King's College London

The Raheem Sterling Foundation, in partnership with King’s College London and the University of Manchester, is supporting 7 students at each university with scholarships over the next three years. Applications are now open for degree programmes commencing in 2024/25.

The scholarship is open to students from Black, African and Caribbean heritage from socio-economically under-represented backgrounds, in the Greater London region and aims to help close the attainment gap for Black British Students, increase social mobility, and support equal access to higher education.

With applications now open for the second year, we interviewed students currently on the scholarship programme here at King’s about how the scholarship has supported them and how to apply.

How has being a recipient of the RSF scholarship helped you in your studies?

“It has helped me massively by taking away my financial burdens.” The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation expenses, and other essential educational costs, removing financial barriers that may hinder these students’ academic journeys. “Having the financial means for transport, clothes, food and other expenses is costly, especially in London. I had more time to focus on my studies, very useful in busy exam periods and I even had the time to resume hobbies like painting and reading which I hadn't done for some time.”

This is also a view taken by another student who said: 

How did you find out about the scholarship?

Both applicants found out about the scholarship through TikTok, “a very unusual way” to find out. One applicant said: “I was scrolling through, and a BBC video came on stating that Raheem was starting this scholarship for black students and to apply.”

How did you feel when you found out your application was successful?

“Honestly, I didn't even believe it at first. I was so incredibly happy but also slightly nervous as I didn't know what to expect.”

What would you say to anybody thinking of applying for the scholarship?

"Go for it! you have nothing to lose. Remember, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take and opportunities like this are rare."

There are even developmental opportunities. “The people from the foundation are so nice and keep in touch throughout your studies, nothing too invasive. There are few events that go on throughout the year that you get invited to which is a great chance to network and boost your CV. Everything is always done to your agreement and there is no obligation on your part.”

Now you’re nearly heading into your second year of university, what advice would you give to first years?

One said: “It takes time to settle into university, transitioning to university can feel a bit overwhelming and it’s normal to feel lost at first. However, surround yourself with good people that can push you through those hard times at university, encourage you, keep you entertained and support you.”

Another said: “You'll gain a lot of experience and the year goes by very quickly. Try new things out and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone!”

How are you finding your studies so far? What are you looking forward to next year?

“I'm really happy with my course and it starts to get more personalised next year as I have the option to pick my own modules. I'm looking forward to more lab work and gaining more experience in my field.”

Research shows in 2021/22, less than 5% of all UK students starting undergraduate degrees were Black. The aim of Raheem Sterling Foundation scholarships is to help close the attainment gap for Black British Students, increase social mobility, and support equal access to higher education. If eligible, you can apply here.

These scholarships sit alongside a range of funding opportunities at King’s to support students from under-represented groups in higher education, including students from lower-economic backgrounds and care-leavers.