University for refugees
Refugees count as home students. Student Finance is available immediately — no 3-year residency wait. 80+ Sanctuary scholarships. Since 2025, the ELQ rule was removed — even if you have a degree from home, you can get funding.
How to apply through UCAS — step by step
Student Finance — who qualifies
Top Sanctuary scholarships
A Sanctuary Scholarship is a special award for refugees and asylum seekers. It comes on top of Student Finance. Apply directly to the university.
| University | What they offer |
|---|---|
| Sheffield | £10,000 per year + mentoring |
| Leeds | £10,000 per year |
| Birmingham | £5,000 + free housing |
| Manchester Met | £6,000 per year |
| Greenwich | Free housing + grant |
| Glasgow | Scholarship + support |
| Reading | Scholarship + free English course |
| Open University | Distance learning. Open to asylum seekers too. |
Foundation Year — the extra first year
UCAS deadlines
Free help
Frequently asked questions
Is university in the UK expensive?
No. Tuition fees are covered by Student Finance — a government loan. You only repay after you finish, and only if you earn more than £25,000 a year. If you earn less — you pay nothing. After 40 years the debt is written off.
Can an asylum seeker study at university?
Yes, but Student Finance is NOT available. Some universities offer Sanctuary Scholarships for asylum seekers. For example, Sheffield, Leeds, Open University. Full list at star-network.org.uk.
What about 30-month leave (limited leave)?
If your status was granted on the asylum route — you are treated the same as refugees and can access Student Finance immediately. If your status is on a different route — you need 3 years of UK residency. Check your visa.
How long is an undergraduate degree?
3 years in England. 4 years in Scotland. Some courses are longer: medicine 5-6 years, architecture 7 years. A Foundation Year adds 1 extra year at the start.
What entry qualifications do I need?
Usually A-levels (UK school exams) or equivalent. BUT: Foundation Year (Year 0) accepts students without A-levels. Many universities also accept overseas qualifications. Check through UK ENIC.
Do I need an English test (IELTS)?
Usually IELTS 6.0-6.5 for undergraduate courses. BUT: many universities accept a Pre-sessional English course instead of IELTS. Some Sanctuary scholarships include free English courses (e.g. Reading).