Brunel University London Sanctuary Scholarships

Brunel University London is delighted to announce the opening of applications for the Sanctuary Scholarship 2026/2027 for prospective undergraduate students commencing their studies in September 2026. This prestigious scholarship supports individuals who have fled persecution and are seeking asylum in the United Kingdom, enabling access to higher education through comprehensive financial assistance.

Brunel University London was established in 1966 and is located in Uxbridge, West London. It was named after the famous British engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, known for his major contributions to modern engineering. Before becoming a university, it was known as Brunel College of Advanced Technology. Over the years, Brunel has grown into a respected public research university, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and welcoming students from around the world.

Table of Briefs

Background

The Brunel Sanctuary Scholarship was established to remove financial barriers preventing refugees and asylum seekers from accessing higher education. Since its launch in 2018, it has supported students with full tuition waivers and accommodation assistance.

The scholarship is available to students who have secured an offer to study a full-time undergraduate programme at Brunel University London or Brunel Pathway College starting in September 2026.

Eligibility Criteria

A Eligible Immigration Status

Applicants must hold one of the following:

• Asylum Seeker approved application

• Refugee Status including Syrian Vulnerable Person Relocation Scheme

• Discretionary Leave to Remain asylum-related

• Humanitarian Protection

• Family Reunion Scheme settlement

• Limited Leave to Remain family member under 18 of refugee

• Limited Leave on Human Rights grounds

B Academic & Admission Requirements

Applicants must:

• Apply to Brunel for 2026/2027 entry.

• Hold an offer for a full-time undergraduate course.

• Have an Unconditional Firm (UF) offer by October 2026.

• Be classified as a Home fee-paying student.

• Start studies in September 2026 no deferred entry.

• Not already hold an undergraduate degree.

Benefits

Tuition Fee Waiver

• Full tuition fee waiver per academic year.

• Covers up to:

  • 4 years including foundation year, or

  • 5 years for sandwich courses.

• Not applied during:

  • Placement year of sandwich course

  • Integrated Master’s final year partial waiver already applied

  • Repeat years

Accommodation Support

• Free single occupancy ensuite room in Brunel Halls of Residence.

• Maximum 52 weeks per year.

• Provided for:

  • Up to 4 years or 5 for sandwich courses

  • Placement year if staying on campus

  • Integrated Master’s year

• No cash alternative for off-campus living.

• Students must apply before accommodation deadlines.

Application Process

Phase 1 – Eligibility Check

After the 23 April 2026 deadline, eligibility and immigration status will be verified.

Phase 2 – Panel Review

Eligible applicants will be reviewed by the Allocation Panel May/June 2026 submit Scholarship application form.

Phase 3 – Informal Interview

Shortlisted candidates will attend an informal interview June 2026, either online or on campus.

Scholarships are provisionally awarded in June and formally confirmed in September 2026.

Important Dates

Application Deadline: 23 April 2026.

Conclusion

The Brunel Sanctuary Scholarship 2026/2027 is highly competitive, with only five awards available. However, for eligible students, it provides complete financial security covering both tuition and housing allowing you to focus entirely on your studies.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, ensure your application is complete, accurate, and submitted before 23 April 2026. This scholarship is more than funding it is an opportunity to rebuild your academic and professional future in the UK.

Apply Now