Statement on Syrian students in the UK
Latest information and advice for students and universities affected by the current situation in Syria.
A number of students and universities have been affected by the current situation in Syria. We are working with Universities UK Higher Education International Unit to identify ways to enable students from Syria to continue their studies in the UK.
We are not aware that any students have been removed from their courses as a direct result of the political situation in Syria and the impact this has on their ability to access funding.
The government appreciates the potential challenges faced by students living in the UK who wish to receive money from countries that are subject to financial sanctions and looks favourably on licence applications to enable the financing of education. All applications are considered on a case by case basis and nationality is not a factor in any licensing decision.
Syrian students within the UK wishing to receive money from or via a designated Syrian entity should apply to the Treasury by email for a licence, setting out the amount and purpose of the transaction as well as the individuals, organisations and banks involved.
We recommend that universities and scholarship awarding bodies use their own discretion over fees, and, where possible, use their welfare and hardship funds to help support these students. In some cases universities have temporarily suspended fees or provided financial support to students. We would urge students to speak to their University.
For students studying through the Syrian Higher Education Capacity Building Project (HECBP), Joanna Newman, Director, UK Higher Education International Unit, has confirmed that all partner institutions have waived or deferred fees. Students on this programme can also contact the British Council hardship fund, which gives out grants to cover living costs for people with scholarships, if appropriate.