University expands scholarship scheme

Posted on Thursday 7 December 2017

The University already has five students enrolled on the scholarship, but has now agreed to expand the scheme and help fund an additional two asylum-seeking students each year for the next three years. 

The Equal Access Scholarships provide an annual living costs bursary of £10,660 funded by philanthropy and matched by the University with a complete fee waiver.

The scheme was set up by the University in response to Europe’s ongoing migrant crisis and is supported by a range of donors including alumni and staff.

Case study

Current Equal Access Scholar, Maryam Taher, is studying for an integrated Masters in BioMedSci.

Maryam came to the UK from Iraq as a child and started school in Year 9. When she applied to UCAS she realised she wasn’t eligible for home fees or a loan from the Student Loan Company. Without the Equal Access Scholarship, she simply wouldn’t be here.

She said: “This is an amazing opportunity for me. The scholarship is life-changing as it has given me an amazing opportunity to continue my education and pursue my dreams.

“Everyone is treated the same, there are no differences between us. I feel at home and welcomed by everyone.”

Removing barriers

Maryam hopes to specialise in haematology after completing her studies at York.

The University of York’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Koen Lamberts, said:  “We are committed to removing barriers to equality through education and I am delighted that we are able to expand this scheme.

“The scholarships provide a safe and secure environment and allow people fleeing conflict a place to study, research and prosper - often students who wouldn’t otherwise be able to study at university. 

“The scheme has proved an inspiration to increasing numbers of donors, including staff, students, alumni and friends, and reflect the University’s core values of justice and equality.”