CHANGES are to be made to the law to make clear that Syrian refugees can benefit from student support without having to wait three years.
Education Secretary Angela Constance said the move would ensure those fleeing Syria have "every opportunity to thrive in a new environment".
Amendments will be made to existing legislation to clarify that refugees will be eligible for the relevant loans, allowances, fee support and help with the cost of living from the date they entered the UK.
Regulations are also being changed so Syrian refugees can apply for an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA).
The move has been welcomed by Vonnie Sandlan, president of the National Union of Students (NUS) Scotland.
She said: "This is a hugely positive move in Scotland's response to the ongoing refugee crisis we're seeing across the world.
"We know that education can have a hugely transformative effect on people's lives and opportunities, and by extending student support to Syrian refugees we're ensuring an invaluable place in education for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.
"Scotland has played a leading and vocal role in ensuring the UK does more to step up and lead on supporting those fleeing persecution. This is a very welcome example of that in practice, ensuring Scotland does what we can."
Ms Constance said: "These people have fled terror and tyranny and are some of the most vulnerable among those affected by the conflict. As they start their new lives here, we want them to be safe but also give them every opportunity to thrive in a new environment.
"The legal changes I am announcing today ends any ambiguity around their status when it comes to applying for student support.
"Syrian refugees deserve all the help we can give them and removing potential barriers to study is very much in line with our commitment to widen access, helping a vulnerable group make the most of their time in this country."
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