Lancaster University is happy to announce the Sanctuary Scholarship 2026, a dedicated funding initiative designed to support students seeking asylum and those with refugee or humanitarian protection status in the UK. This scholarship aims to remove financial barriers to higher education by offering full tuition support, accommodation, and living cost assistance to eligible undergraduate and postgraduate taught students who are unable to access mainstream UK student funding.
Lancaster University was founded in 1964 and is one of the UK’s leading public research universities. Located in North West England, it is known for its collegiate system and strong focus on teaching, research, and student support. Over the years, Lancaster has built a strong international reputation for academic excellence and social responsibility.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Level | Undergraduate (UG), Postgraduate Taught PGT – Master’s |
| Fee Status | International students |
| Year of Entry | 2026 |
| Based On | Asylum / Refugee / Humanitarian protection status |
| Scholarship Value | 100% tuition fee waiver + up to £5,000 per year living costs |
| Accommodation | Free on-campus accommodation |
| Additional Support | Lancaster Success Programme coaching & guidance |
| Application Deadline | 20 March 2026 |
| Outcome Notification | 8 May 2026 |
Background
Lancaster University is firmly committed to widening access to higher education and supporting students who are seeking safety and security in the UK. The Sanctuary Scholarship is part of this commitment and is specifically designed for students who are unable to access mainstream UK student funding.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
-
Hold an offer for an undergraduate or postgraduate taught course at Lancaster University starting September 2026
-
Be unable to access mainstream student funding e.g. Student Finance loans
Benefits
The Lancaster Sanctuary Scholarship offers comprehensive support to help asylum-seeking and refugee students study with dignity, stability, and confidence.
Key benefits include:
-
100% Tuition Fee Waiver
Full coverage of tuition fees until you become eligible for UK student finance. -
Free On-Campus Accommodation
Safe, secure university housing provided at no cost. -
Living Cost Support Up to £5,000 per Year
Non-repayable financial support to help with daily expenses. -
Access to the Lancaster Success Programme
Guaranteed one-to-one coaching, academic guidance, and personal development support. -
Equal Access to UK Higher Education
Enables students who cannot access mainstream funding to pursue undergraduate or master’s degrees. -
Supportive University Community
Dedicated wellbeing, academic, and integration support for sanctuary students. -
Improved Career & Future Opportunities
A UK degree from Lancaster University enhances long-term academic and career prospects.
These benefits together make the Lancaster Sanctuary Scholarship a life-changing opportunity for students seeking safety and a future through education.
Application Process
-
Apply to Lancaster University
Secure an offer for an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate taught course starting in September 2026. -
Complete the Sanctuary Scholarship Application Form
Fill out the official scholarship application form provided by Lancaster University. -
Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure all required details and documents are completed accurately and submitted on time.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 20 March 2026.
Conclusion
The Lancaster Sanctuary Scholarship is more than financial aid it is a pathway to stability, education, and long-term success for students facing extraordinary challenges. With full tuition coverage, accommodation, living cost support, and dedicated coaching, Lancaster University offers a truly holistic support system for eligible students.