A new fund has been launched at The Open University especially for former services personnel who have been disabled in or as a result of military service.
The fund is the first of its kind in the UK dedicated to furthering the education of the men and women who have become disabled due to their time in the forces. The study opportunity with the OU will develop their skills, knowledge and experience.
Free study and wraparound support
Up to one in five veterans are discharged due to disabilities. Once they leave military life, their transferable skills – developed in a unique environment that demands excellence, accomplishment and personal growth – can make a huge contribution both socially and economically. Higher education can be a valuable tool in carving a new career path.
The Open University’s Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund will enable disabled veterans to study for free with The Open University, and receive wraparound specialist disability support and careers advice.
The Fund can support courses of all levels depending on the applicant’s needs, from an introductory access module up to a complete undergraduate or postgraduate qualification.
Application deadline
Potential students will need to apply for the Fund by 1 August 2018 to be in with a chance of securing one of the scholarships for the 2018-2019 student intake. There are 100 undergraduate scholarships (or equivalent) worth up to £18,000 each available over the next two years. To be considered applicants will need to reserve a place on an Open University module before applying to the Fund.
The Open University’s Vice Chancellor Peter Horrocks says:
This is a tremendous opportunity for The Open University to give something back to those who have made deep personal sacrifices in the service of their country. I hope that through this scheme we can play a part in helping former members of the armed services reach their full potential through the power of education.
More details about the Fund, and how to apply can be found on the site here.
Applicants should note they will need to reserve a place on an Open University module first and then apply for the scholarship any time up to the 1st August 2018. Whilst it is not essential to complete a firm registration at this point, The Open University recommends to all applicants that they should also try to secure funding means if they still intend to study and were not to be successful in the draw. There is however, no obligation on any applicant to complete registration if they’re unsuccessful in the draw.
The Open University has 2000 active or former service personnel studying courses, examples of which can be found here on our site.
Fees for Open University modules vary significantly, but for 2018/19 the fee for a standard 30-credit module in England and Europe is £1,464, and for a standard 60-credit module it’s £2,928. Most students study 60 credits per year over six years for an honours degree.
