What the Funding Means for Students and the University
Abertay University has been awarded more than £280,000 from the Robertson Trust as part of the Trust’s Programme Awards. The money will fund a three‑year Abertay+ Scheme that focuses on fair access, student success coaching and the removal of barriers that prevent under‑represented learners from enrolling and thriving at university.
For prospective students, the project signals a concrete commitment to widening participation. For the university, it reinforces Abertay’s reputation as a leader in equitable higher education and provides a model that other institutions can emulate.
How the Abertay+ Scheme Builds on Existing Fair‑Access Practices
Since 2017‑18, Abertay has implemented contextual admissions and minimum entry thresholds for all undergraduate programmes. These measures recognise that exam scores alone do not capture a student’s potential, especially for those from lower‑income backgrounds or with limited access to preparatory resources.
The new scheme will expand this approach by:
- Introducing a student‑success coaching model that offers personalised support throughout the first year.
- Testing compassionate admissions processes that reduce unnecessary paperwork and streamline entry.
- Providing targeted resources for students facing socioeconomic challenges, such as childcare support and flexible study options.
These initiatives are designed to increase retention, improve attainment and create pathways that are fair and compassionate.
Key Features of the Three‑Year Project
1. Student‑Success Coaching
Coaches will work with students from the moment they accept an offer, helping them navigate academic expectations, time management and personal development. Early intervention has been shown to reduce dropout rates by up to 15% in pilot studies.
2. Compassionate Admissions
The scheme will pilot a “test‑and‑demonstrate” admissions model that allows applicants to submit evidence of potential beyond grades—such as work experience, community service or personal statements that demonstrate resilience.
3. Support for Under‑represented Learners
Specialised workshops, peer‑mentoring networks and financial guidance will be offered to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they have the tools to succeed.
Impact on the Wider Higher‑Education Landscape
The Robertson Trust’s Programme Awards allocate over £2.3 million to projects that tackle poverty, trauma and inequality. Abertay’s contribution aligns with national priorities to make university education more inclusive.
By publishing its findings and best practices, the university will provide a blueprint for other institutions seeking to improve fair access. The project also dovetails with the Scottish Funding Council’s recommendations on contextual admissions, reinforcing a system that values potential as well as performance.
What Prospective Students Should Know
If you are considering Abertay, the new scheme means:
- More flexible entry requirements that consider your personal circumstances.
- Early access to coaching and support services that can help you stay on track.
- Opportunities to engage with a community that prioritises equity and inclusion.
These benefits are especially relevant for students who have faced barriers such as limited access to preparatory courses, financial constraints or caregiving responsibilities.
How to Get Involved or Learn More
Students who are interested in the Abertay+ Scheme can:
- Visit the Undergraduate Admissions page to see updated entry criteria.
- Contact the Admissions Office for personalised advice.
- Attend an open day or virtual information session to meet staff and current students.
For educators and policymakers, the project offers a case study in how targeted funding can drive systemic change. The university will publish a progress report in 2026, detailing outcomes and lessons learned.
Take the Next Step
Ready to explore how Abertay’s fair‑access initiatives can support your academic journey? Submit your application today and discover a university that values your potential beyond grades.
Have questions about the new scheme or how it might affect your admission? Schedule a free consultation with an admissions advisor to discuss your options.
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For more information on the Robertson Trust’s Programme Awards and other projects across Scotland, visit their website.
