UCL Humanitarian Scholarship in UK is a fully funded postgraduate funding opportunity designed for international students who are at serious risk or have been displaced due to armed conflict. Offered by University College London (UCL), this prestigious scholarship enables eligible students to pursue a full-time Master’s degree in the United Kingdom without the burden of tuition fees or living expenses.
Each year, UCL supports a limited number of students whose education has been disrupted by conflict, insecurity, or forced displacement. Through this initiative, the university reaffirms its commitment to global equity, inclusion, and access to higher education for vulnerable populations.
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Summary of the UCL Humanitarian Scholarship in UK
- Host Institution: University College London (UCL)
- Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
- Level of Study: Master’s Degree (Postgraduate)
- Study Mode: Full-time, on-campus
- Eligible Countries: All countries outside the UK
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Coverage: Tuition fees, living stipend, accommodation support, visa and travel costs
- Living Allowance: Approximately £20,000 per year
- IELTS Requirement: Not mandatory in all cases
- Application Deadline: May 7, 2026
About University College London (UCL)
University College London is one of the world’s leading public research universities and a founding member of the Russell Group. Located in London, UCL is consistently ranked among the top universities globally for academic excellence, research impact, and innovation.
With a strong international outlook, UCL welcomes students from over 150 countries and provides an inclusive academic environment supported by world-class facilities, expert faculty, and extensive student support services. The UCL Humanitarian Scholarship reflects the institution’s dedication to social responsibility and humanitarian values.
What Is the UCL Humanitarian Scholarship?
The UCL Humanitarian Scholarship is a fully funded Master’s scholarship aimed at international students who are facing significant challenges due to armed conflict. Specifically, the scholarship targets individuals who are either at serious risk in their home countries or who have been displaced internally or externally within the last three years.
Importantly, the award is granted based on financial need, personal circumstances, and academic merit. Final selection is made upon the recommendation of the UCL Humanitarian Scholarship Panel, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
2026 UCL Humanitarian Scholarship Details
Applications are open for the 2026/2027 academic session, and eligible candidates from all countries outside the UK are encouraged to apply.
This scholarship allows successful applicants to focus fully on their studies by removing the financial barriers commonly associated with studying in the UK. In addition to covering academic costs, it also provides essential support for living, accommodation, and immigration-related expenses.
Eligibility Criteria for UCL Humanitarian Scholarship 2026
To qualify for the UCL Humanitarian Scholarship in UK, applicants must meet all of the following conditions:
General Eligibility Requirements
- Must be an international student (non-UK resident)
- Must be eligible to pay the Overseas tuition fee rate at UCL
- Must come from a low-income or financially disadvantaged background
- Must not already hold a qualification at the same level or higher than the course applied for
Humanitarian and Displacement Criteria
Applicants must also meet at least one of the following:
- Be at serious risk as a direct result of armed conflict, or
- Be displaced within their home country, or
- Have been forced to leave their home country within the last three years due to armed conflict and sought international protection outside the UK
Academic Admission Requirement
- Must hold an offer of admission for a full-time Master’s programme at UCL
- Admission must be secured before the scholarship panel meeting in early June 2026
- Note: Distance learning and part-time Master’s programmes are not eligible
Benefits of the UCL Humanitarian Scholarship in UK
The UCL Humanitarian Scholarship 2026 provides comprehensive financial support, ensuring that selected students can study in the UK without financial stress.
Scholarship Coverage
- Full tuition fees for the entire duration of the Master’s programme
- Maintenance allowance of approximately £20,000 to cover living and accommodation costs
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- UK student visa application fees
- One return economy flight to and from the UK
Duration of the Award
- The scholarship is tenable for one academic year
- For programmes lasting two years, funding may be extended subject to programme structure and conditions
Number of Awards
- Up to four (4) scholarships are available for the 2026/27 academic year
English Language Requirement (IELTS Policy)
Although the scholarship listing states “No IELTS Required,” applicants should note that English language requirements are determined by UCL and the specific Master’s programme.
In many cases, UCL may waive IELTS if:
- The applicant completed previous education in English, or
- The applicant meets alternative English proficiency criteria approved by the university
Therefore, candidates are advised to review the language requirements of their chosen programme carefully.
Required Documents for UCL Humanitarian Scholarship
Applicants should prepare the following documents in advance:
- Completed UCL Master’s admission application
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Personal statement addressing academic goals and humanitarian circumstances
- Proof of displacement or risk due to armed conflict (where applicable)
- Financial information demonstrating low-income background
- Academic references (submitted during course application)
- Valid international passport
Additional documents may be requested by UCL during the review process.
How to Apply for UCL Humanitarian Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)
To successfully apply for the UCL Humanitarian Scholarship in UK, follow the steps below carefully:
1: Apply for Admission at UCL
- Choose an eligible full-time Master’s programme at UCL
- Submit your academic application along with required references
- Secure an offer of admission
2: Access the Scholarship Application Page
- Visit the official UCL International Master’s Awards page
- Locate the UCL Humanitarian Scholarship
3: Submit Scholarship Application
- Complete the scholarship application form
- Provide all required supporting information and documents
4: Submit Before the Deadline
- Ensure your application is submitted no later than 5:00 pm (BST), Thursday, May 7, 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Why Apply for the UCL Humanitarian Scholarship?
The UCL Humanitarian Scholarship in UK is more than financial aid—it is a life-changing opportunity. It allows displaced and at-risk students to rebuild their academic journeys, gain world-class education, and develop skills that can contribute meaningfully to global recovery and development.
Studying at UCL also provides access to:
- Global academic networks
- Career development support
- Research-driven learning environments
- A diverse and inclusive student community
Conclusion
If you are an international student affected by conflict and seeking a fully funded Master’s scholarship in the UK, the UCL Humanitarian Scholarship 2026 is an opportunity you should not miss. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your documents early, and submit both your admission and scholarship applications on time.
Deadline: May 7, 2026
