Overview
Students on eligible courses at the University of Sunderland can participate in overseas study placements and work placements, traineeships or internships through funding provided by the UK Government's Turing Scheme.
The Turing Scheme is a comprehensive grant funding programme with no geographical restrictions, provided that the student mobility adheres to Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) guidance.
International activities for 2025/26 must be between 14 days and 12 months, taking place between 1 September 2025 and 31 August 2026. Funding will only be provided for periods falling within the eligible activity timeframe. In order to receive funding, the majority of the placement must occur within the grant funding dates.
Travel cost funding and supplementary living cost support may be accessible for disadvantaged students, according to Turing Scheme guidelines. Enhanced assistance is also provided for students with special educational needs or disabilities.
Qualification requirements
University of Sunderland students participating in international activities during the 2025/2026 academic year must apply for the grant funding via e:Vision and will receive communication if their application has been successful.
Students must engage in study or work activities overseas to qualify for the Turing Scheme. Remote study/work arrangements are not eligible for grant funding.
2025/26 qualifying activities
- Academic study at international higher education institutions
- Work or elective placements overseas
- International volunteer opportunities
- Global summer internship programmes
2025/26 grant rates
Turing funding contributes to living expenses based on placement duration and location. International destinations are categorised in two cost of living groups:
Complete destination listings for each category can be found on the UK government website. Based on location, duration, and eligibility, daily funding ranges from £12–23. This translates to approximately £336–644 per month.
|
Placement duration |
Group 1 |
Group 2 |
|
14 to 56 days |
£19 per day |
£17 per day |
|
57 to 365 days |
£14 per day |
£12 per day |
Widening Participation/Disadvantaged background criteria
Students meeting any of the following criteria qualify for increased daily living allowances and travel cost contributions:
- Students who are care-experienced
- Students who have caring responsibilities
- Students who are estranged (studying without the support and approval of their families)
- Students receiving Universal Credit or income-related benefits because they are financially supporting themselves, or financially supporting themselves and someone who is dependent on them and living with them, such as a child or partner
- Refugees and asylum seekers
Students with special educational needs or disabilities may access additional Turing Scheme support. Contact study.abroad@sunderland.ac.uk for detailed information.
Students from qualifying disadvantaged background criteria receive different rates:
|
Placement duration |
Group 1 |
Group 2 |
|
14 to 56 days |
£23 per day |
£21 per day |
|
57 to 365 days |
£18 per day |
£16 per day |
The University of Sunderland distributes grants through two payments:
- 80% prior to or at placement commencement, following submission of all required documents to the Study Abroad Team
- 20% upon placement completion after submitting necessary documentation
The Turing Scheme funding serves as a partial contribution toward overseas activity expenses and should not be expected to cover complete living costs.
Application process
International work experience
Contact your Programme Leader or the Study Abroad Team for details regarding international placement opportunities, application procedures, and deadlines.
Required documentation
Students confirmed as eligible for Turing Scheme grants must provide pre-travel documentation including:
- Completed grant application
- Completed form with provisional dates and country information
- Completed risk assessment
Post-placement documentation requirements include:
- Study or work placement attendance certificate (Certificate of Stay)
- Online activity completion survey
Contact
For further information or to check your eligibility, please contact study.abroad@sunderland.ac.uk.
Published: 20 August 2025