scholarships or discounts from Staffordshire University cannot combine these benefits. If multiple scholarships from Staffordshire University are available, only the one with the highest value will be granted.
- Ineligibility for Postgraduate Research Programs: The SMART Scholarship is not applicable for students enrolled in Postgraduate Research programs.
Applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review these eligibility criteria to ensure they understand the specific conditions under which the SMART Scholarship can be awarded.
Application Process:
The application process for the SMART Scholarship is designed for simplicity, eliminating the need for a separate application. Instead, Staffordshire University evaluates eligibility based on the applicant’s course application. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Choose a Qualifying Course
Begin by selecting a qualifying program at Staffordshire University, with options available at the Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, or London campuses. It’s advisable for prospective students to submit their course applications early to ensure they have ample time to meet all program requirements. Remember, the scholarship eligibility assessment will take place only after acceptance into a full-time program.
Step 2: Receive Your Offer and Scholarship Notification
Upon receiving an admission offer from Staffordshire University, the International Admissions team will automatically evaluate the applicant’s eligibility for the SMART Scholarship. If eligible, students will find their scholarship details included in their offer letter, with the £3,000 tuition discount applied accordingly.
Step 3: Visa Application Planning (if necessary)
For those who require a student visa to study in the UK, it is crucial to initiate the visa process immediately after receiving confirmation of both the offer and the scholarship. This ensures that students can arrive in time for Welcome Week and begin their enrollment smoothly. The scholarship discount will be reflected in the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which is necessary for the visa application.
Step 4: Arriving and Confirmation
Once students have obtained their visa and made the necessary arrangements, they are encouraged to arrive in the UK well before Welcome Week. This orientation period offers a valuable opportunity for new students to adjust to university life, connect with fellow students, and settle into their accommodations.
Additional Information and Key Dates
A notable feature of the SMART Scholarship is its flexible application timeline. Unlike many scholarships with rigid deadlines, the SMART Scholarship operates on an open deadline basis. However, it is still advisable for students to submit their applications for qualifying courses promptly to allow sufficient time for fulfilling all requirements, including visa arrangements, ensuring a timely start to the academic year.
The International Admissions team at Staffordshire University handles the evaluation of all applications from eligible students for the SMART Scholarship. Thus, once students receive their admission offer and meet the scholarship criteria, they will be informed of their scholarship status directly in the offer letter. The £3,000 discount will then be automatically deducted from their tuition fees for the first year and each eligible subsequent year of study.
Official Website:
For more information, please visit the university’s official website: https://www.staffs.ac.uk/international/your-application-journey/scholarships-fees/scholarships/smart-scholarship
