Why it matters: Nursing applications have fallen by around 30% among mature students nationally since the Covid pandemic, and the University of Suffolk says financial barriers are a key reason people choose not to enter the profession. The new bursaries aim to address that by supporting students who might otherwise be unable to study.
The details: The Transformation Ten Adult Nursing Bursaries, funded by Suffolk charitable foundation The ALBORADA Trust, will award £3,500 per student, per year for every year of their degree. The scheme has been launched to mark the university's 10th anniversary in 2026.
The bursaries are open to applicants based in Suffolk, Essex or Norfolk who are in financial need and wish to study adult nursing. Priority will be given to those from underrepresented groups, including care-leavers, mature students, and those with a declared disability.
To be considered, students must have applied through the main UCAS cycle on or before 30 June 2026 and demonstrate academic potential through Level 3 qualifications – such as A-levels or BTECs – and an interview score.
What they're saying: Professor Jenny Higham, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Suffolk, said: "This year, as we celebrate 10 years of being an independent university, it is important that we recognise the impact the University of Suffolk has made, not only creating opportunities for people of all ages to study, but also delivering projects within the community. The generous donation from The ALBORADA Trust and the creation of the Transformation Ten Adult Nursing Bursary represents a significant investment for the University and its students."
Professor Paula Kersten, Dean of the School of Health, Sciences and Society, said: "We are grateful to the ALBORADA Trust for their ongoing support and contribution to our health courses. Adult nursing is a hugely rewarding career, and we are delighted that this new bursary will provide a significant boost for those students who may otherwise be excluded from studying."
Grant Harris, Director of The ALBORADA Trust, said: "The ALBORADA Trust is delighted to continue its support of the University of Suffolk's work in meeting the healthcare needs of the local community and providing opportunities for a fulfilling career in nursing. We look forward to seeing how this transformative project unfolds."
For context: The ALBORADA Trust has been a long-term supporter of the University of Suffolk, having previously contributed £1.25m to the development of the Health and Wellbeing Building, which officially opened in 2023.
The bottom line: With nursing student numbers in decline and financial barriers putting careers out of reach for many, the Transformation Ten bursaries offer a practical route into the profession for students across the region who might otherwise never apply.
