Ulster University Asylum Seekers Scholarships

Ulster University is proud to announce the availability of the Asylum Seekers Scholarships for the academic year 2025/2026. This scholarship aims to support up to six eligible students who have sought asylum in Northern Ireland and who do not have access to mainstream UK student finance. The award includes full tuition fee remission and an annual grant of £500 towards travel and course-related expenses.

Ulster University, founded in 1968 as the New University of Ulster, is one of Northern Ireland’s leading educational institutions. It merged with the Ulster Polytechnic in 1984 to form the University of Ulster, now known simply as Ulster University. With campuses in Belfast, Jordanstown, Coleraine, and Derry~Londonderry, it has grown into a modern, multi-campus university known for its strong focus on research, innovation, and community engagement. Ulster University plays a vital role in supporting regional development and providing accessible education across Northern Ireland.

Table of Briefs

Background

Ulster University is committed to fostering diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Recognising the financial and systemic barriers faced by asylum seekers, the university is offering up to six Asylum Seekers Scholarships for the 2025/2026 academic year. The aim is to provide access to higher education for students who cannot access mainstream UK student finance due to their immigration status.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the scholarship, applicants must meet all the following conditions:

• Must have sought asylum in Northern Ireland and be currently resident there.

• Be:

  • An asylum seeker,

  • A dependant of someone with discretionary or limited leave to remain, or

  • Awaiting a decision on their asylum application.

• Not eligible for mainstream UK student finance.

• Must apply and receive a conditional/unconditional offer from Ulster University by 31 May 2025.

• Apply to eligible full-time undergraduate or one-year postgraduate programmes (excluding placement years, part-time, NHS-funded, PGCE, etc.).

• Must live within commutable distance of the selected campus.

• Able to support themselves financially (excluding tuition) and provide evidence.

• Must complete and submit the scholarship application with documentary evidence by 13 June 2025.

• Must register online before the semester starts and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Benefits

• Tuition Fee Remission: Full tuition fee coverage for up to 3 years (UG) or 1 year (PG), or until you become eligible for student finance.

• Annual Grant: £500 per year towards travel and course-related costs.

• No support provided for accommodation or living expenses – applicants must show they can cover these independently.

Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Apply to Ulster University:

   • Undergraduate via UCAS

   • Postgraduate via Ulster University Application Portal

2. Receive an Offer:

   • Conditional, unconditional, or “decision pending” status from the university by 31 May 2025.

3. Submit Scholarship Application:

   • Complete the online application form and attach required immigration and residency documents.

   • Deadline: Friday, 13 June 2025

4. Wait for Notification:

   • Ulster University will review all applications and notify selected students.

Important Dates

Application Deadline: 13 June 2025.

Conclusion

The Asylum Seekers Scholarship at Ulster University provides a critical lifeline for individuals striving to continue their education while facing the uncertainties of asylum proceedings. With full tuition support and a modest grant, this scholarship is a stepping stone toward stability and academic success.

Apply Now