Many charities in the UK are very upset about a new rule that stops students from Gaza bringing their family members with them when they come to study. These students have won places at British universities, but under current immigration rules, they are not allowed to bring their loved ones—spouse, children, or other dependents. The charities say this policy is unfair, cruel, and causes great hardship.
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Who is affected

About 34 Palestinian students—including some on prestigious scholarship programs like Chevening—have been approved to study in Britain.
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Many of them have young children or spouses who must remain in Gaza. One example is a student who was told only days before evacuation that she could not bring her three young children.
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Because of this rule, families are separated at a time when many are fleeing violence and trauma.
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What charities are saying

Charities and university groups say that the ban is “excessively harsh.” They argue that when students are allowed to bring dependents, they adapt better; their mental health is likely to be stronger; and they are more able to focus on their studies.
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The Refugee Council, universities, and others say that forcing students to choose between their education and their family is cruel.
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They are urging the UK government to change the rules quickly. They want the Home Office and Foreign Office to allow dependents in such cases, so families can stay together.
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Government response and signals of change

The UK government has defended the rules as part of a broader immigration policy. But some government officials are now hinting that the policy might be reversed or altered. David Lammy, Deputy Prime Minister, has said there could be a “U-turn” to allow scholars from Gaza to bring children to the UK.
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University bodies, including Oxford, have raised concerns about how this separation hurts both students and their families. They warn that the ban might discourage talented people from accepting offers.
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Why this matters

Leaving family behind in a conflict zone like Gaza is traumatic. Students coming to study often carry stress and grief; being alone without family support makes those pressures worse. Charities say family reunification is not a luxury: it is a humane and essential step for mental health, safety, and dignity.
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Also, separation can hurt education outcomes. When a student worries about children or spouse suffering far away, it may be harder to settle, study, and concentrate. The charities argue that supporting family reunification helps students succeed, which benefits universities and society as well.
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The way forward

The charities want the UK government to act fast. They ask for:

A change in immigration rules so that students accepted by UK universities can bring dependents.

Exceptions or waivers for dependents in conflict zones where biometric or visa centres are closed.

Clear timelines for processing these requests so that families don’t face indefinite separation.

It is a moral issue for many people, beyond politics. The question is whether educational opportunity should require such painful sacrifice.

In short, the UK’s ban on Gaza students bringing their families has been sharply criticised by charities and universities. Many feel it is deeply unfair and harmful—especially given the crisis in Gaza. As concern grows, there are signs the government might shift its policy. Whether change comes quickly enough to help those already separated remains to be seen.