At-Risk Scholars and Professionals membership scheme
This membership route is currently closed to applications. The next call for applications through the ARSaP route will open in the next application round in 2026. See this page for more information about this route to membership.
What is the ARSaP scheme?
The At-Risk Scholars and Professionals (ARSaP) scheme is a separate application route for membership to the UK Young Academy. It aims to support academics and professionals from marginalised and underrepresented communities to apply for membership at the UK Young Academy. It also provides skills development and amplifies their voices for positive change.
ARSaP is run in collaboration with the Council for At-Risk Academics (Cara). It is currently open to academics in the Cara Fellowship Programme or Alumni network. In the future, we plan to work with new partners to expand support for at-risk individuals across different sectors beyond academia.
This initiative is part of a global programme successfully implemented by other Young Academies around the world. It is also part of a wider member-led project at the UK Young Academy.
What is the definition of ‘at-risk’?
In the context of the ARSaP scheme, an individual is considered ‘at-risk’ if they have been displaced due to forced exile or migration, or entry into the UK under refugee status.
Who is eligible for the ARSaP scheme?
To be eligible for this scheme, academics at-risk must be:
- based in the UK with a valid visa or refugee status.
- part of the Fellowship Programme or Alumni network for Cara (Council for At-Risk Academics).
It is currently open to academics in the Cara Fellowship Programme or Alumni network. In the future, we plan to work with new partners to expand support for at-risk individuals across different sectors beyond academia.
Non-academic at-risk individuals
Non-academic at-risk individuals who work in other fields can apply for membership through the general application route.
Learn more about applying for UK Young Academy membership. Please contact us if you have any questions about the ARSaP scheme.
How is applying via ARSaP different to general membership?
In recognition of the alternative and potentially challenging circumstances of applicants to the ARSaP scheme, we have made two key changes to the application process:
- You do not need to provide a permanent address.
- You do not need to provide references in support of your application.
- Some personal information will be shared with Cara for the purpose of confirming applicant eligibility to the scheme. This will be stored and used in line with our privacy policy.
Applications to the ARSaP scheme are made through the same portal as our general applications. Further guidance on applying for membership through the UK Young Academy ARSaP scheme can be found below in the ARSaP applicant pack, including guidance on using the application portal.