Enhancing Education Opportunities

UNHCR UK

UNHCR conducted a study in 2023 which explored the barriers faced by students and universities in ensuring that education is accessible to refugees coming to study in the UK. 

The findings unpack the challenges faced by students and institutions that may prevent refugees from accessing education pathways to the UK and provides recommendations for organisations, universities and the UK Government to overcome these.

The UK has a long history of issuing student visas to individuals from a forced displacement background to come to the UK solely for the purpose of receiving a higher education. However, accessing these opportunities can be difficult due to barriers such as securing proper documentation, evidence of funding and stringent language requirements. In addition, for those that are able to access these safe and regular routes, protection safeguards are not always embedded in their legal status in the UK. Challenges such as uncertainty surrounding their continued stay in the UK, as a result of their graduation, their inability to complete the course or expiry of their national passports, take a toll on the students. 

UNHCR has conducted this assessment with the aim of generating insights on how to improve these pathways for students and to equip organisations, universities and the UK Government to make these opportunities safer and reliable.

The research for this report was carried out by UNHCR UK between March and August 2023. UNHCR UK interviewed nineteen students, nine universities and organisations focusing on refugee education.