Information for Asylum Seekers
This section gives you information about:
- the main options open to you
- how to go about applying for courses
- how you can get help, advice and information
- career advice
If you’re leaving school - what’s next?
So, you’re thinking about leaving school: depending on which year you’re in that may seem too far away to think about just now – or scarily close!
The earlier you start to think about your options the better. This will give you time for planning, finding out about different courses and careers and checking entry requirements.
It’s always a good idea to have a ‘back up’ plan in case your original ideas don’t work out.
Who can help?
Don’t worry if you have no career ideas just yet, speak to your Careers Scotland Adviser who can help you develop your career plans. Don’t wait until the last moment. The earlier you see your Adviser, the more time you’ll have to get advice about applying to college or other opportunities; and check out the qualifications for the career areas you’re interested in.
You can make an appointment to see your Careers Adviser in school or you can call into any of the Careers Scotland centres.
What are the options when you leave school?
In autumn 2007, the Scottish Government made changes to allow young asylum seekers to access full time Further and Higher Education without having to pay tuition fees. However, you do have to meet certain requirements (see the questions below):
- Was your application for asylum made before 1 Dec 2006?
- Were you under the age of 18 when the application was made?
- Have you lived in Scotland for at least 3 years?
- Do you have, or expect to gain the relevant Scottish qualifications at school or college?
- Are you under the age of 25?
If you have answered 'No' to any of these questions, check out the other options open to you.
Vodcast
You can also check out our vodcast - "We are all following our dreams" (Shockwave Flash format).
On your own?
If you are here without a parent or guardian you may have been given Discretionary Leave (DL) to remain until you reach the age of 18. From 1 April 2007, Discretionary Leave is only granted to 17.5 years. Remember to lodge a new claim at least 2 months before you turn 18 or 17.5 years, depending on the leave you have been given, to make sure your leave to remain does not expire when you reach that date.
Generally, you will have more options than young asylum seekers living with their family. If you are over 16 and have permission to work, then as well as college and voluntary work, you can consider:
- Employment: Jobcentre Plus - Tel: 0845 601 6619.
- Get Ready for Work Training – speak to your Careers Adviser for more details.
- Project Scotland: a full time volunteering option with a weekly allowance. For more information tel: 08458 416225.
- The Wise Group: Vocational training leading to employment in a wide range of areas e.g. computing, forestry, fabrication, landscaping, social care, loft insulation/draught-proofing. For more information telephone 0141 303 3131 or the Recruitment Line on 0800 731 5678.
Other people who can help you
For details of other organisations which can help, visit Other people who can help you.
Information for parents
If you are a parent of a young asylum seeker, visit Information for parents of Asylum Seekers.
