About the opportunity
Graduate Horizons 2026–2027 is a comprehensive support initiative by the Refugee-Led Research Hub (RLRH) designed for students with displacement backgrounds. Running from November 2026 to April 2027, the programme provides structured guidance through group workshops, application clinics, writing bootcamps, and one-on-one mentorship. It specifically targets applicants aiming for 2027 enrollment at prestigious institutions, including Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners like Oxford, Cambridge, Sciences Po, and UC Berkeley, as well as universities across Africa and West Asia.
Funding and benefits
- Free six-month online mentorship and support
- Pairing with an RLRH mentor or staff member
- Access to structured group workshops and application clinics
- Participation in writing bootcamps
- One-on-one application support
- Guidance on fully funded scholarship schemes worldwide
Who can apply?
- Must have a displacement background (e.g., current/former refugee, asylum seeker, IDP, stateless person, or affected by intergenerational dislocation)
- Hold or be in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree
- Academic results equivalent to a 2:1 classification, 75%, or a 3.0/4.0 GPA
- Proficiency in English and/or French to a professional academic standard
- Planning to submit graduate applications within the next six months for 2027 enrollment
Required documents
- Completed online application form
When to apply
- Application deadline: October 25, 2026, at midnight BST
- Information Session 1: October 8, 2026, at 10:00 AM BST
- Information Session 2: October 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM BST
- Information Session 3: October 22, 2026, at 3:00 PM BST
How to apply
- Register for and attend an optional online information session to learn more about the programme
- Complete the Graduate Horizons Application Form via the provided Google Forms link before the deadline
- Contact the RLRH team via email for any specific questions regarding the process
Additional information
- The programme encourages applications from under-represented groups, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and those in rural or camp settings.
- The focus includes partner universities in the UK, Europe, North America, Africa, and West Asia.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- You are a high-achieving student with a displacement background aiming for top-tier graduate programs.
- You would benefit from structured, long-term mentorship to navigate complex international scholarship and university applications.
- You are targeting specific Mastercard Foundation partner universities or other fully funded global opportunities.
What should you think carefully about?
- The programme requires a six-month commitment from November to April, which may be intensive alongside other responsibilities.
- Applicants must already meet high academic thresholds (3.0 GPA or equivalent) to be eligible.
- The support is specifically for those planning 2027 entry; it is not suitable for those looking for immediate enrollment.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This programme is an excellent fit for individuals seeking to bridge the gap between their current academic standing and admission into world-class graduate institutions. By providing professional-level writing support and direct mentorship, it helps displaced scholars overcome the systemic barriers often encountered in high-stakes application processes. It aligns well with goals of securing full funding for Master's or PhD studies and building a professional academic network.
Our take
Serious candidates with displacement backgrounds and strong academic records should apply to gain a competitive edge in their graduate school journey. It is less suitable for those who do not meet the specific GPA requirements or those not yet ready to commit to the 2027 application cycle.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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