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In 2015 the ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ established a new Student Support Fund to help students who find themselves in unexpected financial difficulty. This may be the result of personal or family health issues, unforeseen economic factors, or an unavoidable need to extend study time. Whatever the cause, we want to do everything we can to help our students continue and complete their studies, without the burden of financial anxieties.

In 2023/24 academic year:

· 52 grants were made (31 undergraduates and 21 graduates)

· £60,440 was awarded in total

· Average grant of £1,200 with a range of £500 to £1,500

We received a huge amount of feedback from awardees. Here is what some of them had to say:

'I am very grateful for the support I received from the Student Support Fund in the last year of my DPhil. Unlike many other students, it is a great chance to be part of a support network at ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ that not only regularly inquires into one's situation but provides concrete help where needed. I'd like to thank all the Old Members that contribute to keeping this support network live throughout the years.' - DPhil Philosophy student

'Receiving this financial assistance will significantly alleviate a financial burden and allow me to the space to focus on my doctoral studies in the field of Education. As with many social science projects, my research into improving access and support for students in post-secondary education is underfunded at the research council level, yet your support allows me to continue this work at one of the best universities in the world.' - DPhil Education student

'Thanks to your kindness I will be able to enjoy the rest of this academic year without the financial stress and pressures that previously existed for me. Coming from a single parent household with little financial support, I was unsure exactly how my time at university would be viable, but I no longer feel this way. Having benefitted from the fund for the duration of my degree, I can certainly say that my time at ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ has been made so much better. My appreciation is insurmountable!' - Undergraduate Jurisprudence student

'Thank you so much for the very generous grant given by the Student Support Fund which will act as a massive financial support this year. In particular, it will enable me to take part in a fieldwork project as part of my degree that has a large financial cost associated with it, that I may not have been able to participate in otherwise.' - Undergraduate Biology student

Student Sporting and Cultural Awards

Ensuring ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ students receive a rich and balanced education is of great importance. Extra-curricular activities play a key part in this, but they can be costly. The Sporting and Cultural Awards enable students to apply for grants towards these costs, and last year £35,000 of grants were awarded to ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ students for this purpose.

'Your donation towards this has made it possible for me to go to classes without having to worry about the cost. Coming from a low-income background has given me many struggles, so I really appreciate the support that comes from Oxford, particularly towards extra-curriculars. I believe that they are as important as the course itself, and gives me a place of refuge from the academic stress that presents itself at university.' Bethany, JCR

'Without this award, I would not have been able to compete with Women's First Team Rowing in external regattas on the Thames this term, which is something that I will always remember.' Sky, JCR

'I greatly appreciate the financial support that I have been given. My extracurricular activities have been a welcome break from my academic work and something that I look forward to continuing over the course of my studies.' Juliet, JCR

'I really appreciate the support you've given me, as dance is important to my wellbeing and happiness here at Oxford. We've trained extremely hard for this, and want to bring joy to each other and those who watch us. I hope you find the same joy in helping students like me, as we really appreciate it!'  Tina, JCR

To make a donation, please visit our giving pages. If you have any questions about making a gift, please contact the Development Office.