University unveils ‘Brighton Boost’ to help tackle cost of living for new students

The ‘Brighton Boost’ has been created to ensure that as many students as possible benefit from the opportunities that studying at university can provide – regardless of their background.

The University of Brighton already offers a wide range of financial support for its students, with a quarter (24%) of current students qualifying to receive an annual non-repayable cash bursary. NHS bursaries are also available for students on social work, nursing, midwifery and allied health courses.

This year, that offer has been boosted meaning eligible students could now receive support worth a total of £1,750.

The Brighton Boost 2024 includes:

• £1,250 towards halls of residence costs for students living on campus
• Up to £500 towards travel costs for local and commuter students
• £500 University of Brighton Bursary for those eligible to receive the full student loan
• Free parking on campus for commuter students with a 45-minute+ journey on public transport
• Free technology loan scheme for those in need of a laptop
• New student job hub bringing together job opportunities across the university and with local employers

Other cash bursaries on offer to Brighton students include the £1,000 Care Leavers’ Bursary and the £1,000 Estranged Students Bursary. Bursaries are all available for each year of study while at Brighton.

Professor Debra Humphris CBE, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Brighton, said:

“Going to university is a great investment, but we know the cost can be a worry. We’ve created these new support measures to help break down the barriers to higher education that some students and their families face.

“The Brighton Boost is a package of funding, support and services designed to help all our new students get off to the best possible start. It’s in addition to a range of other financial and wider support measures available to Brighton students.”

The university has also brought in a new contextual admissions policy for 2024, meaning eligible students will each receive a personalised entry offer that takes their achievements and experiences into account alongside their exam results.

Professor Humphris continued:

“I would urge anyone who wants to know more about whether university is the right choice for them to get in touch with our friendly team and hear more about what we offer here at Brighton.

“Your talent and ambition should be what guides the decisions you make in life. Regardless of your background, the University of Brighton will support you on your journey.”

The university works closely with Brighton Students’ Union to identify and coordinate financial support initiatives, including:

• £600,000 set aside for the Student Hardship Fund
• £20,000 set aside for the International Student Hardship Fund
• £50,000 annual donation to Brighton Students’ Union to support its cost-of-living initiatives including Brighton Pantry student foodbank
• £1,000 spent on new microwaves so students can bring their own food to heat, especially when studying late

The university also continues to subsidise food costs in its catering outlets, offering a wide range of value for money produce from complete hot meals to grab and go snack items. Fresh food that hasn’t sold before cafés close doesn’t go to waste, with afternoon reductions and free end-of-day giveaways.