University of Manchester Humanitarian Scholarship 2026: A Pathway for Students Affected by Conflict
The University of Manchester is offering up to six fully-funded Humanitarian Scholarships for undergraduate students beginning their studies in September 2026. This initiative provides a vital opportunity for individuals who have been displaced by armed conflict to continue their education in a supportive and world-renowned academic environment.
Scholarship Overview
Established in 2022, the University of Manchester Humanitarian Scholarship program aims to support individuals at immediate risk who have been forced to flee their homes due to armed conflict [University of Manchester]. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and visa costs, enabling recipients to focus entirely on their studies.
Key Dates
- Application for courses via UCAS: From September 2, 2025
- Scholarship Application: From February 2, 2026
- Scholarship Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
- Results Announced: End of May 2026
- Start of Studies: September 2026
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the University of Manchester Humanitarian Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at serious risk due to war or conflict.
- Have left your country (or moved within it) in the last three years because of conflict.
- Be unable to start or finish a university degree currently.
- Have never studied in the UK or EU before.
- Have applied for an undergraduate course starting in September 2026 at The University of Manchester.
- Be able to explain why you want to study your chosen course.
- Have a strong academic record.
Applicants currently living in the UK or EU are not eligible [University of Manchester].
Available Programs of Study
The scholarship is available for most undergraduate programs, with some exceptions. Some of the programs available include:
- Biomedical Sciences (BSc)
- Biochemistry (BSc)
- Biology (BSc)
- Neurology (BSc)
- Immunology (BSc)
- Microbiology (BSc)
- Genetics (BSc)
- Environmental Science (BSc)
- Public Health (BSc)
- International Disaster Management & Humanitarian Response (BSc)
- Law (LLB)
- Psychology (BSc)
- Economics (BA Econ / BSc)
- International Business, Finance and Economics (BSc)
- Languages and Cultural Studies (e.g., Arabic, French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese – BA)
- History and Ancient Studies (BA)
- Social Anthropology (BSocSc)
- Sociology (BSocSc)
A complete list of available undergraduate courses for 2026 entry can be found on the University of Manchester website [University of Manchester Undergraduate Courses].
Application Process
The application process involves two stages:
- UCAS Application: Apply for an undergraduate program through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) starting September 2, 2025.
- Scholarship Application: Submit an application for the Humanitarian Scholarship via an online form, starting February 2, 2026. The deadline for scholarship applications is March 31, 2026, at 5 pm (British time).
Applicants do not need to submit an acceptance letter with their scholarship application. Receiving an offer of admission to the University of Manchester does not guarantee a scholarship; a separate application must be submitted [University of Manchester].
Required Documents
- Completed UCAS application form
- Humanitarian Scholarship application form
- Proof of identity (Passport or travel document)
- Previous educational certificates (e.g., high school diploma)
- Personal Statement outlining:
- Reasons for choosing the specific course
- How you continued your education despite difficult circumstances
- Your ability to meet academic and language requirements
- Proof of humanitarian situation (documentation demonstrating forced displacement due to conflict within the past three years)
- Academic letters of recommendation (if required by your chosen course)
English Language Requirements
Proof of English language proficiency is not required during the initial application process. However, if an offer of admission is made, applicants must meet the English language requirements specified in their offer letter [University of Manchester]. The University of Manchester does not accept the Duolingo English Test.
Selection Process
The selection process does not involve personal interviews. Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application via email by May 29, 2026. Decisions are final and cannot be appealed [University of Manchester].
Additional Funding Opportunities
The University of Manchester offers other scholarships and funding opportunities. Asylum seekers and refugees in the UK may be eligible for Article 26 Sanctuary Scholarships. Students with a Ukraine visa may be able to apply for Student Finance England to cover tuition fees and living expenses [University of Manchester].
Contact Information
For inquiries, applicants can use the University’s chatbot, Atlas, or email humanitarian-scholarship@manchester.ac.uk.