UK Scholarship Opportunities for Ukrainian Students: What You Need to Know

Navigating the UK's scholarship and financial support options for undergraduate students isn't an easy task. Fortunately, we're here to help! In this article, we will look at eligibility criteria, nationwide scholarships, university-specific scholarships, as well as how and where these scholarships can be found online.

Eligibility

When considering scholarship opportunities in the UK, it's essential to first ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. Here are the key points you need to keep in mind:

• Nationality Requirement: To qualify for certain scholarships, you must be a Ukrainian national who has been affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

• Academic Background: Most scholarships require applicants to have a strong academic background and meet the entry requirements for the respective courses.

• Displacement Verification: Some programs may ask for documentation or verification of your displacement due to the war in Ukraine, so be prepared to provide relevant information.

Nationwide Scholarships

Nationwide scholarships offer a fantastic opportunity for Ukrainian students in the UK to pursue their education in specific degree fields. These scholarships are usually tailored to a particular area, providing targeted support for students with a passion for a particular subject. These scholarships tend to be highly competitive and extremely narrow in focus: 

• The Jane Goodman Charitable Trust Scholarship aims to support one student studying Dentistry. 

• The Ralph N Emanuel Scholarship offers three scholarships for undergraduate degrees with a clear humanitarian purpose. This scholarship recognizes students who are dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond, providing them with the financial support needed to pursue their academic goals. 

When searching for nationwide scholarships, it's essential to conduct thorough research and consider your academic interests and goals. Keep an eye out for upcoming scholarship deadlines and requirements, and don't hesitate to reach out to scholarship providers for additional information or guidance. 

University-Specific Scholarships

Nationwide scholarships are, unfortunately, few and far between. On a more positive note, many universities across the UK have their own scholarship programs that can be applied to directly. Here are just a few examples of university-specific scholarship opportunities:

The University of Bath’s ‘Gold Scholarship Programme’

• £5,000 per year, comprised of: £3,250 cash, £750 accommodation reduction, £1,000 campus food and drink credit

• Available for up to 50 students per year

• Ukrainian students with Leave to Remain status are eligible

The University of St Andrews’ ‘Sanctuary Scholarship’

• Available to those with a ‘forced migration background’

• 12 places per year 

• Full tuition and accommodation funding, plus £110 per week

• Covers the duration of the program

Finding Scholarships

Finding and applying for scholarships can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can navigate the process effectively. Here are some steps to help you in your search for scholarship opportunities:

• Ukraine-specific Platforms: Start by exploring websites and platforms that list scholarship opportunities for Ukrainian students in the UK. Websites like the British Council, UCAS, and Student Action for Refugees (STAR) can be valuable resources for finding relevant scholarships.

• Check University Websites: Many universities in the UK offer scholarships specifically for international students, including those from Ukraine. Visit the websites of universities you are interested in to see if they have any scholarship programs available for you.

• Utilize Scholarship Search Engines: There are specialized scholarship search engines that allow you to filter scholarships based on your eligibility criteria. Take advantage of these tools to narrow down your options and find scholarships that align with your academic background and interests. Not all of these are Ukraine or UK-specific engines, but they are nevertheless valuable resources. The major engines include:

  • International Scholarships

  • Schwab and Westheimer Trust

  • STAR

  • Scholarship Tab

  • UNHCR

  • Scholarship Portal

  • IEFA (More US-focused)

  • Displaced Student

• Reach Out to Financial Aid Offices Directly: If you have specific questions about scholarships or need assistance with the application process, don't hesitate to reach out to the financial aid offices of universities you are considering. They can provide guidance and support throughout the application process.

Finding a scholarship that fits your needs is tough. That's why we're here to help! Book a consultation with one of our UK specialists to talk about your options today!