Funds and grants: A guide for university students

Rent, insurance, and mobile subscriptions are just a few of the regular expenses that need to be paid every month. And although the student grant is a nice sum of money that arrives each month, it is far from enough to cover all expenses. Therefore, studying abroad, for instance, might seem out of reach. But with funds and grants, those dreams can come within reach.

A fund is an institution that has capital to support specific purposes. Most funds aim to support research, education, cultural projects, or social causes. Grants are the financial resources that the funds distribute to applicants who meet the fund’s specific requirements. So, the fund is the overarching institution that holds the money, and the grant is the actual money you can get your hands on.

For university students, grants from funds can be a fantastic way to get financial support for various needs, such as study abroad programs, research projects, purchasing textbooks, or just general financial challenges

There are many different types of funds and grants that may be relevant to you as a student. Some are very broad and generally support students, while others are very specific and may have particular requirements such as residence, field of study, gender, or social conditions. For students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), there are a number of funds and grants that specifically support students with academic interests in these areas. Below are some of the most important funds and grants you might consider applying for as a STEM student:

Applying for funds and grants requires effort, but it can definitely be worth it. Here are some steps you can follow to get started:

1. Do thorough research: There are several websites where you can find lists of funds and grants. Examples include Legatbogen.dk or your educational institution’s website, which often has lists of relevant funds for students.
2. Read the requirements carefully: It is important to ensure that you meet the fund’s requirements before applying. Many funds have specific criteria such as field of study, residence, or academic level. Sending applications to funds where you do not meet the requirements is a waste of time.
3. Write a good application: When applying for a grant, it is important to write a personal and precise application. You should explain why you are applying, how you will use the funds, and create a budget that ideally shows you are also contributing some money to the project. Remember to tailor your application to each fund, so it is clear that you have understood the fund’s purpose and requirements.
4. Be patient and organised: There are often many applicants for grants, so it can take time to get a response, and you will likely receive rejections for some of your applications. Make sure to keep track of the funds you have applied for and their deadlines, so you can follow up or reapply if you are rejected.

Applying for funds and grants can seem overwhelming at first, but it can be a crucial help during your studies. Set aside time to research, write personal applications, and be persistent. The more time and energy you put into your application process, the greater your chances of getting the support that can ease your finances and create better conditions for your studies.

And remember, most people get a rejection. It doesn’t mean the application was bad, but perhaps just that there were a few other applicants this round who matched the fund’s values perfectly. So try again in the next application round.

Good luck with your fund application!