Should You Stay for a Master’s Degree? A Guide to Alumni Scholarships in the UK
If you're studying for an undergraduate degree in the UK and considering staying for a master’s program, you’ve probably come across alumni scholarships. These scholarships are commonly offered by universities as a loyalty reward for their graduates. But what exactly are alumni scholarships, how much are they worth, and should you accept one? Let’s break it down.
What Are Alumni Scholarships?
Alumni scholarships, also known as graduate scholarships, are loyalty discounts offered by UK universities to encourage their undergraduate alumni to pursue a master’s degree at the same institution. They’re typically available to both home and international students and can be claimed immediately after graduation or even years later if alumni wish to return for further study.
The good news is that alumni scholarships are typically awarded automatically. Since your university already has your personal and academic details, there’s usually no need to submit a separate application for the scholarship.
Make sure to review the eligibility criteria carefully to confirm that the course you’re interested in is covered, as some programmes—such as part-time courses or MBAs—may be excluded.
How Much Are Alumni Scholarships Worth?
Most universities offer a percentage discount on master’s tuition fees. Here’s what you can generally expect:
Common Discounts: The standard discount is 20%, but some universities offer 10%, 15%, or, in rare cases, up to 25%.
Fixed Sums: Instead of percentages, some universities provide fixed amounts, usually around £2,000–£3,000.
These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing a master’s degree, making them an attractive option for many students.
But be sure to review the terms and conditions carefully, as universities often stipulate that alumni scholarships cannot be combined with other awards or funding opportunities they offer.
Why Do UK Universities Offer Alumni Scholarships?
Alumni scholarships are more than just a token of appreciation—they serve several strategic purposes for universities:
Cost-Effective Recruitment: Recruiting new international students is expensive. Universities invest in overseas staff, travel, advertising, agent commissions, and other costs to attract students. Retaining their own graduates eliminates many of these expenses.
Retention of Talent: Academics may recognise the potential in certain students and want to encourage them to stay for postgraduate study, possibly leading to future PhD opportunities.
Boosting Rankings: Universities are assessed on the percentage of graduates who progress to work or further study through metrics like the Graduate Outcomes Survey, managed by the Higher Education Statistics Authority (HESA). Alumni returning for a master’s degree positively impact these rankings.
Should You Accept an Alumni Scholarship?
Deciding whether to take up an alumni scholarship requires careful thought. Here are some factors to consider:
When Staying Makes Sense
Familiarity and Comfort: If you’re happy with your current university environment, have strong relationships with faculty, and feel supported academically and socially, staying could be a great choice.
Career Opportunities: If your university has strong industry links or a good reputation in your chosen field, staying might boost your career prospects.
Financial Benefits: The alumni scholarship can be a significant saving, especially if the cost of moving to a new city or university outweighs the benefits.
When a Change Might Be Better
New Experiences: A change in environment can offer fresh perspectives, opportunities to network, and exposure to different teaching styles.
Ranking and Reputation: If another university is better ranked for your field of study or offers a more specialised programme, it might be worth considering.
Scholarship Opportunities Elsewhere: Explore whether other universities offer comparable or better scholarships.
Final Thoughts
Alumni scholarships can make staying at your current university for a master’s degree an enticing option. However, it’s essential to weigh the financial incentives against your personal and professional goals.
Before deciding, consider what you value most in your postgraduate experience—whether that’s continuity and familiarity or the chance to branch out and explore new horizons. Whatever you choose, ensure it aligns with your long-term aspirations.
Ready to explore your scholarship options? Head over to our UK scholarship finder to compare current opportunities with what your current university is offering.