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Newcastle University Student Fund

Help make a life-changing impact on students at Newcastle University.

Unlocking talent

As graduation celebrations take place across campus, we are proud to recognise the incredible achievements of our newest Newcastle University graduates. 

Graduation is a moment of celebration. It represents years of hard work, determination and resilience. For students crossing the stage in King’s Hall, it marks the culmination of countless hours of study, personal growth and ambition. But behind every success story is a community of support. 

For many students, the path to graduation is not always straightforward. Alongside academic challenges, some face financial pressures that can make it difficult to fully engage with university life. From the cost of course materials and travel, to unexpected financial hardship, these barriers can affect a student's ability to make the most of their time at Newcastle. That's why your support matters. 

Harnessing potential  

As alumni and friends of Newcastle University, you understand the life-changing impact of a university education. Today's students deserve the same chance to succeed, regardless of their financial circumstances. 

Together we can help ensure that today’s talented students have access to the resources, opportunities and assistance they need to thrive. Donations provide practical support that can make a meaningful difference to a student's university experience, helping them focus on achieving their full potential. 

Meet Ariana

Ariana is preparing to begin the final year of her Physics with Astrophysics degree and knows first-hand the difference donor support can make. 

As the first person in her family to attend university, studying at Newcastle University represents the fulfilment of a long-held dream, not only for herself, but for her parents and grandparents too. 

Alongside her academic studies, Ariana has embraced university life to the fullest. She enjoys running, climbing and hiking, is currently learning German, and is an active member of the Newcastle University Karate Club, competing at events across the country. Thanks to her scholarship, Ariana has been able to make the most of these opportunities without the financial pressures that many students face. 

Student Ariana Oprea

“The financial support has relieved a lot of the stress and worry about how I would afford certain opportunities and activities. It has allowed me to enjoy a healthy balance between my studies and university life.” 

The support Ariana has received has extended beyond campus life. Her scholarship has enabled her to attend conferences and summer schools related to her degree, helping her develop her knowledge, build valuable professional connections and explore future career opportunities.

Crucially, it has allowed her to participate in these experiences without worrying about the additional costs of travel and accommodation. 

Reflecting on the impact of donor support, Ariana says: 

“Going to university was always a dream of mine, but it wouldn’t have been possible without financial support. Thank you for helping students like me achieve our dreams.” 

 As we celebrate the achievements of students graduating this summer, Ariana's story is a powerful reminder of the difference philanthropy can make.  

Stories like Ariana's are only possible because of the generosity of alumni and friends of Newcastle University. Together we can ensure more students can access the opportunities they need to thrive and succeed.

Shape the next generation of student talent 

As we celebrate this year's graduates, we also look ahead to the next generation of Newcastle University students.  

Every year, our students demonstrate extraordinary talent, determination and potential. By supporting the Newcastle University Student Fund, you can help ensure that financial circumstances do not limit what they can achieve. 

How our donors are making a difference

Donations to the Newcastle University Student Fund directly support initiatives that enrich the student experience, provide access to valuable work experience opportunities and offer vital support when unexpected challenges arise. 

Student life 

University is about more than academic achievement. It is a time for students to discover new interests, build friendships and develop skills that will stay with them long after graduation. The Newcastle University Student Fund supports projects and initiatives that enrich university life for thousands of students.  

One recent example is Newcastle Student Radio, which is run by more than 200 student volunteers. Donor support enabled the station to upgrade outdated equipment and improve its facilities, creating more opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in broadcasting, communication, recording and content creation. 

By supporting student-led initiatives like this, donors help foster a vibrant, inclusive and inspiring university community where students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom. 

Supporting sports clubs and societies

Donations to the Newcastle University Student Fund help pay for Participation Bursaries to help students make the most of volunteering opportunities, activities, clubs and sports clubs. Your generosity is ensuring these students, many from underrepresented groups, don’t miss out on a crucial aspect of university life.

In the past, the Fund has also helped sports clubs and societies on campus purchase new equipment to offer the best experience to students: from new sports wheelchairs for the University’s Wheelchair Basketball Club during its inaugural season with the British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) League, to training mats for martial arts.

Opening doors to future careers 

A university degree is only part of what employers look for. Practical experience, transferable skills and professional networks are increasingly important in helping graduates stand out in a competitive job market. 

Donor-funded internships provide students with the opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience, develop confidence and explore potential career paths before graduation. These placements help students build their CVs, strengthen their professional skills and establish important industry connections. 

 For many participants, these experiences provide a springboard into graduate employment and long-term career success. 

Join a community of Newcastle University donors today 

Every gift to the Newcastle University Student Fund helps students overcome barriers, seize opportunities and realise their potential.  

Together, we can ensure that talent, determination and potential, not financial circumstance, shape student success.