Funded by the Unite Foundation and supported by Unite Students, the scholarship is specifically designed for care leavers and estranged students who lack family support while studying at university.

Scholarship Summary Table

About the Unite Foundation Scholarship

The Unite Foundation Scholarship is a life-changing accommodation support scheme that ensures students have a safe, stable place to live throughout their university journey.

Since its launch in 2012, the Unite Foundation has invested millions in helping disadvantaged young people access higher education by removing one of the biggest barriers—housing.

Scholars receive:

• A free ensuite bedroom in student accommodation
• Access to housing all year round, including holidays
• A secure living environment to focus on academic success

This initiative is especially important because many beneficiaries:

• Have been in local authority care
• Are estranged from their families
• May have experienced homelessness before university

Scholarship Benefits

The Unite Foundation Scholarship provides more than just free housing. Benefits include:

Free Accommodation

• Fully covered rent for up to 3 years
• Ensuite room in purpose-built student accommodation
• Shared kitchen and living spaces

Year-Round Housing

• Accommodation available 365 days a year
• Includes holidays (summer, Christmas, etc.)
• Even extends to the post-graduation transition period in some cases

Additional Support

• Mentoring and career development opportunities
• Access to a supportive student community
• Improved academic outcomes due to housing stability

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the Unite Foundation Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a UK (Home) student
• Be 25 years or younger by 1 September 2026
• Be either:
  • A care leaver, or
  • Estranged from both parents
• Hold an offer or be studying at the University of Westminster
• Be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate degree (first degree only)
• Be eligible for UK student finance support

Note: Students undertaking a foundation year are not eligible for this scholarship cycle.

Selection Criteria

The scholarship is competitive and awarded based on:

• Demonstrated lack of family support
• Financial need and personal circumstances
• Eligibility as a care-experienced or estranged student
• Commitment to completing a university degree

Not all eligible applicants receive the award, so strong applications are essential.

Number of Awards

• The Unite Foundation operates a national scholarship scheme across multiple UK universities
• Hundreds of scholarships have been awarded since inception
• Limited slots are available each year, depending on funding and partnerships

Application Deadline

• Deadline: 19 June 2026 (23:59 UK time)

Late applications are typically not accepted, so early submission is strongly recommended.

How to Apply

To apply for the Unite Foundation Scholarship:

1. Apply for admission to the University of Westminster
2. Secure an offer for a full-time undergraduate course
3. Visit the official application portal
4. Complete the online scholarship application
5. Provide evidence of:
   • Care leaver or estranged status
   • Student finance eligibility
6. Submit your application before the deadline

Apply here:
Unite Foundation Scholarship Application Portal

Partner Universities

The Unite Foundation partners with dozens of UK universities, including the University of Westminster, to deliver this scholarship program.

This means eligible students across the UK can benefit from the scheme, provided they meet all requirements.

Why This Scholarship Matters

The Unite Foundation Scholarship stands out because it addresses a critical but often overlooked challenge—student housing insecurity.

Research shows that having a stable home:

• Improves academic performance
• Increases course completion rates
• Enhances overall student wellbeing

For students without family support, this scholarship can be the difference between attending university or not.

FAQs

1. Is the Unite Foundation Scholarship fully funded?

Yes, it covers 100% of accommodation costs for up to three years, including bills.

2. Can international students apply?

No, only UK (Home) students are eligible.

3. Does it cover tuition fees?

No, the scholarship focuses on housing only, not tuition fees.

4. Can I apply if I’m over 25?

No, applicants must be 25 or under by September 2026.

5. Can I stay during holidays?

Yes, accommodation is provided year-round (365 days).

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