Factsheet
Humanitarian support for asylum seekers and refugees
Updated on 25 September 2023
Information about the support available for asylum seekers and refugees, and our status as a University of Sanctuary.
We are a University of Sanctuary, part of the network of institutions across the United Kingdom working to develop support for those displaced by humanitarian crises.
How to apply to study as an asylum seeker or refugee
Refugees and asylum seekers are considered under the University’s Contextual Admissions Policy.
The University’s Contextual Admissions Policy aims to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and that any circumstances which may have impacted an applicant’s potential are considered throughout the application process.
All applications are screened at the point of application, and if the information provided suggests that an applicant is a refugee or asylum seeker, they are given a contextual flag to ensure they are treated in line with the Contextual Admissions Policy.
Refugees and asylum seekers are considered as "Category 1" applicants, which ensures that:
- They are made a supported, widening-access level offer
- They are offered the opportunity to participate in our free Access Summer School (undergraduate applicants) as an alternative means of meeting our entry requirements or to help them prepare for university-level study
- If applying for an interviewing subject, they will normally be offered an interview (provided they are studying/have studied any essential subjects)
Scholarships for asylum seekers or refugees
Our humanitarian scholarships are available to students studying at master’s or PhD level. They cover course fees and provide a monthly stipend for living costs and accommodation. Both master’s and PhD level study include the University’s ongoing partnership with HESPAL and Cara.
Support for asylum seeker or refugee applicants
We offer funding support and access to pre-sessional English courses to help applicants prepare for their studies.
Once you arrive on campus, we hold regular networking events to help you meet other humanitarian scholars.
Support on campus
- Find out more about accommodation on and near our city campus
- Advice for international students on finding private accommodation
- International Advice Service for applicants with families
- Learn more about our Student Services
- Our Chaplaincy is a safe space for those of all faiths and none
- Dundee University Students’ Association (DUSA) provides support and advice to students
Support in Dundee
- The local council, Dundee City Council, offers English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes
- Fife Migrants Forum is a charity organisation based in the local area that supports refugees integrate into the local society
- One World Centre Dundee promotes global justice and equality through education by supporting teachers, schools, and community groups
- AMINA is the Muslim Women’s Resource Centre is a service user-led, lived experience-informed community organisation
- The Scottish Refugee Council is a charity that provides advice and services to asylum seekers and refugees
- Dundee International Women’s Centre helps improve the lives of women living in Dundee
Humanitarian Scholars Alumni Network
The Alumni Network is a global network of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Their mission is to:
- Connect, empower, and foster leadership
- Have positive impact on the lives of those affected by crises
- Provide a platform for alumni and scholars to connect and collaborate
- Offer opportunities for networking, mentoring and academic development
Their vision is to build a network of Humanitarians, with the knowledge, skills, and resources to empower individuals and promote the University of Dundee.