UK Moves to Evacuate Nine Gaza Students with British University Scholarships

Published: 21 August ‘2025. The English Chronicle Desk

The UK government has announced plans to facilitate the evacuation of nine students from Gaza who have been awarded full scholarships to study at British universities, following months of advocacy from MPs, academics, and campaigners. These students, all recipients of the prestigious Chevening scholarships funded by the Foreign Office, were recognized for their academic potential and leadership qualities.

For the students, the announcement brings a mixture of relief and anticipation, although many others remain stranded in Gaza awaiting similar support. The breakthrough comes after sustained efforts from more than 100 MPs, university leaders, and civil society organisations, who highlighted the urgent need for intervention. In total, over 80 Palestinian students have offers from UK universities, including 40 with full scholarships.

Dr Nora Parr, a researcher at the University of Birmingham coordinating support efforts, described the announcement as a bittersweet moment. “There is relief that the urgency of these students’ situation is finally being acknowledged,” she said. “But our hearts go out to those still waiting. We hope this marks only the beginning of wider support.”

One of the students, Khulud, 28, who has secured a place at University College London for a master’s degree in dental health, expressed her overwhelming gratitude. “Receiving the news about the evacuation was emotional. I hope this paves the way for the others still waiting to continue their studies,” she said.

The students have been unable to travel due to a Home Office requirement for biometric registration for visa applications. The UK-authorised biometrics centre in Gaza closed in October 2023, and travel to neighbouring countries for registration has proved impossible. Other European nations, including Italy, Ireland, and France, have already evacuated students under similar circumstances.

A UK government spokesperson affirmed the country’s commitment to supporting the scholars: “We are working urgently to assist Chevening scholars in Gaza with offers from British universities to safely exit and begin their studies in the UK. The situation on the ground is extremely challenging, but we are doing everything possible to ensure their safe passage.”

Khulud emphasized the significance of the support, both for herself and her peers. “Through all these struggles, our voices are finally being heard. Nothing we have endured has been in vain. I hope the remaining students are recognised and receive the support they deserve to achieve their academic goals.”

As the UK works to secure the safe evacuation of these scholars, attention remains on the larger group of Palestinian students awaiting similar assistance, highlighting both the humanitarian and educational stakes in the ongoing efforts.