New University of Sanctuary scholarships launched

We're launching a new round of University of Sanctuary scholarships to support students fleeing violence and persecution.

We've approved funding to support University of Sanctuary scholarships for the next three years with the awards covering course fee waivers, accommodation and support for living costs. The deadline for applications for this year is Friday 30 June 2023.

We've been a University of Sanctuary since 2022 and our scholarships are part of our commitment to promoting a culture of welcome, safety and inclusion across our campuses and our wider communities.

Dean of Postgraduate Research and Education Profession Shane Martin said: “We’re very proud of our role as a University of Sanctuary so I am delighted these scholarships will provide vital support to students who are seeking safe refuge after fleeing violence, persecution or war at home.

“In the coming three years I hope these scholarships can provide hope to refugees from around the world and allow them to pursue their education despite the many challenges they face. We very much look forward to welcoming them to the University of Essex.”

The University of Sanctuary Scholarship is available to new postgraduate taught Masters students taking up a place to study in 2023-24, who have UK Asylum status or Discretionary/Limited Leave to Remain as a result of an asylum application, and those with Humanitarian Protection, as a result of an asylum application or through a dependant’s claim.

The scholarship includes a full tuition fee waiver for a one-year full time Postgraduate Taught Masters programme, university accommodation and £6,000 to support living and study costs.

There are two streams for the University of Sanctuary scholarship programme. One strand covers one-year Human Rights postgraduate taught Masters programmes and the other covers all other one-year postgraduate taught Masters programmes. One scholarship will be awarded for each of the streams.

Previous University of Sanctuary scholarship recipients have praised the support they have received.

LLM International Human Rights Law student Temesgen Beriso Shire said: “This Sanctuary scholarship has made all the difference and it allows me to continue to pursue my academic goals. Thank you not only for the financial support but also for the gift of your heart and the human spirit."

LLM International Humanitarian Law student Fatma Ozdemir said: "I am incredibly proud to be a part of the University of Sanctuary. My Masters programme is of great importance to my career. After successfully completing my course, I would like to take part in international projects to share the knowledge and experience I have gained."