Westheimer Scholarship 2026: Support for Asylum-Seeking Students

The Westheimer Scholarship is a valuable opportunity for young people from asylum-seeking backgrounds in the UK. This scholarship aims to support those who are ineligible for standard UK Student Finance but are pursuing their first undergraduate degree in specific health and social care professions. Established by former refugees, the scholarship honors the legacy of Ilse Westheimer, a dedicated social worker.

Understanding the Westheimer Scholarship

The Westheimer Scholarship was created by individuals who found support in the UK after fleeing Nazi Germany. It is named after Ilse Westheimer, who made significant contributions as a social worker and trainer. The scholarship is designed to help students who face financial barriers due to their immigration status, allowing them to focus on their studies and future careers in vital public service roles.

Scholarship Benefits and Award Details

Successful applicants to the Westheimer Scholarship will have their home tuition fees covered, along with associated study costs. The exact amount awarded will depend on each student’s unique circumstances and where they attend university. The Trust assists recipients in obtaining “home fee” status from their chosen institution, which is a key requirement for receiving the scholarship. Ultimately, the final award is contingent upon securing this home tuition fee offer from a UK university.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be considered for the Westheimer Scholarship, applicants must meet several specific requirements. First, they must be currently residing in the UK. Second, they need to have applied for an undergraduate course through UCAS, or already be enrolled in one. Crucially, applicants must be seeking asylum, or have a temporary immigration status such as Limited Leave to Remain, Calais Leave, Discretionary Leave to Remain, Section 67 leave, or UASC leave. This status must prevent them from accessing UK Student Finance. Applicants also need to be under 30 years old when their course begins. Finally, the scholarship is restricted to students pursuing degrees in medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, health and social care, social work, or related health or social care professions.

Application Process and Timeline

The application window for the 2026 intake of the Westheimer Scholarship closes on May 29, 2026, at 5 PM BST. Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to submit their applications before this deadline. Following the application period, interviews for shortlisted candidates are scheduled to take place in July 2026. Prospective applicants can find the application form and further details through the provided links.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Westheimer Scholarship?

The Westheimer Scholarship is a UK-based financial award for students seeking asylum or holding specific temporary immigration statuses, helping them fund their first undergraduate degree in health and social care professions.

Who is eligible for the Westheimer Scholarship?

Eligibility requires residency in the UK, application or enrollment in a UCAS course, a specific immigration status that prevents access to UK Student Finance, being under 30, and pursuing a degree in medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, health/social care, or social work.

What does the scholarship cover?

The scholarship covers home tuition fees and associated study costs, with the final award amount depending on individual circumstances and university offers.