The University of Manchester Scholarships Programme offers a life-changing opportunity for students who have been forced to leave their homes due to war or armed conflict. Established in 2022, the programme reflects the university’s strong commitment to social responsibility and its dedication to supporting individuals facing humanitarian crises.
Through this initiative, the university provides talented students with the chance to pursue fully funded undergraduate studies in the United Kingdom. The scholarship is specifically designed to help students who have experienced displacement due to conflict and who face barriers to continuing their higher education.
For the 2026 academic year, the university will award up to six fully funded scholarships to outstanding applicants from conflict-affected regions. This initiative aims to ensure that deserving students can continue their academic journey despite the challenges they have faced.
Scholarship Benefits
The University of Manchester Humanitarian Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support so students can focus entirely on their studies. Selected scholars will receive funding that covers:
- Full tuition fees for the entire undergraduate programme
- Living expenses, including support for accommodation, food, and daily needs
- Visa costs required to study in the UK
This financial support removes major barriers that many displaced students face when attempting to access higher education abroad.
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Key Dates for Manchester Scholarships
Applicants should carefully follow the timeline for the scholarship and course applications:
- UCAS course applications open: 2 September 2025
- Scholarship application opens: 2 February 2026
- Scholarship application deadline: 31 March 2026
- Results announced: End of May 2026
- Studies begin: September 2026
Students are encouraged to prepare their applications early to ensure they meet all requirements and deadlines.
Eligibility Criteria for Manchester Scholarships
To apply for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be at serious risk due to war or armed conflict.
- Have been forced to leave their home country or relocate within their country within the last three years because of conflict.
- Be unable to start or complete a university degree due to their circumstances.
- Have never previously studied in the UK or the European Union.
- Have applied for an undergraduate course starting in September 2026 at the University of Manchester.
- Be able to clearly explain their motivation for studying the chosen course.
- Demonstrate strong academic performance in previous studies.
It is important to note that students currently living in the UK or EU are not eligible to apply for this scholarship.
English Language Requirements
Applicants do not need to provide proof of English language proficiency when applying through UCAS or when submitting the scholarship application.
However, if an applicant receives an offer of admission, they must meet the English language requirements stated in the offer letter. The university accepts several recognized English tests, but it is important to note that Duolingo English Test results are not accepted.
Additionally, the scholarship does not cover pre-sessional English language courses offered by the university.
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The scholarship supports most three-year undergraduate degree programmes offered at the university. However, some programmes are not eligible, including:
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Nursing
- Architecture
Students whose previous education does not meet direct entry requirements may be required to complete a foundation year before starting their bachelor’s degree.
How to Apply for Manchester Scholarships
Applying for the University of Manchester Humanitarian Scholarship involves two main steps.
1. Apply for an Undergraduate Course
Applicants must first apply for an undergraduate programme through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
Course applications for September 2026 entry open on 2 September 2025.
2. Apply for the Scholarship
Once the course application is submitted, applicants can apply separately for the Humanitarian Scholarship through the university’s online application system.
The deadline for the scholarship application is 31 March 2026 at 5:00 PM (BST).
Importantly, applicants do not need to have received an academic offer before applying for the scholarship.
Selection Process
The selection process is designed to be straightforward and accessible:
- No interview is required.
- Applications are reviewed based on eligibility, academic achievements, and personal motivation.
- All applicants will be notified of the final decision by 29 May 2026 via email.
The selection committee’s decision is final.
Final Thoughts
The University of Manchester Humanitarian Scholarship 2026 represents an incredible opportunity for students affected by conflict to rebuild their academic and professional futures. By covering tuition fees, living costs, and visa expenses, the programme removes major financial barriers and allows scholars to pursue world-class education in the UK.
Students who meet the eligibility criteria and have the determination to continue their education despite adversity are strongly encouraged to apply before the 31 March 2026 deadline.
