The Sanctuary PhD Scholarship is available for both full-time and part-time postgraduate research (PhD) programs at the university’s campuses in Loughborough and London.Loughborough University gives the Sanctuary PhD Scholarship to provide support to individuals seeking sanctuary in the UK.
The Sanctuary PhD Scholarship is established to enable asylum seekers, refugees, and individuals with humanitarian protection, among others, in advancing their academic careers.
Scholarship Overview
The Sanctuary PhD Scholarship at Loughborough University provides full financial support, including a fee waiver and a full bursary to cover study and living costs. The scholarship is accessible for the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 academic years, with two scholarships starting in July 2025 and two starting in October 2025 or January 2026. The scholarship is geared towards supporting ‘at-risk scholars’ by offering a safe and supportive academic environment.
Eligibility Criteria
To be regarded eligible for the Sanctuary PhD Scholarship, applicants must:
- Currently hold an offer of study (conditional or unconditional) for a postgraduate research (PhD) program at Loughborough University (Loughborough or London campus). Scholarships for part-time study will also be considered.
- Show evidence of exceptional academic achievement: Candidates must submit credentials showing success track record on their academic journey.
- Be considered an ‘at-risk scholar,’ which includes individuals whose home region is experiencing conflict or persecution, or who are at risk of imprisonment, injury, or comfortable individuals are not considered.
Additionally, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Asylum seeker, refugee, or individual with humanitarian protection.
- Holders of Limited or Discretionary Leave to Remain, Indefinite Leave to Remain, or other forms of sanctuary (including Calais Leave, Section 67 Leave, UASC leave, and Stateless Leave).
- Participants in Ukraine or Afghan Schemes or British National Overseas (BNO).
Application Procedures
The application process for the Sanctuary PhD Scholarship involves several steps:
- Receive an offer: Applicants must first secure an offer of study for a PhD program at Loughborough University. Do not submit the scholarship application until you have received your offer letter.
- Apply for the Scholarship: Submit the scholarship application form available on the Loughborough University website. Ensure that all parts of the form are completed in full.
- Confirmation: A confirmation email will be sent when your application has been received.
- Notification: All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by email. Shortlisted candidates will receive further information on the next steps.
Benefits of the Sanctuary PhD Scholarship
The Sanctuary PhD Scholarship provides several benefits, including:
- Complete Fee Waiver: The Sanctuary PhD Scholarship covers full tuition fees of candidates.
- Full Bursary: A stipend set at the recommended UKRI rate (currently £19,237) per annum for a period of 3 years for full-time PhD study, subject to annual uplifts.
- Support: The Sanctuary PhD Scholarship issues Comprehensive support for study and living costs of candidates.
Why Choose the Loughborough University?
Choosing Loughborough University for your PhD studies offers several advantages:
Academic Excellence: Loughborough is renowned for its high academic standards and research excellence.
Supportive Environment: The university provides a safe and supportive environment for ‘at-risk scholars.’
Comprehensive Funding: The scholarship covers tuition fees and living costs, allowing students to focus on their research without financial worries.
Inclusive Community: The university fosters an inclusive and welcoming community for students from diverse backgrounds.
Application and Deadline
The application deadlines for the Sanctuary PhD Scholarship are:
March 25, 2025: For a July 2025 start.
June 23, 2025: For an October 2025 or January 2026 start.
Official Scholarship Website:https://www.displacedstudent.org.uk/opportunities/loughborough-university-sanctuary-phd-scholarship/