Thinking about taking the next step in your career? The Empower Bursary could help you make it happen.
The Empower team is delighted to announce that applications are now open for the Empower Bursary, designed to help eligible University of Kent students access valuable work experience and take the next step towards their future careers.
What’s changed this year?
The eligibility criteria have been updated, meaning the Empower Bursary is now open to:
- Current final-year undergraduate University of Kent students classed as IMD Quintile 1*
- All students in receipt of the Kent Financial Support Package
- All Kent Ambition Scholars
You don’t need to navigate the application process alone. The Empower team will identify eligible students and contact them directly by email with further information.
Real students. Real opportunities. Real impact.
Don’t just take our word for it. Previous bursary recipients have shared how the funding helped them overcome financial barriers, make the most of work experience and take important steps towards their future careers.
“The Empower Bursary meant a lot to me… It reduced my financial stress and allowed me to fully focus on my placement and make the most of the opportunity.”
For some students, accessing work experience can involve additional challenges. The bursary can help make opportunities more accessible by easing the financial pressures that might otherwise stand in the way.
“Being disabled and looking for work experience brings a lot of extra logistics, planning, and financial consideration. Being able to receive the bursary removes one of these barriers: being able to afford travel.”
For students balancing study, work and other responsibilities, financial support can also provide greater flexibility to invest in their future.
“As a care leaver, managing finances while studying and working full time can be challenging… having this funding has made a real difference in being able to invest in my career.”
And for some recipients, the impact has continued well beyond their placement.
“It helped me land my first full time role. I’m extremely grateful to have been chosen and to have received the bursary.”
Could the Empower Bursary help you?
If you’re a current final-year undergraduate student at the University of Kent and meet one of the eligibility criteria, keep an eye on your university email inbox. The Empower team will be contacting eligible students directly with information about the bursary and how to apply.
The Empower Bursary could help you access valuable experience, build your confidence and take your next step towards a rewarding career.
¹ Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD): What Is a Quintile of Deprivation? – IMD 2025 Explainer