Below is a step-by-step guide to help you understand what to expect from start to finish.
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Before beginning your application, ensure that you meet the basic requirements:
- You must hold (or be the dependent of someone who holds) one of the following immigration statuses under UK law: Refugee, Humanitarian Protection, Indefinite Leave to Remain, Section 67 Leave, Calais Leave, Stateless Leave, or Afghan Schemes (ARAP / ACRS).
- You must be under the age of 35 at the time of your application.
- You must be enrolled in, or accepted (with either an unconditional or conditional offer), a full-time undergradudate or postgraduate programme at a UK university in Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, or one of the following scientific disciplines: Biomedical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, or Psychology.
- You must be eligible for UK Student Finance
- You must demonstrate financial need with supporting documentation.
- You must be reside full-time in the UK.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, please read the FAQ carefully or seek advice before beginning.
Step 2: Prepare your application
Gather the information you will need:
- Your personal details.
- Proof of your immigration status (Home Office letter, Biometric Residence Permit, etc.).
- Evidence of Proof of Refugee Status.
- Details about your financial situation.
- Your personal statement, explaining your background, goals, and why you are applying.
We recommend that you prepare your answers in a separate document before starting the online form.
Step 3: Complete and submit your application
You must complete the online application form available on the Phoenix Fellowship website. Please remember:
- Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered.
- Applications submitted by email or post will not be accepted unless you have agreed exceptional circumstances with us in advance.
Step 4: What happens after you submit?
Once the application deadline passes:
- All applications will be carefully reviewed by the Fellowship.
- If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to an interview.
- Whether you are shortlisted or not, you will be informed of the outcome by email.
Step 5: Preparing for the interview
If you are shortlisted:
- You will be invited to an online interview with two or three members of the Academic Advisory Board and a current or former Phoenix Fellow.
- The interview is friendly and supportive. It is not intended to catch you out.
- You will be asked questions about your background, your studies, your interests, and your aspirations.
You may wish to practice by having a mock interview with a teacher, support worker, or friend.
Step 6: Receiving the outcome
You will normally be contacted within four to six weeks of your interview with a decision. If you are successful:
- You will be formally offered a Phoenix Fellowship.
- You will be asked to provide your bank details and any additional information needed to begin your Fellowship.
If you are unsuccessful, you will be encouraged to seek other sources of support and, where appropriate, you may be invited to apply again in the following year.
Step 7: Receiving your Fellowship
Once accepted:
- You will receive financial support (up to a maximum of £20,000 per year, depending on your circumstances).
- You will join The Phoenix Fellowship community and may be offered additional mentorship or peer support.
- You will be expected to maintain good academic standing and stay in contact with the Fellowship during your studies.
Step 8: After you graduate
Phoenix Fellows who complete their degree successfully may receive continued support for up to six months to assist with their transition to employment or further study. You will also be invited to give back to The Phoenix Fellowship by mentoring new Fellows and contributing to the community.
Apply Today
The Phoenix Fellowship is a selective programme. If you are eligible and ready to apply, we encourage you to do so with confidence. We look forward to reading your application.