In response to rising tuition fees, April McMahon, Vice President for Teaching and Learning, and current Union Affairs Officer Lexie Baynes announced more financial aid for low-income students.
From September 2025, the residual household income thresholds for Manchester Bursary eligibility are:
- Full support for households earning under £31,000 (previously £25,000).
- Partial support for households earning £31,001–£43,000 (previously £25,001–£35,000).
Students eligible for full support can receive an annual cash bursary of £2,600. while students eligible for partial support can receive up to £1,300.
The bursaries are paid in three instalments: 25% in December, 50% in February and 25% in April.
Over 1,000 more students will be able to qualify for financial aid, a 20% increase.
The University of Manchester has recognised the “financial challenges” and limited access to economic support that hinder students from fully engaging in their university experience.
The bursary grants aim to decrease the need for paid work, allowing students more time for academics and extracurricular activities.
Duncan Ivison, the President and Vice-Chancellor of the University said: “Our goal is to make Manchester accessible to all, so that talent and ambition, not finances, determine admission to our institution”.
Lexie Baynes, the Union Affairs Officer, voiced support for the change, saying: “I’m very pleased and supportive of this necessary change, which will help break down financial barriers for students in not only accessing University, but succeeding while they’re here too”.
She credited her predecessor, Hannah Mortimer, for advocating the uplift and praised the University-Students’ Union collaboration in supporting student success.
Professor April McMahon highlighted the University’s commitment to supporting students by increasing household income thresholds, which have remained unchanged since 2008.
This step seeks to address the impact of inflation and rising costs.
Students should contact the university if they believe they are eligible for the Manchester Bursary after performing a household income assessment.
The University of Manchester said it aims to “support students in having the best possible University experience”, preparing students for their jobs and futures.
