Scholarship Programme

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Motability Operations Scholarship Programme?
We have made funds available to sponsor students the sum of £3,250 each per year for the duration of their university studies. During the programme, our students are expected to undertake an eight week summer placement during each year of their university course in either our London or Bristol offices.

Can I apply if I am already at University?
Yes.

Does it matter what course I study?
We are looking for students who have an interest in the business world (degrees such as medicine and teaching are excluded).

Do I have to participate in the eight-week summer placement programme?
We do ask that you participate in a summer placement each year that you are studying. Each placement will last a maximum of eight weeks, but we are flexible within this to ensure the programme is tailored to meet your needs.

Where is the summer placement based?
We have two offices in London and Bristol. You will be able to spend your placements in either of these locations; however we will not be able to fund any travel or accommodation costs.

Will Motability Operations guarantee me a job at the end of my university studies?
We cannot guarantee you a job at the end of your studies; however we may be able to offer a permanent job, depending on your skill set and business opportunities available, but we would not require a firm commitment from either party at the outset of the scholarship term.

What kind of commitment would you need from me if I received the scholarship?
Attendance at careers fairs, promoting the scholarship at universities or schools and your participation in our summer placement scheme.

What happens if I do not complete my course, will I have to pay the money back?
No, you will not be required to pay any money back. Your scholarship fund will close when you leave University and you will not receive anymore funding from Motability Operations. Similarly, your scholarship will be reviewed annually based on your performance at University.

What other support or advice will you give me?
You will be assigned a buddy during the scholarship and you will acquire a variety of skills during your summer placement e.g. planning and organising and IT skills.

I receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance (HRMCDLA). Can I join the Motability Scheme regardless of whether or not I am awarded the scholarship?
Yes, if you receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance you can join the Motability Scheme. To find out more, please visit www.motability.co.uk or call 0845 456 4566.

Do I have to use my scholarship fund on particular things, or can I spend the money as I wish?
Once the money has been paid to you, you are free to use the money as you wish to support your studies.

If I am on a four-year sandwich course, could I spend my placement year at Motability Operations?
Depending upon opportunities available at the time, you may be able to spend your placement year at Motability Operations.  These can be discussed with HR.

If I am successful will I receive the money in instalments or as one lump sum each year?
You will receive the money as one lump sum at the beginning of each university year. You will need to provide us with your enrolment details at the beginning of each university year for the fund to be released to your account.

Will my eligibility be means tested?
No, as this is a career and employment opportunity your eligibility will not be means tested. We will assess all applications on the information you provide and invite suitable candidates to meet with us.

I don’t receive the HRMCDLA but I am disabled can I still apply?
Yes, you can still apply.

Will you accept applications from international students?
You need to be eligible to work in the UK and be able to provide us with a valid working visa.

Can you provide the information in alternative formats?
Please contact us at scholarship2012@motabilityoperations.co.uk if you would like the information available in alternative formats such as large print or tape.

How do I apply?
Please visit the 'Apply' section of our website to begin your application. The closing date is 28 February 2012.