The University of Southampton is offering ten prestigious Physics and Astronomy Achievement Scholarships worth £5,000 each for undergraduate students beginning their studies in autumn 2026. These scholarships aim to support talented students pursuing physics and astronomy degrees while promoting greater inclusivity in the academic community.
Scholarship Value and Duration
Each scholarship provides:
£5,000 annual stipend paid in quarterly installments into a UK bank account
Renewable for subsequent years (up to 4 years total) subject to maintaining first-class performance (70%)
Maximum total value of £20,000 over the duration of the undergraduate program
Scholarship Distribution
The ten available scholarships are divided into two categories:
5 merit-based scholarships awarded to the top-scoring applicants
5 widening participation scholarships awarded to the next highest-ranking applicants who meet widening participation criteria
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for this scholarship, you must:
Have an offer to study on an undergraduate program in Physics and Astronomy at the University of Southampton
Be self-funding your education (international students must not be receiving any external sponsorship)
Have submitted a UCAS application by the deadline (January 31, 2026)
Be invited to and attend an Applicant Day at the University of Southampton
Application Process
The application process involves several key steps:
Submit your UCAS application to study Physics and Astronomy at Southampton University by January 31, 2026
If you receive an offer, the university will send details about the scholarship application and Applicant Days
Write and submit an essay of up to 500 words on a physics topic of your choice
Submit your essay no later than 7 days before your scheduled interview on Applicant Day
Attend your interview, where you will be asked questions about your essay
The selection process is competitive, and applications will be assessed individually and compared against all submissions received. The decision of the Head of School is final.
Important Dates
Applications for 2026 entry will open in October 2025
UCAS application deadline: January 31, 2026
Essay submission deadline: 7 days before your scheduled Applicant Day interview
Additional Information
For more information about the undergraduate Physics and Astronomy programs at Southampton University, visit their official course page:
Explore Physics Degree Programs
To understand the full terms and conditions of the scholarship, please review:
Scholarship Terms & Conditions
Contact Information
For inquiries or assistance regarding the Physics and Astronomy Achievement Scholarship, contact the admissions team at:
Email: admissionsPA@soton.ac.uk
This scholarship represents an excellent opportunity for aspiring physicists and astronomers to receive substantial financial support while studying at one of the UK's leading research universities. Mark your calendar for October 2025 when applications for the 2026 entry will open, and start preparing your physics essay to showcase your passion and knowledge in the field.
