“This Award has been phenomenal, and has made a huge difference in my first year at University. Beyond financial support, the exposure to the industry and professional development opportunities have provided me with a clearer pathway into the electronics/semiconductor industry.”

Semiconductor Talent Award-holder 2025

The Semiconductor Talent Award 2026 is a Government funded initiative to address underrepresentation and improve social mobility in the UK Semiconductor Industry, to ensure that more capable and motivated students have the opportunity to enter this exciting and growing field.

For 2026/27, a total of 400 awards will be made, 300 to individuals starting an Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) degree (or a closely related subject) and a further 100 Awards to individuals starting Computer Science, Materials Science or Physics degrees. To be eligible, you must be studying at a UKESF Partner University starting in September/October 2026. Read our Application Guide for the full eligibility criteria.

Apply here

Please check your eligibility and read the Application Guide before you apply. 

Deadline: 22:00 on 30 June 2026

Semiconductor Talent Award Benefits:

  • A £4,000 annual scholarship to support your studies
  • An Induction Event, giving you the opportunity to celebrate with your peers, learn about the sector and meet industry representatives
  • Industry insight and professional development webinars
  • An online learning platform, that will host exclusive and curated sector-specific and skills content
  • In-person events, regional industry engagement and visits
  • Access to an experienced industry mentor

It is anticipated that the Award will last up to 3 years, terms and conditions apply.

Eligibility

You must:

  1. Be classified as a Home Student, or be a British National
  2. Be starting a course in September/October 2026 at a UKESF Partner University
  3. Have a firm UCAS offer to study either:
    1. Electronics, Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE), or a related degree course
    2. Computer Science
    3. Materials Science
    4. Physics

If you meet our eligibility criteria, visit our Application Guide and FAQ’s to apply

Application Guide and Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to apply? Start your application here

The UK Semiconductor Sector

Semiconductor technology underpins virtually every modern industry.  From consumer electronics and telecommunications to automotive, healthcare, defence and energy systems, semiconductors provide the processing, sensing, power management and connectivity functions that define how products and services operate.  Recently published global estimates for markets to which semiconductors are integral total more than $10trn.

The UK Semiconductor Sector is strategically vital and globally competitive; we have a well-established global reputation for excellence in  design, innovation, photonics and compound semiconductors.

In recognition of the importance of the Semiconductor Industry and the role it will play in underpinning emerging and transformational technologies, the Semiconductor Talent Award has been funded by UK Government. The Award aims to support the progression of graduates into rewarding careers within the sector.

Semiconductor Talent Award Timeline

UKESF Partner Universities