The initiative will provide funding to an individual at Loughborough University throughout the duration of their studies, as well as gain access to a variety of training, work and personal development opportunities.
Each scholar student will receive £10,000 per academic year - £8,500 will be available to spend on the Santander Aspire webstore or withdrawn as cash, with the other £1,500 used to fund activities that build skills or enhance their employability (totalling £30,000 over three years). Please note a maximum of £2,000 can be spent/withdrawn each month as part of the Programme.
Scholars will also receive support and guidance from a designated Santander Relationship Manager, in addition to invitations to attend various events and activities that will open doors to networking with potential employers and broadening their student experience more generally.
The scheme is open to full-time students who are due to complete their undergraduate studies in 2025 and are currently in the first year of their degree, and fall under one or more of the following underrepresented groups in higher education:
1. Students from areas of low higher education participation, low household income or low socioeconomic status
2. Black, Asian and minority ethnic students
3. Mature students
4. Disabled students
5. Care experienced students
6. Carers
7. Students estranged from their families
8. Students from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities
9. Refugees
10. Students from military families
Applications close on 31 January 2023 and the results will be announced on 28 February 2023. Those who are interested in applying for the scheme are strongly encouraged to read the terms and conditions, which state further information about expectations required of those who are successful, such as completing surveys and attending ‘Welcome’ events.