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Study in UK | Aston University Ernest Edward Scholarship 2026

February 16, 2026 7:35 am

Study in UK | Aston University Ernest Edward Scholarship 2026

Aston University has officially launched the Ernest Edward Scholarship 2026, a transformative sanctuary scholarship designed specifically for individuals seeking refuge in the United Kingdom who cannot access traditional student finance. This life-changing opportunity provides a clear pathway into higher education through comprehensive financial support, dedicated academic mentoring, and full integration into university life. With funding reaching up to £45,000 for undergraduate study and up to £20,000 for postgraduate taught programmes, this award stands among the most supportive sanctuary scholarships available for 2026 admissions.

Comprehensive Scholarship Package

The Ernest Edward Scholarship is intentionally structured to eliminate both financial and structural barriers that typically prevent refugee and asylum-seeking students from pursuing UK higher education. Aston University will award up to four scholarships under this scheme, making it a competitive yet profoundly impactful opportunity. Selected scholars receive:

A full tuition fee waiver covering the entire duration of their chosen programme.
Substantial financial support for accommodation and essential living costs.
Tailored non-cash assistance based on individual circumstances and needs.
Access to professional mentoring and structured career guidance.
Academic language support where provided as needed to facilitate successful study.
Full membership to Sports Aston facilities.
Dedicated assistance from Aston Students’ Union and university wellbeing teams.
Personalised student success support throughout their academic journey.

Consequently, recipients can focus entirely on their academic and professional growth without the constant pressure of financial uncertainty.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

This scholarship specifically targets individuals in the UK who are unable to access government student finance due to their current immigration status. To qualify, applicants must satisfy the following conditions:

Hold an application for an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate taught course at Aston University.
Be physically present in the United Kingdom at the time of application.
Fall into one of the following categories:
An asylum seeker, or the partner or dependant of an asylum seeker.
An unsuccessful asylum seeker or refugee granted Discretionary Leave to Remain (DLR) or another form of temporary status in the UK.
Demonstrate ineligibility for UK government student finance.
Note that most three-year undergraduate and one-year postgraduate courses qualify, though specific programmes such as medicine and nursing are excluded.
Crucially, applicants must first secure or apply for admission to an Aston University course before submitting the scholarship application.

Eligible Courses and Programmes

The scholarship supports a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes across the university’s colleges. Prospective applicants should verify course eligibility on the official Aston University website before proceeding with their admission application.

Strategic Application Process

The application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to timing and documentation. Follow these essential steps:

Apply for Admission First: Begin by submitting your application to an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate taught course at Aston University. You must have an active course application before seeking the scholarship.
Monitor the Opening Date: Scholarship applications become available only during the official application period. Forms cannot be requested before 9 March 2026.
Request the Application Form: From 9 March 2026 onwards, email the Ernest Edward Scholarship team directly to request the official application form.
Complete and Submit: Fill out the form meticulously, providing all required details and supporting documentation. Submit your completed application well before the final deadline.
Await Assessment: Shortlisted applicants will undergo evaluation based on demonstrated need, eligibility confirmation, and commitment to higher education.

How to Apply

Access the official scholarship information and begin your course application here:

Click Here to Apply

Critical Application Timeline

The scholarship application window opens on 9 March 2026 and closes definitively on 1 May 2026 at 5:00 PM UK time. All requests for application forms and completed submissions must occur within this period. Late submissions will not be considered under any circumstances.

In summary, the Ernest Edward Scholarship represents far more than financial assistance; it offers a genuine opportunity to rebuild academic and professional futures in a supportive, inclusive environment. By securing course admission first and submitting a complete scholarship application promptly, you position yourself to access transformative education at Aston University. Begin your course application today to take the first step toward this life-changing opportunity.