At Metropolitan College, we are committed to providing inclusive education for all, including international students seeking a brighter future through our English language courses. We’re particularly proud to support Ukrainian students, offering guidance and opportunities to help them succeed despite the challenges they may face due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Our campus at Kirkdale House, Leytonstone, is welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, including those under the UK Government’s Ukraine schemes, who may qualify for home fee status and various forms of student financial support.
Ukrainian Students: Eligibility for Home Fees and Student Finance
Students who have been granted a visa under the Ukraine schemes, as well as certain family members, are eligible for home fee status and student finance when studying an approved course at an accredited UK higher education institution. This means you may qualify for:
- Tuition fee loans
- Maintenance loans
- Grants and bursaries
- Additional allowances for specific needs, such as disabilities
To confirm your eligibility, it’s important to check with the relevant student finance body in your part of the UK:
- Student Finance England
- Student Finance Wales
- Student Awards Agency Scotland
- Student Finance NI
For tailored advice, the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) offers helpful resources and a student advice helpline.
English Language Courses for International Students
At Metropolitan College, our ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) program is designed to support non-native English speakers, helping students achieve fluency, confidence, and practical communication skills. Our courses are especially valuable for Ukrainian students transitioning to life and education in the UK, offering:
- Comprehensive language support tailored to all proficiency levels
- Flexible schedules to suit personal and professional commitments
- A supportive community of learners from around the world
Extending Your Stay and Continuing Education
For Ukrainian students whose studies extend beyond the duration of their Ukraine scheme visa, there are options to apply for a student visa or extend your leave under the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme, which opens in 2025.
The UK Government has confirmed that students transitioning to a student visa after their Ukraine scheme visa expires will retain their eligibility for home fee status and student finance. This ensures that your educational journey remains uninterrupted.
It’s worth noting that while the Ukraine schemes are free of cost, switching to a student visa involves fees for application and a healthcare surcharge. However, this option may provide additional benefits, such as eligibility for a Graduate visa, enabling you to work in the UK after completing your studies.
Scholarships, Hardship Funds, and Twinning Initiatives
Many UK universities, including Metropolitan College, offer scholarships and hardship funds to support students from Ukraine. These can help cover tuition and living costs, making education more accessible.
Additionally, the UK-Ukraine Twinning Initiative pairs UK institutions with Ukrainian universities, offering unique benefits such as:
- Recognition of Ukrainian course credits
- Summer schools for catching up on missed studies
- Mental health support tailored to students affected by the conflict
If you are studying remotely from the UK with a Ukrainian institution, this program provides opportunities for collaboration and continued learning.
Well-Being and Mental Health Support
We understand that adjusting to life in a new country, especially during difficult times, can be challenging. At Metropolitan College, we prioritize the well-being of our students. Ukrainian students can access:
- Counseling and mental health resources through organizations like Student Minds, Opora, and Barnardo’s Ukrainian Support Helpline
- Community support groups to help with resettlement and mental health challenges
- On-campus guidance for academic and personal issues
Building a Brighter Future
At Metropolitan College, we’re dedicated to empowering Ukrainian students to succeed in their educational and personal journeys. Our English language courses, financial guidance, and community support create an environment where students can thrive.
If you’re a Ukrainian student or know someone who could benefit from our programs, we invite you to visit our campus at Kirkdale Road, Leytonstone, or contact us for more information. Together, we can help you build a brighter future.
For additional support, explore these resources:
- UKCISA: Advice on student finance and visas
- Student Finance England: Financial support guidance
- Twinning Ukraine Initiative: Opportunities for collaboration with UK universities
Join us at Metropolitan College—your journey to success begins here.