Questions of equal access to higher education are everywhere. Education is, supposedly, a right and not a privilege. But with University fees trebling and the cost of living (especially in London) rocketing, access to higher education has fast become a question of economics.
I don't believe that your financial situation should ever act as a barrier to accessing higher education. This is why I'm supporting UCLU Student Action for Refugee's campaign for equal access to higher education at UCL for those seeking protection.
Many asylum seekers and those with discretionary leave to remain are left without permanent legal status for years. Whilst those with discretionary leave to remain are able to work in the UK, they often encounter difficulties in securing employment. Asylum seekers are unable to work, and are forced to rely on state-provided financial support, amounting to a measly £36 per week.
Now, whilst asylum seekers and those with discretionary leave to remain are 'technically' able to apply for and attend British universities, the reality is somewhat different. As they do not have legal status in the UK, they are expected to pay international fees and have no access to bursaries or other forms of financial support. Someone living off £36 per week is expected to pay up to £30,000 per year in University fees; the figures just don't add up.
Out-pricing asylum seekers and those with discretionary leave to remain from higher education is a symptom of a very unfair University system. Reclassifying asylum seekers and those with discretionary leave to remain as home students and opening up access to bursaries and financial support is a question of equal access and not special treatment. Now, that's not too much to ask, is it?
Lorna Gledhill, Communications Officer, UCLU Student Action for Refugees
Learn more about how to get involved the campaign here, or come along to our launch event on Tuesday 20th November.
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