The Aston University Ernest Edward Scholarship 2026 is now open, and it is one of the most generous sanctuary scholarships available in the United Kingdom today. Specifically, this fully funded award covers tuition fees, accommodation, and living costs for asylum seekers and refugees who want to study at Aston University in Birmingham. In short, if you are seeking refuge in the UK and dream of a university education, this scholarship was created for you.
What Is the Aston University Ernest Edward Scholarship 2026?
The Ernest Edward Scholarship is a sanctuary scholarship offered by Aston University in Birmingham, England. Furthermore, it is named in memory of Ernest Edward Crummack — the grandfather of the generous donor who set up the fund. Ernest Edward Crummack left school at just 12 years old to work in a coal mine. One hundred years later, this scholarship honours his memory by giving young refugees and asylum seekers the chance to access higher education that would otherwise be out of reach.
As a result, Aston University offers up to four scholarships each year under this scheme. Each award is fully funded, covering tuition fees, on-campus accommodation, and living costs throughout the full duration of the chosen course.
Key Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host University | Aston University, Birmingham, UK |
| Scholarship Name | Ernest Edward Scholarship |
| Number of Awards | Up to 4 per year |
| Undergraduate Value | Up to £45,000 (full course duration) |
| Postgraduate Value | Up to £20,000 (full course duration) |
| Study Level | Undergraduate and Postgraduate Taught |
| Location | Birmingham, United Kingdom |
| Application Opens | 9 March 2026 |
| Target Group | Asylum seekers and refugees in the UK |
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
This is a fully funded scholarship. In other words, selected scholars do not need to worry about the cost of studying or living in Birmingham. Specifically, the Ernest Edward Scholarship 2026 includes:
- Full tuition fee waiver for the entire course
- On-campus accommodation support throughout the programme
- Living cost support — worth up to £25,000 in total
- Language assistance for students who need extra English support
- Professional mentoring from dedicated Aston University staff
- Monthly group lunches and one-to-one support meetings
- Access to Aston Students’ Union services and community
Moreover, the scholarship team assigns each scholar a named personal contact. Therefore, you will always have someone to turn to at every stage of your studies — whether by email, video call, or face-to-face.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements
This scholarship is specifically for students who are already in the UK but cannot access standard student finance because of their immigration status. To qualify, you must meet at least one of the following conditions:
- Be a current asylum seeker in the UK, OR
- Be the partner or dependant of an asylum seeker, OR
- Be an unsuccessful asylum seeker or refugee who has been granted Discretionary Leave to Remain (DLR) or another form of temporary permission to stay in the UK
In addition, you must also:
- Have applied to study an eligible course at Aston University
- Be based in the UK at the time of application
- Be applying to a course that qualifies under the scheme
Note: Most three-year undergraduate and one-year postgraduate taught courses are eligible. However, certain courses such as Medicine and Nursing are not included in the scheme.
Which Courses Are Eligible?
Most undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes at Aston University qualify for this scholarship. For example, courses across the following schools are generally eligible:
- Aston Business School
- College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- College of Health and Life Sciences
- School of Law and Social Sciences
- School of Languages and Social Sciences
However, since eligibility can vary by course, it is always best to confirm directly with the Ernest Edward Scholarship team before applying.
How to Apply for the Ernest Edward Scholarship 2026
The application process follows a clear four-step path. Therefore, follow each step carefully to avoid missing out.
Step 1 — Apply for Admission at Aston University First, apply to an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate taught course at Aston University through the standard admissions process. Make sure your chosen course qualifies under the scholarship scheme.
Step 2 — Wait for the Application Window to Open Next, wait until the official application period begins. Scholarship application forms are only available from 9 March 2026 onwards. Do not email the team before this date, as forms will not be available yet.
Step 3 — Request the Application Form From 9 March 2026, send an email to the Ernest Edward Scholarship team at EEscholarship@aston.ac.uk to request the official application form. At this stage, you should also confirm your current residence in the UK.
Step 4 — Complete and Submit Your Application Finally, fill out the form carefully with all required details and supporting documents. Submit your completed application before the closing deadline. The team will then contact you by email at each stage to update you on the outcome.
⚠️ Late applications will not be considered, so plan ahead and submit well before the deadline.
About Aston University
Aston University is a public research university located in the heart of Birmingham — the UK’s second-largest city. Founded in 1895 and granted university status in 1966, Aston has built a strong reputation for its focus on science, technology, business, and employability. Additionally, the university welcomes students from over 120 countries each year and is known for its close ties with industry and its commitment to social inclusion.
For refugee and asylum-seeking students, Aston goes beyond financial support. In fact, the university prides itself on providing both financial and personal care to every Ernest Edward Scholar throughout their entire student journey.
Why Apply for the Ernest Edward Scholarship 2026?
Beyond the financial support, this scholarship offers something even more valuable — a sense of belonging. Specifically, scholars become part of a tight-knit community supported by the university at every step. Furthermore, the professional mentoring, language support, and career guidance give scholars a strong foundation to build their future in the UK.
In addition, a degree from Aston University carries real weight with employers. As a result, graduates are well positioned for careers in business, engineering, health, law, and technology both in the UK and globally.
How to Apply — Official Link
Apply for the Ernest Edward Scholarship at Aston University
Remember — email EEscholarship@aston.ac.uk from 9 March 2026 to request your application form after securing an offer from Aston University.