The International Relations Office and International Student Recruitment Team hosted its annual welcome event for scholarship and sponsored students at the start of the new academic year.

The event brought together undergraduate, postgraduate taught and postgraduate research students who have recently begun their studies at the University through a wide range of scholarship and sponsorship programmes. Students had the opportunity to meet others from across the University community, learn more about the support available to them during their studies, and connect with staff from the Students' Union, Doctoral College, International Student Recruitment, Student Support and International Relations Office.

Professor Cassie Wilson, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Student Experience and Sport), welcomed students to the University and recognised the achievement represented by receiving a scholarship or sponsorship award. Noting that the University was celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, she highlighted the important contribution that scholarship and sponsored students make to Bath's international community and encouraged students to build connections across cultures, disciplines and backgrounds while making the most of the opportunities available to them during their time at Bath.

Professor Wilson said:

Receiving a scholarship or sponsorship is a significant achievement and reflects the talent, hard work and commitment of the students we welcomed today. As a truly global University, we are delighted to host students from around the world. Their presence enriches our campus, broadens perspectives, and strengthens the community of the University.

Students attending the event represented a wide range of scholarship and sponsorship programmes, including Chevening, Commonwealth, and Women in STEM scholarships, as well as from the China Scholarship Council, the CMA CGM Excellence Scholarship, HESPAL and a range of government and industry-sponsored schemes.

Shahad Al Salmani, Bank Muscat, Oman said:

It was a wonderful experience attending the event and meet undergraduate and postgraduate sponsored students from different countries. This was an opportunity to connect, learn and celebrate our diverse journeys.

Diana Larenga, Commonwealth Shared Scholar, Uganda said:

I had the privilege of attending the University of Bath's welcome event for fully funded and sponsored international students. It was a beautiful afternoon of connection, inspiration, and shared purpose. Meeting scholars from across the world, including fellow Commonwealth, Chevening, Women in STEM, and other scholarships, was truly inspiring. I left feeling grateful, energized, expanded my professional network and inspired to contribute to this remarkable global community.

The University is grateful to the many sponsors and scholarship organisations that partner with the University to support students' academic and professional ambitions. Their investment helps talented individuals to study at Bath, develop their skills and achieve their goals, while enriching our community through the diverse perspectives and experiences they bring.