Factsheet
Humanitarian support for asylum seekers and refugees
Information about the support available for asylum seekers and refugees, and our status as a University of Sanctuary
Updated on 26 August 2025
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 who have been granted humanitarian protection and are resident in the UK 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
We are not currently not offering any scholarships specifically for asylum seekers and refugees, although you are welcome to apply for any of our standard range of scholarships.
Support for asylum seeker or refugee applicants
Once you arrive on campus, we hold regular networking events to help you meet other humanitarian scholars.
Support on campus
If you need support while studying at the University of Dundee, contact Annie McKinney.
- 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
- University of Dundee Law Clinic provides free and confidential legal advice
Support in Dundee and Scotland
- 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
- Glasgow Afghan United was established to support the Afghan community in Scotland
- Dundee Citizens Advice Bureau provides free, impartial and confidential advice and information
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.
Contact Bayan Alhasani about the Humanitarian Scholars Alumni Network.
Enquiries
Please complete our online Enquiry form with your query.