The invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation is having a devastating impact on the lives of the Ukrainian people, and those currently in Ukraine. Everyone is affected in different ways by this appalling act of violence and the unjustified suffering being inflicted, and our thoughts are with our students, staff , and alumni in and from Ukraine and those of you that have friends and loved ones there.
Our concern is also with our Russian and Belarusian students, staff , and alumni who are living with the consequences of an invasion that they are not responsible for. Our priority has been and continues to be for the wellbeing and safety of our students and staff and the effect this unprovoked attack may have on them, now and in the future.
Support available for students
Mental health, wellbeing, and pastoral support
The invasion is having an impact on my mental health and wellbeing - what support can King's provide?
We recognise you may be concerned about what’s happening in Ukraine and that the situation may cause feelings of anxiety, worry or helplessness. Lots of support is available to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing; take a look at our ‘Managing your mental health and wellbeing’ article for more information.
If you feel you may benefit from further mental health and wellbeing support, there are a number of teams at King’s available:
Important to know: We are currently prioritising our Ukrainian, Russian and Belarusian students for mental health and wellbeing support from these services.
I'm worried about another student - how can I help them access support?
King’s students and staff can submit a form via our internal Enhanced Support Pathway process. The form will then be picked up by designated staff in Student Services who will be able to advise on the best course of action while maintaining the relevant levels of confidentiality. Find out more in our ‘I’m concerned about a student/peer’ article.
What pastoral support is available?
The King’s Chaplaincy can offer pastoral support to students of all faiths or none. Find out more in our ‘How can the Chaplaincy support me?’ article.
The King’s community can also be a real source of comfort and strength to each other in times of fear and loss in all parts of the world and it is crucial to support everyone of all backgrounds, nationalities, and faiths. Now is the time for us to come together.
I'm concerned about bullying, harassment, or discrimination towards me - what support is available?
King's College London is committed to providing and promoting a positive environment for all our students, staff, and members of the King's community that is free from all forms of prejudice, discrimination, harassment, and bullying.
Immigration, visa, and travel
I'm a Ukrainian, Russian or Belarusian student studying on a visa - can I receive a visa extension to stay longer in the UK?
The Home Office has confirmed that Ukrainians who are on work, study, or visit visas in the UK will have their visas temporarily extended or be able to switch onto different visa routes. All students who need support relating to their Student Visa or immigration status to study at King’s: please contact the university’s Visa & International Student Advice team on advice@kcl.ac.uk.
What other immigration and visa advice is available?
If you or your friends need further immigration support, the following resources below may be of help:
Financial issues and funding support
Can I apply for help with my tuition fees or for Student Finance funding?
It may be possible to become a ‘Home’ fee payer and apply for Student Finance funding to support your undergraduate or postgraduate degree studies, depending on the type of immigration permission you hold.
Fee status
Ukrainian students need to meet the eligibility requirements which are explained in Category 9- Special status - on the UKCISA website under “Ukraine Schemes”.
Student Finance Funding
Students can learn more about their eligibility for Student Finance here: Support for students from Ukraine in UK higher education.
If you are a continuing student who is currently paying the ‘Overseas’ fee rate and you believe meet the eligibility requirements, then you may be able to request switch to ‘Home’ for fees and receive Student Finance funding.
If you require assistance with your application for Student Finance funding or help navigating the fee status rules, contact the Money & Housing Advice service who can advise and support you.
Questions related to your programme
I am unable to complete my assessment(s) due to the ongoing situation - what should I do?
If you are experiencing difficulties completing your assessments during this time, you can submit a request for mitigating circumstances; read our article 'What are mitigating circumstances?' for further guidance and support during this time.
How is King's responding to the crisis?
How can I help those affected?
Many of you have expressed your concern and asked what you can do to help and support communities impacted by the invasion of Ukraine. In this list of ways to support communities impacted by the invasion of Ukraine you can find information about organisations that are seeking financial donations, volunteers, and essential items.
How are King's experts providing commentary on the invasion?
Many of our world renowned academics from our School of Security Studies and King’s Russia Institute have been sharing their expert analysis on a wide range of topics related to the invasion of Ukraine.
