Education for Asylum Seeker Children in the UK
What you need to know
- •All children aged 5-16 have a legal right to free education in the UK.
- •Asylum seeker children are entitled to free school meals.
- •Schools must provide English language support for children who need it.
- •Local councils must help find a school place for your child.
Children of asylum seekers have the same right to free education as any other child in the UK. Schools must accept them, and additional support is available for those who need help with English or adjusting to the UK education system.
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The Right to Education
Under UK law, every child aged 5 to 16 has the right to free, full-time education. This right applies equally to children of asylum seekers, refugees, and those with humanitarian protection. Immigration status does not affect a child's right to attend school.
The GOV.UK school admissions page confirms that schools cannot refuse to admit a child based on their immigration status. If you are going through the asylum process, your children should be in school as soon as possible after arriving in the UK.
Finding a School Place
To find a school place for your child:
- Contact your local council. The council has a legal duty to help you find a school place. If you are in asylum accommodation, contact the council for the area where you are living.
- Apply directly to schools. You can also approach local schools directly. Use the GOV.UK school finder to search for schools near you.
- Provide basic information. You will need your child's date of birth and your current address. You do not need to provide immigration documents.
If a school says it is full, the council must still find an alternative place. Your child should not be out of school for more than a few weeks after arriving.
Free School Meals
Children of asylum seekers who receive asylum support qualify for free school meals. To claim:
- Tell the school that you receive asylum support
- Provide your asylum support reference number or a letter from the Home Office confirming your asylum support
- The school will arrange the free meals
See our free school meals guide for more on eligibility across different visa types.
English Language Support
Many children arriving in the UK will need help with English. Schools are required to support children who speak English as an additional language (EAL). This support may include:
- Specialist EAL teachers or teaching assistants
- Small group language sessions
- Bilingual support staff or interpreters
- Adapted teaching materials
Schools receive additional funding through the EAL factor in the school funding formula. Your child should not be refused a place because they do not speak English.
Special Educational Needs
If your child has special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), they have the same rights as any other child. The school must assess their needs and provide appropriate support. If your child needs an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), the council must arrange one regardless of immigration status.
See our SEN support guide for detailed information.
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Early Years (Under 5)
Children of asylum seekers are entitled to 15 hours per week of free early education from age 3. Some 2-year-olds may also qualify for free early education if the family receives asylum support. Contact your local council for details.
Education for 16 to 18 Year Olds
Young people aged 16 to 18 can continue in education. They can:
- Stay at school for sixth form (Years 12 and 13)
- Attend a further education college
- Take an apprenticeship (if they have the right to work)
There is no tuition fee for 16-18 education in state-funded schools and colleges. Some colleges may ask for proof of residency, but they should accept your asylum seeker documentation.
Higher Education (University)
Asylum seekers can apply to university, but access to student finance is limited. Key points:
- Asylum seekers are generally classified as international students, meaning higher tuition fees
- They are not usually eligible for UK student finance (loans and grants)
- Some universities offer scholarships or fee waivers specifically for asylum seekers
- Organisations like the Refugee Education UK and the STAR Network can help with applications
If you receive refugee status or humanitarian protection, you become eligible for home fee status and student finance.
Practical Tips
- Enrol early. Contact schools as soon as you arrive in your asylum accommodation area.
- School uniform. If you cannot afford school uniform, ask the school about their hardship fund or contact local charities for help.
- Transport. If the school is far from your accommodation, the council may provide free transport. Ask the council about home-to-school transport.
- Healthcare at school. School nurses can help with health checks and vaccinations. See our NHS access for asylum seekers guide.
- Mental health. Children who have experienced trauma may need additional support. Schools can refer to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). See our mental health guide.
If Your Asylum Claim Is Refused
If your asylum claim is refused, your children still have the right to attend school while you remain in the UK. This right continues until the family leaves the UK.
Further Resources
For official guidance on school admissions, visit GOV.UK. For information on legal aid for asylum seekers, see our dedicated guide.
Related guides:
This guide is general immigration information, not immigration advice under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an IAA-authorised adviser or an SRA-regulated immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.
Related guides
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.