For displaced individuals seeking access to quality education, exploring scholarships for refugees is vital. Often, students compelled to leave their home countries find it difficult to start over in a new country.
However, scholarships provide the necessary support allowing them to focus on their education, and build a brighter future. In this blog post, you will discover funding programs specifically created to support refugees in the USA and the UK.
Top Scholarships for refugees in the USA and UK
International Rescue Committee Scholarship Program
The International Rescue Committee Scholarship Program is one of the forms of support the IRC renders to refugees in America. As a non-profit organization, it functions through partnerships with other organizations.
This program assists immigrants, refugees, and other undocumented individuals. From tuition to living costs down to educational materials, awardees get academic support to support their education.
Additionally, the organization provides students access to tutoring sessions to improve their academic performance. Students will also benefit from the resettlement assistance and vocational training opportunities that come with the scholarship.
Value: $3500
Also Read: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for foreign students and artists 2025/2026
Council for At-Risk Academics Fellowship Program
One of the top scholarships for refugees is commonly known as CARA, this program caters to displaced academics pursuing education in the UK. This may be your opportunity to continue your education if you are facing threats or conflicts in your home country.
Students will be introduced to a safe learning environment, career development opportunities, and professional connections. In return the program expects beneficiaries to contribute to research projects in host institutions.
Like other scholarship programs, preference will be given to academically excellent individuals. Also, contributions to the society may earn you extra points in the application process.
University of Sanctuary Scholarship
UK institutions that belong to the Universities of Sanctuary provide scholarships to both asylum-seeking students and refugees. These institutions offer financial aid for tuition fees, living expenses, and accommodation.
In addition, students benefit from language proficiency, legal assistance, and cultural integration experience. Some institutions offering this scholarship include the University of Edinburgh, Newcastle University, and the University of Bristol.
Refugee Dream Center Scholarship
As the name suggests, The Refugee Dream Center Scholarship is especially for individuals who have been forced to abandon their home country. The foundation provides support to refugees who are not under the government’s payroll.
Students are also equipped with the resources to achieve their academic aspirations. With the empowerment education provides, they can easily integrate and create the life they desire.
Dream U.S Opportunity scholarship
Dream U.S Opportunity scholarship sponsors undocumented students and people with Temporary Protected Status in America. This is a renewable scholarship only for students who demonstrate financial need. With this, they can focus on getting a quality education and building a life in their new location.
The scholarship covers tuition, housing, meals, and living costs. Applicants must be willing to enroll in a full-time Bachelor’s program at an opportunity partner College. It is important to note that this scholarship is out of bounds for U.S. citizens.
Value: $80,000
Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship
The Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship was established in 1997 by Hungarian American philanthropists. The goal is to empower new Americans and immigrants on their academic journey.
Thirty applicants are selected annually through a merit-based scholarship. In other words, only deserving applicants who have excelled in academics or have other unique attributes will be considered for this position.
While the application process may be very strict, it comes with enormous benefits. Students will enjoy financial aid, mentorship opportunities, and alumni connections.
This fellowship covers different fields, including medicine, law, and arts. At the end of their programs, beneficiaries are expected to make a significant impact on the US.
Value: $90,000
