The Unite Foundation Scholarship helps care leavers and estranged students in the UK. It gives you free housing at university. No rent or bills for up to three years. The Unite Foundation, a charity, runs this program. They work with over 29 universities in England and Scotland.
Benefits of the Scholarship
Here’s what you get:
- Free student housing from Unite Students for up to three years, including holidays.
- No rent, bills, or deposits.
- A place to stay all year, even after graduation.
- Support from the Unite Foundation team.
- A community of students like you.
Eligibility Requirements
You can apply if:
- You’re a care leaver or estranged from your parents.
- You’re a UK home student.
- You’re studying at a partner university.
- You get student finance or NHS funding.
- It’s your first undergraduate degree
You Can Also Apply For:
- EPFL Switzerland Social Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)
- Government of Scotland Scholarship 2025 | Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships
- Swansea University Sanctuary Scholarship In UK 2025
Important Dates
- Opens: January 1, 2025
- Closes: June 13, 2025
- Notification: July 3, 2025
Partner Universities
Some universities include:
- University College London (UCL)
- King’s College London
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Bristol
- Manchester Metropolitan University
- Queen Mary University of London
- Sheffield Hallam University
- University of the West of England (UWE)
- De Montfort University
Check the full list on the Unite Foundation website.
Impact of the Scholarship
Over 800 students have used this scholarship to attend university. It helps care leavers finish their degrees. One student said, “It gave me hope I’d lost years ago.”
Community and Support for Scholars
You’ll join the “This is Us” group. It’s run by students like you. There’s also “All of Us,” connecting care-experienced students across the UK. Make friends and get support.
How to Apply
Follow these steps:
- Check if you’re eligible.
- Apply to a partner university.
- Get proof of your status (like a letter from your local authority).
- Fill out the online form on the Unite Foundation website.
- Submit by June 13, 2025.
- Wait for a decision by July 3, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can international students apply? No, only UK home students.
- What’s the housing like? En-suite rooms in shared flats by Unite Students.
- Can current students apply? Yes, if it’s your first degree.
- Do I reapply yearly? Yes, for up to three years.
Additional Resources
- Apply through the Portal here:
Unite Foundation Scholarship Public Guidance PDF
Tips for Applying
- Start early.
- Check your documents.
- Be honest.
- Ask the Unite Foundation for help if needed.
Take your first step to university today!
