Cardiff Metropolitan University is steadfast in its commitment to inclusivity and support for individuals seeking sanctuary in the UK. Since 2017, the university has offered the Sanctuary Award, a scholarship designed to provide displaced individuals with the opportunity to pursue higher education. This initiative underscores Cardiff Met’s dedication to creating a welcoming academic environment for all.(Cardiff Metropolitan University, Displaced Student Opportunities, Cardiff Metropolitan University)
What is the Cardiff Met Sanctuary Award?
The Sanctuary Award is a comprehensive scholarship program aimed at asylum seekers, refugees, and individuals under specific humanitarian protection schemes. It offers:(Displaced Student Opportunities, Cardiff Metropolitan University)
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver: Covers the entire duration of the undergraduate or postgraduate course.(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
- Financial Support: Assistance with study-related costs, including travel and books.(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
- Daily Meal Allowance: Provides meals on campus to ensure students’ well-being.(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
- Laptop Loan: Access to a laptop for the duration of the study program.(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
- Dedicated Mentorship: Personal support to help students navigate academic and personal challenges.
Additionally, Cardiff Met has implemented a policy to charge asylum seekers the same tuition fees as local students, rather than the higher international fees, making higher education more accessible .(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Sanctuary Award, applicants must:
- Immigration Status: Be an asylum seeker, have discretionary leave to remain or humanitarian protection, be a partner/dependent of an asylum seeker, be a refugee, or be under the Homes for Ukraine/Ukraine Family scheme.(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
- University Offer: Hold a conditional or unconditional offer from Cardiff Metropolitan University for entry in September 2025.(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
- Reference: Provide a reference from a school, college, community, or voluntary group, or from a sponsor under the Homes for Ukraine/family scheme.(Displaced Student Opportunities)
- Residency: Live within a commutable distance to the university and not require accommodation support.(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
Applicants must meet all these criteria and be able to verify their circumstances .(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
Application Process
Applications for the September 2025 intake open on Monday, 3rd March 2025, and close on Tuesday, 1st July 2025, at 5:00 PM. Prospective students should:(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
- Obtain a University Offer: Apply to Cardiff Metropolitan University and secure a conditional or unconditional offer.
- Review Guidance Notes: Thoroughly read the Sanctuary Award Application Guidance Notes before applying.(Cardiff Metropolitan University)
- Submit Application: Complete the Sanctuary Award Application Form and submit it along with the required documents via email to sanctuary@cardiffmet.ac.uk.(Displaced Student Opportunities)
For detailed information and to access the application materials, visit the Sanctuary Award page.
A Legacy of Support
In 2018, Cardiff Metropolitan University was recognized as the first University of Sanctuary in Wales, highlighting its efforts to create a safe and inclusive environment for those fleeing persecution and conflict . The Sanctuary Award is a testament to the university’s ongoing commitment to providing educational opportunities to those in need.(City of Sanctuary UK)
For further assistance or inquiries, contact the Sanctuary Team at sanctuary@cardiffmet.ac.uk.