Since the conflict in Sudan erupted in April 2023, many British citizens attending universities in Sudan have had their education severely disrupted. Upon returning to the UK, these individuals have been granted exemptions from the residence test and have been given access to various benefits. However, higher education has been notably excluded from these exemptions. 

Currently, British citizens returning from Sudan must either wait three years to qualify as home students, thereby delaying their studies, or bear the financial burden of paying overseas tuition fees. This is an unreasonable expectation, particularly for individuals who have fled war and lost most, if not all, of their savings.

Unlike Afghan and Ukrainian nationals who have fled similar conflicts and have been granted explicit exemptions, classified as home students upon their arrival in the UK, British students returning from Sudan have not received similar support.

We urgently call on the UK government to extend residence requirement exemptions to include educational purposes. This change will allow these returning students to continue their education without financial hardship and enable them to contribute positively to our society.

Support Our Call for Fairness:

Please sign this petition urging the UK government to address this issue and provide equitable access to education for all British citizens returning from conflict zones. Your support can make a significant difference in ensuring these students are treated fairly and given the opportunity to succeed.