Goldsmiths, University of London is pleased to announce the Sanctuary Scholarship formerly the International Response Scholarship for the 2026 academic year. This scholarship aims to support talented students from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds by removing financial barriers to higher education.
Goldsmiths University of London was founded in 1891 as The Goldsmiths’ Technical and Recreative Institute and became part of the University of London in 1904. The university is known for its strong focus on the arts, humanities, and social sciences, and has built a global reputation for creativity, critical thinking, and innovative teaching and research.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Sanctuary Scholarship Formerly International Response Scholarship |
| Provider | Goldsmiths, University of London |
| Year of Entry | 2026 |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate and Taught Postgraduate |
| Number of Awards | Up to 4 2 UG + 2 PGT |
| Financial Benefits | Tuition fee waiver + £8,825 allowance + accommodation support |
| Application Period | 16 February 2026 – 25 May 2026 |
| Selection Basis | Competitive |
Background
The Sanctuary Scholarship, formerly known as the International Response Scholarship, is an initiative by Goldsmiths, University of London designed to support students who have been forced to flee their home countries due to conflict, persecution, or humanitarian crises. Established to promote access to higher education for refugees and asylum seekers, the scholarship reflects Goldsmiths’ commitment to equality, inclusion, and widening participation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Sanctuary Scholarship, applicants must meet both general admission requirements and the specific eligibility conditions outlined below:
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Hold refugee status in the UK or have an active asylum application in the UK
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Be able to provide official documentation confirming refugee or asylum status uploaded via the MyGoldsmiths account
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Hold an offer of admission for an undergraduate or taught postgraduate programme at Goldsmiths, University of London
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Be eligible to study in the UK
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If on Immigration Bail, there must be no restriction preventing study
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Ukrainian applicants seeking refuge in the UK under special Home Office arrangements are also eligible and will be considered
Benefits
The Sanctuary Scholarship offers one of the most generous funding packages available for displaced students in the UK.
Successful applicants will receive:
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Full tuition fee waiver for each year of study
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Annual maintenance allowance of £8,825 to support living expenses
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Accommodation support covering a single study bedroom in Goldsmiths halls of residence, up to £200 per week
This holistic support ensures scholars can focus on their academic and personal development without financial stress.
Application Process
The application process is structured and transparent:
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Secure an Offer of Study
Apply for and receive an offer for an eligible undergraduate or taught postgraduate programme at Goldsmiths. -
Access the Scholarship Application Form
The 2026 Sanctuary Scholarship application form will be available on the official scholarship page from 16 February 2026. -
Submit Supporting Documents
Upload proof of refugee or asylum status to your MyGoldsmiths account. -
Accommodation Application Optional
If you wish to live in Goldsmiths accommodation, submit a separate accommodation application and clearly mention in the notes section that you are applying for the International Response / Sanctuary Scholarship. -
Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure all materials are submitted before 25 May 2026 midnight BST.
Important Dates
Applications Deadline: 25 May 2026.
Conclusion
The Sanctuary Scholarship at Goldsmiths, University of London is a life-changing opportunity for students from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds. With comprehensive financial support and an inclusive academic environment, it empowers students to rebuild their futures through education. Eligible applicants are strongly encouraged to apply and take full advantage of this exceptional scholarship opportunity.