Social work bursary

Applications for this bursary are currently closed. The information is correct as of 22 October 2025. It may change with the publication of the Social Work Bursary and Education Support Grant information pack for 2026/27. 

Bursaries for UK students living in England who are studying courses in social work, supplied by the NHS Business Services Authority (BSA) on behalf of the Department of Health.

This bursary is for students on approved social work courses, to help with living costs and tuition fees.

The bursary amount is calculated by the NHS bursary team. More information is available at the NHS BSA website.

All bursary eligible students are also eligible for a placement travel allowance (PTA) of up to £862.50. Even if students are not allocated a capped bursary place, they may still receive PTA.

Eligibility

You can apply if you:

  • are studying MSc Social Work
  • have been living in the UK for at least three years before the start of the course.
  • are resident in England on the day the course starts.

Read the full eligibility criteria.

Students who are ordinarily resident in Wales but choose to study in England are not eligible for any bursary support.

How to apply

You are encouraged to apply by 31 August 2026 to guarantee payment for September 2026.

There are no exceptions for late applications and all supporting evidence must be provided. We cannot offer support with this and students should contact NHSBSA if they have questions.

Deadline

Application deadline: 31 October 2026.

You are encouraged to apply by 31 August to guarantee payment for September 2026.