The University of Westminster is proud to announce the Postgraduate Sanctuary Scholarships for the academic year 2024/2025. This scholarship aims to support asylum seekers and refugees living in the United Kingdom who are not eligible for postgraduate financial assistance from Student Finance. The scholarship includes a full tuition fee waiver and a monthly stipend of £1,000 for up to 12 months.
The University of Westminster, established in 1838 as the Royal Polytechnic Institution, was the first polytechnic in the UK, pioneering technical and professional education. It gained university status in 1992 and has since become known for its diverse community, commitment to research, and strong industry connections. With campuses in central London and a focus on global engagement, the university offers a wide range of programs in arts, sciences, business, and social sciences, empowering students to achieve personal and professional success.
Table of Briefs
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Postgraduate Sanctuary Scholarship |
| Institution | University of Westminster |
| Level | Postgraduate (Full-time Master’s) |
| Funding Amount | Full tuition fee waiver and £1,000/month for up to 12 months |
| Number of Awards | Three |
| Eligible Applicants | Asylum seekers and refugees residing in the UK |
| Deadline | 22 November 2024 (5 pm GMT) |
Background
The University of Westminster is committed to promoting inclusivity and supporting students from diverse backgrounds, particularly those who have faced adversity. The Postgraduate Sanctuary Scholarship is part of the university’s broader mission to provide educational opportunities for students with asylum or refugee status living in the UK. This scholarship aims to remove the financial barriers that can prevent talented students from pursuing higher education, fostering a more equitable academic environment.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Postgraduate Sanctuary Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- University Offer: You must have an offer for a full-time master’s course at the University of Westminster, starting in either September 2024 or January 2025.
- Residency Status: You must be currently residing in the UK.
- Eligible Immigration Status: You must hold one of the following immigration statuses:
- UK asylum seeker
- UK discretionary leave to remain (as a result of an asylum application)
- UK limited leave to remain (as a result of an asylum application)
- UK refugee status
- Previous Education: Students who already hold a master’s degree are not eligible to apply.
- Student Finance: Applicants who are eligible for taught postgraduate student loans from Student Finance are not eligible.
- Course Exclusions: The following courses are not eligible for this scholarship:
- Postgraduate Diploma programs
- Professional courses (e.g., RIBA pt III, ACCA, CIMA, CiLEX)
- Conversion courses (e.g., Graduate Diploma in Law)
- Integrated Masters/MPhil programs
Benefits
The Postgraduate Sanctuary Scholarship offers the following benefits:
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver: Covers the full tuition fees for the eligible master’s course.
- Monthly Stipend: Recipients will receive a stipend of £1,000 per month for up to 12 months to help with living expenses.
With only three scholarships available, this opportunity is highly competitive. It’s crucial for applicants to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and submit a well-prepared application.
Application Process
Applying for the Postgraduate Sanctuary Scholarship involves completing an application form and providing supporting documents. Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Obtain an Offer: Ensure you have received an offer for a full-time master’s course at the University of Westminster starting in September 2024 or January 2025.
- Complete the Application Form: Download and fill out the Sanctuary Scholarship application form from the university’s website.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Include your academic transcripts and any other relevant documents as PDF attachments.
- Submit the Application: Email your completed application form and transcripts to scholarships@westminster.ac.uk by 22 November 2024, 5 pm GMT.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 22 November 2024.
Conclusion
The Postgraduate Sanctuary Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for asylum seekers and refugees in the UK to pursue their academic dreams and build a brighter future. By providing a full tuition fee waiver and a monthly stipend, this scholarship significantly reduces the financial burden of postgraduate education. If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss the chance to apply and take the next step in your educational journey at the University of Westminster.