Application Deadline: 29 May 2026 (5pm BST)
For students with a refugee or asylum-seeking background in the UK, access to higher education can sometimes feel financially out of reach. The Brittan Scholarship 2026 aims to ease that burden by supporting eligible students pursuing a master’s degree at a UK university.
Established in memory of Lord Leon Brittan, whose family also experienced displacement and asylum, the scholarship reflects a strong commitment to educational opportunity and social inclusion. The program is designed for students who want to build careers in fields connected to international affairs, law, human rights, and global development.
The scholarship is open to students studying selected master’s courses, including International Law, Human Rights Law, International Aid, and International Business. Successful applicants can receive up to £20,000 to help cover tuition fees as well as a contribution toward living expenses during their studies.
This opportunity may be especially valuable for students already navigating the challenges of relocation, immigration processes, or financial uncertainty while trying to continue their education in the UK.
To be considered for the Brittan Scholarship 2026, applicants must currently be living in the United Kingdom and must have either applied or be in the process of applying for a master’s degree at a UK university. Applicants must also have a refugee or asylum-seeking background, meaning their immigration status must be linked to an asylum claim in the UK.
The scholarship only supports students pursuing one of the following subject areas:
- International Law
- Human Rights Law
- International Aid
- International Business
Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the guidance notes and FAQs before completing the application form. The organizers also note that there is no advantage in submitting applications early, so students should focus on preparing thoughtful and complete responses.
Interviews for shortlisted candidates are expected to take place in July 2026.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be currently living in the UK
- Have applied or be applying for a master’s degree at a UK university
- Have a refugee or asylum-seeking background
- Be studying one of the eligible courses listed above
You may also like: Amber Scholar 2026 for International Students ($50,000 Funding)
Benefits
Selected students will receive:
- Funding of up to £20,000
- Support toward tuition fees
- A small grant to assist with living expenses
- Access to postgraduate study opportunities in the UK
Application
Applications must be submitted through the official online application form. Applicants may also prepare their responses in advance using the downloadable Word version of the form before submitting online.
Candidates experiencing technical issues with the application portal are advised to clear their browser cache or use incognito mode.
For more details, visit Brittan Scholarship.
