King’s College London is pleased to announce the Sanctuary Scholarships 2026–2027, aimed at supporting students who are asylum seekers, have limited leave to remain in the UK due to an asylum claim, or are displaced by conflict. This prestigious scholarship provides a full tuition fee waiver, a living stipend of up to £20,000, and additional tailored support for eligible candidates pursuing a one-year, in-person Master’s programme starting in September 2026.
King’s College London was founded in 1829 by King George IV and the Duke of Wellington. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK, originally established to provide education based on Christian principles. Over time, it grew into a leading global institution, known for its excellence in teaching and research across fields such as medicine, law, humanities, and sciences. Today, it is part of the University of London and has a strong international reputation.
Table of Briefs
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| University | King’s College London |
| Scholarship Name | Sanctuary Scholarship 2026–2027 |
| Study Level | One-year Master’s in-person |
| Number of Awards | Up to 12 |
| Application Opens | 2 February 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 5 May 2026 |
| Decision Date | 6 July 2026 |
| Funding | Tuition + up to £20,000 stipend |
Background
The Sanctuary Scholarship at King’s College London was established as part of the university’s wider commitment to supporting individuals affected by forced displacement, conflict, and asylum-related challenges. Recognising that many talented students face barriers to higher education due to their immigration status or financial hardship, King’s introduced this initiative to create inclusive access to postgraduate study.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Sanctuary Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be an asylum seeker, have limited leave to remain due to an asylum claim, or be displaced due to conflict
- Have applied to an in-person, one-year Master’s programme at King’s starting in September 2026
- Meet additional requirements outlined in the official FAQ document
Special Scholarships:
- One award is dedicated in memory of Dr Maisara Alrayyes
- One scholarship via the Bseisu Foundation is reserved for students from Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, or Syria pursuing a STEM Master’s degree
Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Living stipend up to £20,000
- Additional support based on individual needs
Important Note: If you are receiving UK asylum support or legal aid, the stipend may affect your benefits. It is recommended to consult a legal advisor before applying.
Application Process
The application process consists of two main stages:
Step 1: Complete Application Form
- Fill out the official Sanctuary Scholarship application form online
Step 2: Submit Supporting Documents
- Send required documents via email as mentioned in the FAQ and guidance materials
Application Fee Waiver Updated April 2026
- Applicants must complete a separate fee waiver form by 30 April 2026
- Fee waivers are not guaranteed and are assessed individually
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 5 May 2026.
Conclusion
The Sanctuary Scholarship 2026–2027 at King’s College London is a life-changing opportunity for students facing displacement or asylum challenges. With full financial support and access to a world-class education, it enables deserving candidates to pursue their academic and career aspirations in the UK. If you meet the eligibility criteria, applying for this scholarship could be a significant step toward a brighter future.