School of Biological Sciences Taught Postgraduate Bursaries

The University of Edinburgh – Comprehensive Guide for Master’s Applicants

Introduction

The University of Edinburgh is one of the world’s leading institutions for biological and life sciences, consistently ranked among the top universities globally. Through its School of Biological Sciences, the University offers a wide range of taught postgraduate (Master’s) programmes designed to prepare students for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, environmental science, policy, and industry.

Recognising that postgraduate education can be financially demanding, the University provides School of Biological Sciences Taught Postgraduate Bursaries to support eligible students. These bursaries aim to reduce financial barriers and enable talented students—both from the UK and overseas—to pursue advanced study in biological sciences.

This article provides a complete, Edinburgh-specific guide to these bursaries, covering eligibility, funding value, application processes, selection criteria, and practical tips for success.

Overview of the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Edinburgh

The School of Biological Sciences is part of the College of Science and Engineering and is one of the largest and most diverse biological science schools in the UK. It brings together teaching and research across a wide range of disciplines, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and world-class academics.

Key Research and Teaching Areas

• Molecular and Cellular Biology

• Genetics and Genomics

• Biochemistry

• Microbiology and Infection Biology

• Biotechnology and Synthetic Biology

• Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation

• Environmental and Climate Biology

• Plant and Animal Sciences

• Bioinformatics and Systems Biology

• Neuroscience and Developmental Biology

The School delivers numerous taught postgraduate programmes, typically lasting one academic year (12 months).

What Are the School of Biological Sciences Taught Postgraduate Bursaries?

The School of Biological Sciences Taught Postgraduate Bursaries are school-level financial awards provided by the University of Edinburgh to students enrolling in eligible taught Master’s programmes within the School.

These bursaries are designed to:

• Support students who demonstrate financial need

• Reward strong academic performance

• Encourage participation from a diverse range of backgrounds

• Help students successfully commence and complete their postgraduate studies

They are partial funding awards, meaning they contribute toward costs but do not usually cover full tuition and living expenses.

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility criteria may vary slightly from year to year, but the following requirements generally apply.

1. Programme Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Apply for and receive an offer (conditional or unconditional) to study a taught postgraduate programme within the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Edinburgh.

2. Academic Requirements

• A strong undergraduate degree (typically equivalent to a UK First Class or Upper Second Class Honours) in:

  • Biological sciences

  • Biomedical sciences

  • Environmental sciences

  • Or a closely related discipline

3. Fee Status

Depending on the specific bursary:

• Some awards are open to UK (Home) students

• Some are open to International students

• Others may be available to both Home and International applicants

4. Financial Need

• Many of these bursaries prioritise students who can demonstrate genuine financial need

• Applicants may be required to submit a personal statement outlining their financial circumstances

5. New Students

• These bursaries are generally available to newly admitted students, not continuing postgraduate students.

What Do the Bursaries Cover?

The School of Biological Sciences Taught Postgraduate Bursaries provide partial financial support.

Typical Value

While the exact amount varies annually, awards usually fall within the range of:

• £1,000 to £5,000, depending on:

  • Fee status (Home or International)

  • Available funding

  • Number of successful applicants

Forms of Support

• Tuition fee reduction (deducted directly from fees), or

• Cash bursary paid to the student to help with living costs

What Is Not Usually Covered

• Full tuition fees

• Accommodation costs in full

• Visa fees or immigration-related costs

• Research expenses beyond taught coursework

Duration of the Bursary

• The bursary is typically valid for one academic year only

• Most taught Master’s programmes in the School of Biological Sciences last 12 months

• The award is not renewable, unless explicitly stated

How Are Applicants Selected?

Applications are assessed competitively by the School or College.

Key Selection Criteria

1. Academic Merit

• Undergraduate academic performance

• Relevance of prior study to the chosen programme

• Evidence of academic potential in biological sciences

2. Financial Need

• Personal and financial circumstances

• Ability to fund postgraduate study without support

3. Motivation and Career Goals

• Clarity of academic and professional objectives

• Commitment to a career in biological or life sciences

• How the bursary will enable academic success

How to Apply for the Bursary

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Apply for Your Master’s Programme

   • Submit an application to an eligible taught postgraduate programme within the School of Biological Sciences.

   • You must usually hold an offer before applying for the bursary.

2. Check the University of Edinburgh Scholarships Page

   • The bursary is normally listed under:

     • School of Biological Sciences funding

     • College of Science and Engineering scholarships

     • Postgraduate funding opportunities

3. Complete the Online Bursary Application

   • Required information may include:

     • Personal details

     • Programme of study

     • Academic background

     • Financial circumstances

     • Supporting personal statement

4. Submit Before the Deadline

   • Deadlines are typically several months before programme start dates

   • Late applications are usually not considered

5. Await Outcome

   • Successful applicants are notified by email

   • Awards are usually confirmed after acceptance of the programme offer

Automatic vs Application-Based Awards

Application-Based Bursaries

• Require a separate application

• Consider financial need and motivation

• Competitive

Automatic Awards

• Some fee reductions or merit-based awards may be applied automatically

• Based on academic excellence or offer type

• No additional application required

Can This Bursary Be Combined with Other Funding?

In many cases, yes.

Students may combine this bursary with:

• University of Edinburgh central scholarships

• External scholarships

• Government sponsorships

• Personal or family funding

However:

• Total funding may be capped

• All additional funding must usually be declared

Difference Between This Bursary and Other Funding Types

Tips for a Strong Bursary Application

1. Demonstrate Real Financial Need

   • Be honest and specific about your circumstances

2. Link Funding to Impact

   • Explain how the bursary will enable you to enrol and succeed

3. Highlight Academic Commitment

   • Emphasise your interest and achievements in biological sciences

4. Show Clear Career Direction

   • Connect your Master’s degree to long-term goals

5. Apply Early

   • Funding is limited and competitive

Why These Bursaries Matter

The School of Biological Sciences Taught Postgraduate Bursaries play a vital role in:

• Increasing access to world-class postgraduate education

• Supporting students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds

• Developing future scientists, researchers, and professionals

• Strengthening global capacity in health, environment, and biotechnology

They help ensure that financial constraints do not limit academic potential.

Final Thoughts

The School of Biological Sciences Taught Postgraduate Bursaries at the University of Edinburgh are valuable funding opportunities for students pursuing Master’s degrees in life and biological sciences. While they may not fully fund postgraduate study, they significantly reduce financial pressure and make studying at one of the world’s leading universities more accessible.

If you are considering a taught postgraduate programme in biological sciences at Edinburgh, you should:

• Apply early for admission

• Monitor scholarship and bursary deadlines closely

• Apply for multiple funding opportunities

• Prepare a strong, well-structured bursary application