Purpose of the fund

The Dean’s Fund for Hardship is a vital source of financial support for undergraduate and postgraduate students across the Faculty of Engineering who are experiencing unforeseen financial difficulties. The fund is designed to help students remain engaged with their studies during periods of hardship, ensuring that temporary financial stress does not become a barrier to academic success. 

This fund reflects the Faculty’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and student wellbeing. It is not a substitute for planned financial provision, but rather a safety net for students who encounter unexpected challenges. Awards are made to assist with short-term needs and are assessed based on the severity of the hardship and the impact on the student’s ability to continue their studies. 

Applying for funds

Applications to the Dean’s Fund must be submitted by a member of departmental staff, typically a Senior Tutor, Student Wellbeing Adviser, or a nominated colleague, on behalf of the student. 

Application schedule

The Faculty runs three open calls for applications each academic year (details will be sent to relevant department staff): 

Autumn Call 

  • Call open: Monday 10 November 2025 – Monday 24 November 2025
  • Outcomes to departments: Week commencing Monday 1st December 2025 

Spring Call 

  • Call open: Monday 16 February 2026 – Monday 2 March 2026
  • Outcomes to departments: Week commencing Monday 9th March 2026 

Summer Call (for continuing students only) 

  • Call open: Monday 11 May 2026 – Monday 25 May 2026
  • Outcomes to departments: Week commencing Monday 1 June 2026 

Application guidance

  • Tuition fees and visa costs are not eligible for support from the Dean’s Fund.
  • Awards typically range from £200 to £1,500, depending on the level of need.
  • Applications for amounts above £1,500 must be discussed in advance with Lorraine Craig.
  • The fund is open to current UG, PGT, and PGR students, both Home and International. 

Urgent cases

Nominations for urgent cases of hardship outside of the scheduled calls can be submitted via this form. These will be considered within 3 working days, wherever possible. Please note that urgent applications must be submitted by a member of staff. Any application received from a student will be directed to the Faculty Senior Tutor and Faculty Wellbeing Lead. 

Contact and support

For queries about the nomination process, please contact the FoE Education Team.

For urgent or sensitive matters, please contact: 

Lorraine Craig, Faculty Senior Tutor 

Lorraine Bayfield, Faculty Education and Quality Assurance Manager