By Lenny Osler, News Editor
A Palestinian student set to enrol at the University of Bristol has found her evacuation from Gaza delayed, as dangerous and unstable conditions prevent her from taking a mandatory English language test required to secure student visa sponsorship.
Isra’a Abunssir, due to begin a Master’s in Education at the University of Bristol this week, has told Epigram the University has required her to take the Duolingo English Test in order to sponsor her student visa.
Due to unstable internet connection and a lack of external test centres in Gaza, she remains unable to take the examination.
Isra’a said the University allowed her to take Duolingo’s online test - rather than an in-person examination at a test centre - given her exceptional circumstances.
The University told Isra’a the test results are required as evidence of her English language proficiency.
Isra’a lives on the ‘yellow line’, which separates the Palestinian-controlled part of Gaza from the areas occupied by Israel since October 2025.
She said it is a ‘high-risk border area’ with ‘daily artillery attacks and sniper fire.’
‘A remotely proctored one-hour exam requires a continuous internet connection, stable electricity, and a quiet environment, none of which I can guarantee where I live.’
Isra’a said the University ‘acknowledged’ these safety concerns, but has not waived the requirement.
Nyx Osborne Sandford
The University’s English language requirements policy says that under exceptional circumstances, exemptions or alternative evidence of proficiency may be considered.
The hopeful student said she submitted evidence of her work in English, and gave three professional references. However, the University has still yet to sponsor her visa and guarantee evacuation.
Isra’a said the School of Education, the University department where she hopes to study, has been ‘advocating’ for her case.
She also said she had taken leave from her job at CLS Learning Solutions - a US company operating in Gaza - to study for the test.
After failing to secure visa sponsorship and attempting to return to work, Isra’a said her manager had hired a replacement.
Isra’a told Epigram:
‘I feel completely lost. I have lost my job, and I don't know whether the scholarship opportunity that I fought so hard for will finally become a reality.
‘I have invested so much time, effort, and hope into this journey, and right now I feel uncertain about what will happen next.’
A University of Bristol spokesperson said:
‘We are unable to comment on individual applications or admissions decisions. We recognise that some applicants may be facing exceptionally challenging personal circumstances, and our admissions teams work closely with students wherever possible to provide guidance and support and help them understand and meet the requirements of their course and visa.
‘All applicants who require a student visa must meet the English language requirements set by the UK Home Office. Where these requirements cannot be met, the University is unable to confirm admission.’
Featured image: Isra’a Abunssir
