Unlocking Opportunities: UCL Humanitarian Scholarships for Future Change-Makers

The UCL Humanitarian Scholarships are designed to support prospective postgraduate students from regions affected by armed conflict and displacement. These scholarships offer up to four awards in the 2025/26 academic year and cover full tuition fees, as well as a maintenance allowance to cover accommodation and living costs, approximately valued at £20,000. Additionally, the scholarship includes funds for the Immigration Health Surcharge, visa fees, and one return flight to the UK.

Who Can Apply?

This scholarship is available to students from overseas countries (those outside the UK), and candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Risk due to armed conflict: Applicants must be at serious risk due to armed conflict or have been displaced from their home country within the last three years because of such conflicts. These individuals must have sought international protection outside of the UK.

• Financial need: The scholarship is intended for those from lower-income backgrounds. Applicants will need to demonstrate financial need as part of the selection process.

• Not already holding a relevant qualification: Applicants must not hold a qualification at the level of the course they are applying for (or higher).

• Accepted by UCL: Candidates must have received an offer for a full-time Master’s degree at UCL by the time the scholarship panel meets, which will be at the start of June 2025. Please note that distance learning and part-time Master's courses are not eligible for this award.

If you are currently residing in the UK, applications from those already living there will not be accepted, but there are other scholarship opportunities for those in the UK, such as the UCL Access Opportunity Scholarship for asylum seekers and refugees.

Key Information

• Value of the Scholarship:

  • Full tuition fees for the duration of the programme.

  • A maintenance payment of approximately £20,000 to cover living and accommodation costs.

  • An allowance for the Immigration Health Surcharge, visa fees, and one return flight.

• Eligibility:

  • Open to students from overseas (outside the UK).

  • Applicants must come from a lower-income background.

  • Applicants must be at risk or displaced due to armed conflict and have sought international protection.

• Deadline:

  • The deadline to apply for the scholarship is 5pm BST, Thursday 8 May 2025.

• Programmes Eligible:

  • The scholarship is available for full-time postgraduate taught Master's programmes only.

• Duration:

  • The scholarship is for one year, with the possibility of extension if the programme lasts two years.

• Restrictions:

  • This scholarship cannot be held alongside other scholarships, awards, or bursaries.

How to Apply?

To apply for the UCL Humanitarian Scholarships, visit the International Master's Awards page for detailed instructions on the application process. The application deadline is 5pm BST, Thursday 8 May 2025, so be sure to submit your application before the deadline.

This scholarship presents a unique opportunity for students from conflict-affected areas to access world-class education, gain valuable skills, and contribute to global humanitarian efforts. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about making a change, this scholarship could be the stepping stone to a brighter future.