University of Sheffield Sanctuary Scholarship

About the scholarship

The University of Sheffield Sanctuary Scholarship 2025-2026 is a fully funded, need-based program designed to support asylum seekers, refugees, and those with limited leave to remain in the UK, enabling them to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate taught programs at one of the UK’s leading research universities. Covering full tuition fees and providing a generous living stipend (approximately £12,500 annually), the scholarship ensures financial barriers do not prevent access to world-class education. Located in Sheffield, a UNESCO City of Music and a welcoming hub for diverse communities, the university offers cutting-edge facilities, including advanced research centers, libraries, and a vibrant student union with over 350 societies.

The program fosters inclusivity and resilience, offering tailored academic and pastoral support, including dedicated advisors and career services, to help scholars thrive. Scholars engage in fields like engineering, medicine, social sciences, or arts, contributing to Sheffield’s global research impact. The scholarship aligns with Sheffield’s commitment to social justice, empowering recipients to rebuild their lives, develop professional skills, and make meaningful contributions to society. With access to Sheffield’s cultural scene and strong community networks, scholars experience a transformative educational journey.

Eligibility

Applicants for the University of Sheffield Sanctuary Scholarship 2025-2026 must meet the following detailed criteria:

• Nationality/Immigration Status: Applicants must be one of the following in the UK:
  • Asylum seekers or dependents of asylum seekers.
  • Refugees or dependents of refugees with humanitarian protection.
  • Individuals with discretionary/limited leave to remain, or those with an unsuccessful asylum claim but granted temporary permission to stay.
  • Ineligible for UK student finance due to immigration status.
• Residency: Must be living in the UK at the time of application and not have access to public funding for higher education.
• Academic Qualifications:
  • Undergraduate: High school qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels (e.g., ABB, IB 32 points, or 75% average).
  • Postgraduate Taught: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0 or equivalent (e.g., UK 2:1 honors).
• Program Eligibility: Must have applied for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate taught program at the University of Sheffield starting in September 2025, excluding medicine (A100/A101) and dentistry (A200).
• Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each component), TOEFL iBT 80, or equivalent, unless prior education was in English; alternative qualifications may be considered for asylum seekers.
• Application Materials:
  • Online scholarship application via sheffield.ac.uk by June 30, 2025.
  • Proof of immigration status (e.g., Home Office letter, biometric residence permit).
  • Official academic transcripts, translated into English if needed.
  • Personal statement (500-750 words) outlining educational goals, challenges faced, and contributions to community.
  • One recommendation letter from an academic, community leader, or support organization.
  • Evidence of financial need (e.g., support letters from refugee organizations).
• Selection Criteria:
  • Academic potential and commitment to higher education.
  • Financial and social barriers due to immigration status.
  • Resilience and community engagement demonstrated in the personal statement.
• Additional Requirements:
  • Secure admission to a Sheffield program before scholarship confirmation.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (e.g., passing all modules) to retain funding.
  • Engage with Sheffield’s sanctuary support services, such as workshops or mentoring.
• Deadline: June 30, 2025, as per sheffield.ac.uk.

Applicants should contact Sheffield’s sanctuary scholarship team for guidance on immigration documentation.