Feature

Dow Scholarships

Making Medicine and Dentistry accessible to all

Published on 11 April 2025

Inspired by Professor and Dr. Dow’s unwavering belief that anyone should have the chance to study Medicine or Dentistry, the Dow Scholarship programme provides vital support to students experiencing financial challenges. This generosity ensures our future doctors and dentists can focus on what matters most: their education.

Each year, eligible new Medicine and Dentistry students can apply for financial support. The application process is designed to look at the whole person, not just academic performance. When assessing applications, the Trust considers a candidate’s financial need, as well as their voluntary work, hobbies, achievements, and any personal challenges they have faced.

Successful Dow Scholars receive financial support each year of their degree, which helps them to fully immerse themselves in their studies without the added pressure of financial burdens. 

Since 1998, the Trust has proudly supported around 125 Dow Scholars in the Schools of Dentistry and Medicine on their journey to becoming dentists and doctors. With each new Scholar, the Trust continues to build on a proud legacy of ensuring that talent and compassion, not financial background, shape the future of dentistry and medicine.

Hear from our Dow Scholars:

“I’m deeply grateful to the Dow Memorial Trust for their generosity and belief in students like me. Their support is not just financial—it’s a powerful reminder that our hard work and aspirations matter.”

Dow Scholarship recipient

“This award is quite simply the kindest gesture I have ever received. It is a gift that has allowed me to fulfil my ambition of becoming a doctor.”

Dow Scholarship recipient

“As a medical student at the University of Dundee, receiving the Dow Bursary Scholarship over the past two years has made a profound difference in both my academic journey and personal wellbeing. The annual support has not only eased the financial pressures that come with studying medicine, but it has also allowed me to focus more fully on my education and personal development without the added stress of part-time work or financial hardship. Beyond the financial support, I have felt genuinely supported by the Dow Scholarship. Knowing that there are people and institutions who believe in me and want to invest in my future has been incredibly motivating. It has reinforced my confidence and inspired me to keep striving for excellence in my studies and in the care, I hope to provide as a doctor one day.”

Dow Scholarship recipient

Are you interested in a Scholarship?

Visit our Scholarships page to find out more and explore current scholarship opportunities.

Applications for the Dow Scholarships are open

More ways the Trust supports our students

Beyond the Dow Scholarship programme, the Trust offers additional funding to help deserving new Medicine and Dentistry students purchase essential IT equipment and textbooks, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive. 

Recognising the importance of professional development, the Trust also offers financial support for Dow Scholars and eligible students in their later years to attend key industry conferences and undertake clinical placements, which are crucial for building their future success.

Story category Equity and inclusion