The University of Southampton is an inclusive environment and we aim to ensure that all students have an exceptional student experience. We understand the unique challenges faced by care leavers when entering higher education and if you choose to attend the University, you can access our support package specifically designed to offer you guidance from application, through to graduation and employment.
We offer support for 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 more 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 so you can learn more about the support available, and meet current students to hear first-hand about their university experience.
We recognise the additional challenges care experienced students can face whilst studying at university and offer the following support package:
- Contextual Admissions to recognise an individual’s achievements in the context of their background and experience
- Welcome Packs containing laptops, vouchers and gym memberships for new students*
- Care Leaver Bursary of £2,000 each academic year*
- Additional financial support through bursaries and opportunity funding to broaden your educational or cultural development
- Access to 365-day accommodation in halls of residence
- A named contact within the University and Students Union
- Study support from the Academic Skills Hub
- Access to Careers and Employability Service throughout your studies and up to five years after graduation
- Graduation support to cover the cost of robes, photography and Grad Ball ticket.
At the University of Southampton, we provide advice and offer support to estranged young people from application to graduation, and are proud to have taken the Stand Alone Legacy Pledge. Going to university can be a daunting experience for many individuals and we understand the hurdles independent students may face. We want to make your transition to university as smooth as possible and ensure you have access to all the support you might need, to give you the best chance to succeed, and therefore offer a comprehensive package of support:
- Welcome Packs containing vouchers and/or gym memberships for new students*
- Estranged Students bursary of £2,000 each academic year of your undergraduate course, and/or for the first year of your postgraduate course*
- Additional financial support through bursaries and opportunity funding to broaden your educational or cultural development
- Access to 365-day accommodation in halls of residence
- A named contact within the University and Students Union
- Study support from the Academic Skills Hub
- Access to Careers and Employability Service throughout your studies and up to five years after graduation
- Graduation support to cover the cost of robes, photography and Grad Ball ticket.
*Details correct at time of writing and all subject to students meeting eligibility criteria.
For further information, please visit our website and if you have any questions, please contact Emma Woozeer, Access Manager.
You can also find out about our full offer on our Propel page