Bursary Scheme
Our bursary scheme has been established in recognition of the deep-rooted structural inequalities that shape access to psychotherapy training in the UK.
We are committed to inclusivity and acknowledge that this commitment must be proactive to contend with the enduring inequalities that continue to define who is seen as belonging – and who is excluded – within the psychotherapy profession.
For full details download the guidelines at the bottom of the page.
Introduction
The field of psychotherapy in the UK is still overwhelmingly white. These disparities are not accidental, but rather the result of structural barriers that have historically privileged whiteness in professional and academic spaces. In 2008, 98% of UKCP members reported being white.
In the 2023 UKCP members survey, there has been some positive change, but there is still significant under representation with only 3.7% being Asian/Asian British, 3.1%, Mixed/Multiple ethnic groups, 2.8% Black/African/Caribbean/Black British, and 1.9% being from other ethnic groups. The majority of members reported being white (75.3%) and 13.4% preferred not to say.
Training as a psychotherapist is a significant financial undertaking, one that is not supported by public student funding and spans multiple years. This reality disproportionately affects individuals from racialised and other marginalised communities (such as disabled people and their carers or people from low-income families), who are more likely to experience economic hardship due to the current and intergenerational impacts of systemic discrimination.
At AGIP, we recognise that the cost of training is not merely a financial issue, but a mechanism through which racial and other types of exclusion (such as disabilism) is maintained in our field. In response, we offer several bursaries specifically aimed at supporting individuals from under-represented and structurally marginalised backgrounds. These bursaries are one part of our ongoing efforts to confront the oppressive dynamics that shape our profession and to help cultivate a more equitable and representative therapeutic community.
Bursaries on offer
There are four bursary awards offered by AGIP.
Foundation Course
Two £500 bursaries for the Foundation course. One available to students of minority ethnic backgrounds and one offered to students based on a means tested economic assessment.
Clinical Course
Two £1,000 bursaries, for each of the three years of the course. One available to students of minority ethnic backgrounds and one offered to students based on a means tested economic assessment.
Elegibility and requirements
To be eligible, applicants must either:
1. Be part of a minority ethnic group, identified as significantly underrepresented in the mental health professions; or
2. Need financial support due to their personal economic circumstances (for example, being a single parent, low-income household, carer or similar).
For full details download the guidelines at the bottom of the page.
Application process
To apply for a bursary, you will need to go through the standard course application process first and receive an offer of a place. There is no need to accept your offer until you have received the outcome of your bursary application.
Unfortunately, not all bursary applications are successful due to the volume of applications and the funds available. The decisions of the Bursary Panel are final and not subject to appeal. The Panel is unable to provide feedback.
The payment of the bursary will be made in the form a discount on the original course fees rather than a payment to the beneficiary’s account.
Bursary Guidelines
For all details on elegibility, timelines, selection process and other important information.
