Officer Bursaries

Are you studying at university, or are you thinking about going to university? Would you like your future employer to support you and meet the costs of studying?

Apply as a student to be an Army Officer, and we could give you financial support whilst you study at university. Once you graduate, you will begin your training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

To be considered for a Bursary, you will need to apply to be an Officer before your final year at university. The Army Officer selection process can take up to 12 months, so it is best to apply as early as possible to get through the Army Officer Selection Board – the latest you can apply is December in your final year of study.

Once you have been selected as an Army Officer, you will then be considered for a Bursary. As a successful candidate, you will have your payments split across your remaining years of study or as a lump sum in your final year.

There are several different types of Army Bursaries that could help support you financially while you study.

Types of Bursaries

Who can apply?

Students with at least ABB at A Level and on track for at least a 2:1 degree. You'll need to pass the Army Officer Selection Board and join the University Officer Training Corps. Apply by the last Friday in October.

How much is awarded?

The amount offered is spread across your university years:

If awarded an Enhanced Bursary before or during your first year, you will get £6,000 in years 1-3 and a further £6,000 when you commission.
If you are awarded an Enhanced Bursary in your second year of university, you will receive £9,000 in years 2 and 3, and £6,000 when you commission.
If you are awarded an Enhanced Bursary in your third year of university, you will receive £9,000 and a further £6,000 when you commission”.

What next?

As an Enhanced Bursar, you may join any part of the British Army as an Officer.

What is it?

The Defence STEM Undergraduate Sponsorship (DSUS) Scheme offers an opportunity for STEM Undergraduates interested in a future in the Army as Engineers or Technical Officers. Successful applicants will be sponsored through 3 years of university study.

Who can apply?

Open to Officer candidates studying, or with at least a conditional offer, for an Army-endorsed STEM degree. You’ll need to pass the Army Officer Selection Board. You will also have the opportunity to join the University Officer Training Corps. Apply at any point in the year.

How much is awarded?

If successful, you will receive up to £42,750, comprising an annual bursary of £5,000 plus up to £9,250 in tuition fees for each of three years at university.
If you apply in your final year you will receive £24,250, which includes £9250 of fees and a £15,000 bursary.

What next?

After university you’ll attend the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, and will be encouraged to serve in one of the following STEM corps:
Royal Engineers,
Royal Signals,
Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers,
Royal Logistic Corps,
Intelligence Corps,
Royal Artillery,
Army Air Corps, and the
Adjutant General’s Corps (Royal Military Police; Staff and Personnel Support; and Education and Training Services).

If you're studying for one of the following professions, the Army can offer financial assistance and support while you complete your qualifications.

For full details on each of the awards and criteria, visit the role page:

Medicine (up to £75,000)
Dentistry (up to £75,000)
Veterinary (up to £60,000)
Pharmacy (up to £51,000)
Nursing (adult and mental health) (up to £42,000)

In all cases, you'll need to pass the Army Officer Selection Board and will be expected to serve in the Army for at least 6 years after you graduate.

How to apply for a medical bursary?

Apply for a Medical Bursary while you are still at university.
If studying a 4 year Degree please apply in your first year of studies by the end of January.
If studying a 5 year Degree please apply in your second year of studies by the end of January.
You must pass the Army Officer Selection Board for professionally qualified officers and a specialist selection board.
You should be attending the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst before your 37th birthday.

Scholarships