UCL Computer Science seeks third cohort of Black and mixed Black scholars

Pursuing a career in computer science can be both challenging and rewarding. With technological advancements shaping almost every aspect of our lives, the demand for skilled computer scientists continues to grow.

However, with the rising costs of education, and living it can often be difficult for some aspiring students to afford the necessary training and education.  

This is where scholarships like the UCL Computer Science Undergraduate Aspire Award come into play to support students from Black or mixed Black ethnic backgrounds who are currently underrepresented in our department. 

UCL Computer Science Aspire Award

Launched in 2022, the UCL Computer Science Undergraduate Aspire Award is a prestigious scholarship that aims to support and encourage students from Black or mixed Black communities who are passionate about computer science but face financial constraints.  

It is specifically designed to provide financial assistance, mentoring and pastoral care, enabling students to pursue their dreams of studying computer science at one of the most renowned universities in the world. The department has now offered six scholarships since 2022.  

The scholarship covers the full tuition fees for the duration of the undergraduate programme as well as an allowance to cover living and study expenses, supporting students to concentrate on their studies without the burden of financial worries. 

Apart from the financial benefits, the UCL Computer Science Undergraduate Aspire Award scholarship offers numerous other advantages. It provides an opportunity for recipients to be part of an esteemed community of computer science scholars and professionals.

This opens doors for networking with like-minded individuals who share a passion for technology and innovation. Furthermore, scholars gain access to mentorship, and exclusive events tailored to nurture their skills and knowledge in the field of computer science. 

Scholars' feedback 

An Aspire scholar from cohort two shares: 

“I could not feel more privileged and just utterly grateful to receive an award such as this. From overcoming many trials and tribulations which have since shaped the person I am today, I do put a lot of gratitude to the people who kept me focused on this academic path as it has allowed for amazing opportunities such as this scholarship. 

Having my academic achievements recognised as well as the circumstances which have led me to UCL makes this award feel special. The award is monumental in allowing me to fight for the best grades, and provides me a more level stepping stone to success. It also helps enhance my UCL experience as it allows me to immerse myself in more societies and socials with the help of the career support available. 

I hope to use this opportunity to make a stamp on my own legacy, and make a difference in not only UCL but my home community in which UCL East is based! Lastly, I aim to inspire many more aspirational individuals who are able to achieve this award as I believe the most important aspect of this scholarship is to give underrepresented students a chance to allow their academic successes to be seen and built upon!” 

Another scholar from cohort two added: 

“I am extremely grateful to have been awarded this scholarship, as it gives me the opportunity to commit full focus towards my studies and extra-curricular activities. The money lifts a massive burden from me and my family and allows me to take full advantage of what UCL and London have to offer.

While the hard work is indeed not yet finished, I feel rewarded for my efforts, and motivated because my diligence did and will continue to pay off. It is also great to be part of a network of similarly motivated computer science students and I look forward to being able to collaborate with and learn from them.” 

Find out more

UCL Computer Science is now looking for its third cohort of Aspire scholars; if you meet the eligibility criteria and will be making a UCAS application to study an undergraduate computer science programme from September 2024, register your interest now.  

Find out more about the Undergraduate Aspire Award.