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If you're applying to higher education as a refugee, asylum seeker or with an insecure immigration status, there may be support available to help you. This page has been created in collaboration with Refugee Education UK, STAR Network and We Belong.

Going to university or college is a major milestone for students and their families, marking a time of change, excitement, and new independence. We’ve gathered both qualitative and quantitative insights to understand what they really need from their institutions during this pivotal time.

Find out what support and funding is available to estranged students in Scotland.

There are many ways you can study, with different work combinations and locations, including distance or work-based learning, and more.

If your relationship with your parents or carers has broken down (also known as ‘estranged’), there are people you can turn to for help when you research your options, start your application, or think about your transition to university or college.

Once you’ve made the decision that HE is right for you, you might start thinking about how you’re going to prepare to study at university or college.

It’s important to know what mental health and wellbeing support is available to you during your studies – and how to access it.

It's really important to tell your university or college about your individual needs as early as possible – this will ensure any adjustments and support are in place before you arrive.

On your UCAS application, you can share a mental or health condition with your university. This’ll help you get the information and help you may need while at university and help put you at ease.

If you're responsible for providing unpaid care to a family member, partner or friend, you may be able to get extra support during your studies.

Universities and colleges welcome students from a diverse range of backgrounds and experience. If you choose to disclose that you are a student with an imprisoned parent it will not negatively impact your application – it gives context to your circumstances.

Students who have spent time in care are entitled to support to help them access higher education. Here are some practical ways you can support care experienced students research their options and prepare for their next steps.

If a student's parent(s) or carer(s) is serving as a Regular or Reservist in the UK Armed Forces, or has done so in the past, their experience of going to university may be different to their non-Service peers. This guide explains how you can practically support Service children along their journey to higher education.

Students with imprisoned parents are often overlooked, but they may face challenges when considering their next steps and making choices about their futures. This guide will help you offer practical ways to help them explore their options and get the right support.

Young people who are considering higher education but do not have support from either of their parents due to a breakdown in their relationship (also known as being ‘estranged’) may encounter challenges in their journey. Here we outline the ways in which you can help students in at each stage and explain what support they may be able to access.

We have a wealth of resources to help ease any worries or concerns you may have about the application process.