Student bursaries

We are committed to promoting education in tax around the world, not just in the UK. Awarded by the Worshipful Company of Tax Advisers (WCTA), a bursary is awarded to people from the most disadvantaged backgrounds who are not able to meet the financial cost of the ADIT qualification.

Are you eligible? 

The WCTA bursary is awarded annually to the three most deserving candidates. You can apply for the bursary if you meet all of the following criteria:

  • A permanent resident, studying outside the UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man
  • Some professional or academic background in a relevant discipline
  • A genuine need for financial assistance in your ADIT studies

Circumstances under which you may apply for financial assistance include:

  • General financial hardship resulting in a lack of affordable means to pay for your studies
  • Suffering from a health condition that increases your living costs or prevents you from working full-time
  • Caring for a relative
  • An emergency situation affecting your ability to pay for the remainder of your fees, such as loss of job or unexpected medical bills

This list is not intended to be exhaustive, and other circumstances may be considered.

How students benefit

The three successful candidates will each be awarded £1,500 over the course of one year to cover costs necessary for studying for the ADIT qualification.

The bursary can be used to cover:

  • Student registration fee
  • Exam entry fees
  • Tuition fees
  • Books and other relevant materials

In addition to the bursary funding from the WCTA, discounts on ADIT tuition fees are offered by the following course providers for up to five bursary applicants:

So even if you are not one of the three successful candidates for the bursary, you may still benefit from this discount offer.

To find out if you are eligible to apply for the bursary, or for more information, view the WCTA bursary rules

For more guidance and how to apply

How to apply

If you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to submit your application.

You will need to complete the application form, and include a written explanation of why you deserve the bursary, including:

  • A general explanation of your financial position
  • How the bursary will make a positive contribution to your career
  • How you intend to use the ADIT qualification to benefit wider society

For more information, you can read the WCTA bursary rules.

Closing date

Applications for 2025 must be submitted by 31 October 2024.

What happens next?

  • Acknowledging your application
    You will be sent an email acknowledging your application after it has been received. If your application is not eligible because you did not meet the criteria listed, you will also be notified.
  • Selection process
    Eligible applications will be reviewed by the relevant Committee, after the closing date has passed.
  • Successful applicant notification
    You will be notified via email within three months of the closing date, whether your application was successful or not.

About the WCTA

The Worshipful Company of Tax Advisers (WCTA) is a City of London Livery Company whose objectives are primarily to advance the standing and profession of tax advisers but also include the promotion of tax education.