The Sanctuary Scholarship at the University of Sheffield is a fully funded opportunity for students who have sought asylum in the UK, including those displaced or affected by conflict. It covers full tuition fees and provides a £10,300 annual living cost award for undergraduate or postgraduate taught courses.
The University of Sheffield is a leading Russell Group institution in the UK, known for its commitment to social inclusion and support for displaced students. It offers a welcoming environment and dedicated resources to help sanctuary scholars succeed academically and personally.
Sanctuary Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee coverage
- £10,300 annual living cost award
- Nationally recognized support for asylum seekers and displaced students
- Award for each year of study
Sanctuary Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Have humanitarian protection, limited leave to remain, or be an asylum seeker (or a dependant/partner of one).
- Have applied for asylum on arrival in the UK before applying to university.
- Hold an offer from the University of Sheffield for September 2026 entry.
- Be supported by a referee from a school, college, or community/voluntary group.
- Not hold a qualification equal to or higher than the one applied for.
- Not be eligible for UK student finance or other University of Sheffield scholarships.
Required Documents
- Personal details and application form.
- Referee’s supporting statement (max 750 words).
- Documentation from the Home Office regarding asylum claim.
- Client care, data confidentiality, responsibility and service agreement form (2026).
- Proof of offer from the University of Sheffield.
How to Apply for Sanctuary Scholarship?
- Provide personal details and answer questions about your studies and the scholarship.
- Provide a supporting statement from your referee from the school, college or community/volunteering/support group you currently attend.
- Provide all documentation received from the Home Office in relation to your asylum claim and your referee’s statement.
- Complete and attach the Client care, data confidentiality, responsibility and service agreement form 2026.
- Submit your application and all required documentation before the deadline.
- All eligible applicants will be notified of the outcome of their scholarship application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Sanctuary Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
I haven’t applied for a course yet, can I apply?
You must have received an offer for a course at the University of Sheffield to be able to apply for a scholarship. You can contact the University for advice about how to apply, the courses available, and entry requirements.
I don’t have evidence of my previous qualifications, what can I do?
If you are unable to source evidence of previous qualifications, contact the Student Fees and Funding team for assistance.
My asylum application has been rejected, but I am appealing the decision. Can I still apply?
No. If your appeal results in a new immigration status with leave to remain, we will then be able to consider your application.
I need to improve my English and have taken an IELTS test. My score is below the course requirement. Can I still get the scholarship?
You will only be eligible to apply if you have a place on a course at the University of Sheffield. If you do not have the required IELTS score and the University will not accept you, you will not be eligible.
What are my chances of getting the scholarship if I apply?
There are only a limited number of scholarships available and we receive a high number of applications. The scholarship is very competitive and you should complete your application to the very highest standard.
I am currently studying at another UK university but would like to transfer to the University of Sheffield and apply for the Sanctuary Scholarship.
We only accept applications from students beginning a new course at the University of Sheffield. You cannot apply for the scholarship if you are transferring.
Am I able to apply for the Sanctuary Scholarship if I get a place through clearing?
No, we are not able to consider applicants who are coming to the University of Sheffield through clearing.
I will be a PhD candidate at the University of Sheffield. Can I apply for a Sanctuary Scholarship?
No, you cannot apply if you are undertaking a research degree. Only those studying undergraduate or postgraduate taught courses can apply.
What is the deadline to apply?
The deadline to apply is 1pm Monday 29 June 2026. Late and ineligible applications will not be considered.
How many scholarships are available?
Five fully-funded Sanctuary Scholarships are available for 2026 entry.
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