Students at Risk (often abbreviated StAR) refers to special protection and scholarship programmes intended for students whose right to education is endangered by persecution, discrimination, repression, or other serious threats in their home country. These programmes aim to provide a safe space–often abroad–to continue or complete higher education, and to support these students as agents of change.
While details vary by country or institution, the core mission is consistent:
- Protect student activists or human rights defenders
- Offer the opportunity to pursue degrees safely
- Provide financial and institutional support
- Help build networks, solidarity, and capacity for return or continued advocacy
Common Eligibility Criteria #
Below is a list of criteria frequently used by StAR or similar programmes. Meet all or most of these increases your chance (though each programme has its own rules):
| Criterion | Description / Example |
|---|---|
| Student status | You must be admitted or eligible for admission to a higher education programme (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or doctoral level). |
| At-risk status | You must face serious threats to your educational or civil rights in your home country or current place of residence. Examples: persecution for activism, risk of arrest, expulsion from university, inability to safely continue studies. |
| Nationality / residence | Some programmes require you to be from or reside in certain countries (often low-income or “ODA recipient” countries). |
| Nomination or endorsement | In many programmes, you cannot apply directly: you need nomination by a recognized institution, university, embassy, NGO, or human rights group. |
| Academic qualifications | You must meet the academic and language requirements of the host institution (grades, diplomas, language tests). |
| Commitment / motivation | You often have to show a strong statement, prior activism work, and how you plan to contribute (either in your host country or when you return). |
| Duration and return expectations | Some programmes expect you to return to your country or work in your home society after completing studies |
Note: Each programme may waive or adapt certain criteria depending on context (war, mass displacement, emergency). Always check the specific call’s eligibility document.
Google