Scholarships Rising Star Scholarships

Our Rising Star Scholarships are designed to support and empower talented individuals under the age of 21, with a focus on those from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds. These scholarships celebrate creativity across a range of disciplines – from journalism and creative writing to music production, film and television – and aim to remove barriers for young people aspiring to careers in the creative industries.

Each scholarship is named in honour of a trailblazing figure who has made a mark in their field. By recognising their achievements, we hope to inspire the next generation to pursue their ambitions and realise their potential.

Notable people and the associated scholarships

• Afua Hirsch, writer and broadcaster – Journalism, Film and Television Studies (including foundation year) BA (Hons)
• Ayanna Witter-Johnson, composer and singer/songwriter – Music Technology and Production (including foundation year) BSc (Hons)
• Dan Whitlam, poet and rapper – Creative Writing and English Literature BA (Hons)
• Hak Baker, musician – Music Business and Events Management (including foundation year) BA (Hons)
• Jordss, DJ and founder of Girls Can't DJ – Music Technology and Production (including foundation year) BSc (Hons)
• Kathy Burke – Film and Television Studies BA (Hons)

Scholarship benefits

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Mentorship from university faculty and industry professionals
• Access to networking opportunities, internships, and professional development 

Eligibility criteria 

To be eligible for a Rising Star Scholarship, applicants must: 

• Be between the age of 18-21 at the time of application 
• Have a conditional or unconditional offer for entry to London Metropolitan University for a first full-time undergraduate degree, and due to commence study in September 2026.
• Be a UK student and have been assessed for fee status as 'home'
• Have applied for the full Maintenance Loan and have confirmation from Student Finance England that your household meets the eligibility criteria for the maximum award
  

There's an emphasis on applicants from underrepresented backgrounds who demonstrate exceptional potential.

How to apply  

You will need to submit a 250-300-word personal statement addressing the following: 

• Your reasons for choosing this course
• Your long-term goals and how receiving this scholarship will support you in achieving them
• A reference from school or an employer
• Supplementary material such as a portfolio, audition or interview (as appropriate)

Submit your personal statement to vco@londonmet.ac.uk