Knowledge Economy Skills Scholarships (KESS) is a pan-Wales higher level skills initiative led by Bangor University on behalf of the HE sector in Wales. It is part funded by the Welsh Government’s European Social Fund (ESF) convergence programme for West Wales and the Valleys, and the Welsh Government's ESF programme for East Wales.
The KESS programme has specific scholarships available where the participant must live in West Wales and the Valleys or East Wales. Please see 'Information Pack' for an East vs West Wales Valleys residence map.
The Education (Postgraduate Doctoral Degree Loans) (Wales) Regulations 2018 makes it clear that a KESS student is not eligible for a Postgraduate Doctoral Degree loan, because they will be in receipt of KESS 2 support.
For reference, please refer to the hyperlink above, specifically clause (3) (m): “A person (“A”) is not an eligible student if — there has been bestowed on or paid to A, in relation to the course, any allowance, bursary or award made under the KESS 2 Scheme.”
It is the responsibility of KESS applicants (and appointed KESS students) to ensure they comply with these regulations.
It is a condition of eligibility for KESS2 funding that you have not applied for, nor are intending to apply for, a Doctoral or research Masters Loan.
There are a number of bursaries, scholarships and funding options available to PGR students. Please visit the links below for more financial support information:
Postgraduate Fees and Funding (including Masters and Doctoral Loans)
