Adi and Isca Wittenberg Scholarship: A Lifeline for Aspiring Engineers

The Adi and Isca Wittenberg Scholarship offers a unique opportunity for young individuals seeking asylum in the UK who wish to pursue an undergraduate degree in engineering. This scholarship aims to support those who face financial barriers due to their immigration status, providing them with the means to achieve their academic and career aspirations. The award is specifically dedicated to engineering students for the 2026 intake, honoring the legacy of Adi and Isca Wittenberg, who themselves overcame significant challenges to build successful lives and careers.

Understanding the Scholarship’s Purpose

The Adi and Isca Wittenberg Scholarship was established to help young people from asylum-seeking backgrounds who are ineligible for standard UK Student Finance. Many individuals in this situation possess the drive and talent to succeed but lack the financial resources to pursue higher education. This scholarship directly addresses that gap, enabling them to enroll in their first undergraduate degree or equivalent professional qualification. The focus on engineering for the 2026 cycle highlights a commitment to supporting fields critical for innovation and societal progress.

The Story Behind the Scholarship

Adi and Isca Wittenberg were refugees who fled Nazi Germany at the age of 16. Despite facing war and financial hardship, they were determined to continue their education. Isca pursued social work and became a psychotherapist, driven by a desire to help others help themselves. Adi dedicated seven years to studying mechanical engineering in night school, eventually earning his degree and building a successful career. Their journey exemplifies resilience and the transformative power of education, inspiring the creation of this scholarship.

Scholarship Benefits and Coverage

The scholarship provides financial support to cover home tuition fees and associated study costs. The exact amount awarded depends on each candidate’s specific circumstances and where they choose to study in the UK. The Wittenberg Trust assists successful applicants in requesting home fee status from their chosen universities. It is important to note that the final scholarship award is contingent upon the university agreeing to offer home tuition fees.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be considered for the Adi and Isca Wittenberg Scholarship, applicants must meet several key requirements. Firstly, they must be currently residing in the UK. Secondly, they need to have applied for an undergraduate course at a UK university through UCAS, or already be enrolled in one. A crucial requirement is that the applicant must be seeking asylum in the UK, or have been granted temporary status such as Limited Leave to Remain, and therefore not have access to UK Student Finance. Applicants must also be under 30 years old when their course begins, and their chosen field of study must be an undergraduate degree in engineering.

The Application Process

The application window for the 2026 intake is open, with a strict deadline of 5 PM BST on May 29, 2026. Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to submit their applications promptly. Following the application deadline, interviews for shortlisted candidates are scheduled to take place in July 2026. Successful applicants will be notified after this stage. The application form is available online, and further details about the scholarship can be found on the official website.