Goldsmiths Sanctuary Scholarship 2026 UK

Higher education can provide stability and opportunity during uncertain times. The Goldsmiths University Sanctuary Scholarship 2026 offers a fully funded pathway for individuals with refugee status or active asylum applications in the United Kingdom.

Hosted by Goldsmiths, University of London, this scholarship supports eligible students pursuing full-time, in-person undergraduate or taught postgraduate degrees beginning in 2026. Formerly known as the International Response Scholarship, the programme continues its commitment to widening access to higher education for displaced individuals.

With full tuition coverage, a living allowance, and accommodation support in London, the Sanctuary Scholarship removes key financial barriers. Applications close on 25 May 2026 at midnight BST.

Overview of the Goldsmiths Sanctuary Scholarship 2026

Key Details

• Degree Level: Undergraduate and Taught Postgraduate
• Host Country: United Kingdom
• Institution: Goldsmiths, University of London
• Application Deadline: 25 May 2026 at midnight BST
• Number of Awards: Up to 4
  • 2 for undergraduate students
  • 2 for postgraduate taught students
• Funding Type: Fully funded
• Application Fee: None
• Eligible Applicants: Individuals with refugee status or active asylum applications in the UK

The scholarship is restricted to those who can provide official documentation confirming refugee status or an ongoing asylum claim in the United Kingdom. Ukrainian applicants covered under Home Office schemes are also eligible.

What the Sanctuary Scholarship Covers

The Goldsmiths Sanctuary Scholarship 2026 provides a comprehensive financial package designed to support both academic and living expenses.

Full Tuition Fee Waiver

Recipients receive a complete waiver of tuition fees for the full duration of their degree. This removes the primary cost of studying in the UK.

Annual Living Allowance

Each scholar receives £8,825 per year. This allowance supports daily expenses such as food, transport, and study materials.

Accommodation Support

The scholarship covers accommodation costs up to £200 per week for a single study bedroom in Goldsmiths halls of residence. This ensures secure and stable housing in London, which is often one of the most significant financial challenges for students.

Applicants seeking university accommodation must submit a separate accommodation application. They should mention their scholarship application in the notes section.

Together, these benefits allow students to focus on their studies without the constant pressure of financial insecurity.

Who Is Eligible for the Goldsmiths Sanctuary Scholarship 2026

Eligibility is strictly defined to support individuals facing displacement or uncertainty due to forced migration.

Immigration Status Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold official refugee status in the UK, or
• Have an active asylum application in the UK

Official documentation must be uploaded to the MyGoldsmiths account as part of the application process.

Ukrainian applicants covered under specific Home Office arrangements are also considered.

Academic Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a confirmed offer of admission for an eligible undergraduate or taught postgraduate programme at Goldsmiths.
• Intend to study full-time and in person.
• Meet all general academic entry requirements for their chosen course.
• Be permitted to study in the UK.

The scholarship does not restrict applicants to specific academic fields. Any eligible full-time programme at Goldsmiths qualifies.

Available Degree Programmes

Goldsmiths is known for its strengths in arts, humanities, social sciences, and creative disciplines. The Sanctuary Scholarship applies across a broad range of subjects.

Undergraduate and Postgraduate Fields Include:

• Anthropology
• Art and Design
• Computing
• Creative and Cultural Entrepreneurship
• Drama and Theatre
• Education
• English and Comparative Literature
• History
• International Relations
• Journalism
• Management
• Media and Communications
• Music
• Politics
• Psychology
• Social Work
• Sociology
• Visual Cultures

Students should review the official course pages to confirm specific entry criteria.

Why Choose Goldsmiths, University of London

Located in southeast London, Goldsmiths offers a distinctive academic environment rooted in creativity, social awareness, and research-led teaching.

The university is internationally recognised for programmes in media, arts, culture, and social sciences. Its London location provides access to professional networks, cultural institutions, and research centres.

For scholarship recipients, the university environment offers:

• Strong academic support
• Inclusive campus culture
• Access to student services tailored to refugee and asylum-seeking students
• Opportunities for personal development

The Sanctuary Scholarship reflects Goldsmiths’ broader commitment to social responsibility and inclusion.

How to Apply for the Goldsmiths Sanctuary Scholarship 2026

Applying requires careful coordination between course admission and scholarship submission.

Step 1: Secure an Offer of Admission

First, apply for a full-time undergraduate or taught postgraduate programme at Goldsmiths. You must receive a confirmed offer before applying for the scholarship.

Applications for degree programmes are submitted through the standard university admissions process.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents

Prepare official documentation confirming:

• Refugee status, or
• Active asylum application

These documents must be uploaded to your MyGoldsmiths account.

Step 3: Complete the Sanctuary Scholarship Application Form

Fill out the official scholarship application form as instructed on the university website. Ensure all required fields are completed accurately.

Step 4: Upload Documents to MyGoldsmiths

All supporting documents must be uploaded to the online portal before the deadline.

Step 5: Apply for Accommodation Separately

If you require university housing, submit a separate accommodation application. In the comments section, mention that you have applied for the Sanctuary Scholarship.

Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline

All scholarship materials must be submitted by 25 May 2026 at midnight BST. Late applications are unlikely to be considered.

Selection Process and Competition

With only four awards available, the Sanctuary Scholarship is highly competitive. Two awards are allocated to undergraduate students and two to postgraduate taught students.

Selection is based on:

• Academic potential
• Strength of application
• Eligibility status
• Overall readiness to benefit from and contribute to the university community

Applicants should present a clear academic purpose and demonstrate commitment to completing their chosen programme.

Financial Impact of the Scholarship

Studying in London can be expensive. Tuition fees for international or non-home students often represent a significant barrier. Housing costs in particular can be high.

The Sanctuary Scholarship addresses these concerns directly by:

• Eliminating tuition fees
• Providing a structured annual allowance
• Covering accommodation in university halls

This combination makes it one of the most comprehensive support packages available for refugees and asylum seekers in UK higher education.

Important Dates to Remember

• Year of Entry: 2026
• Scholarship Deadline: 25 May 2026, midnight BST

Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing early. Admission offers must be secured in advance of the scholarship application.

Official LinkJoin Our Community