This review introduces the concept of individual authoritarianism as defined by Adorno et al (1950) and examines the research evidence which reveals that this personality trait may be significantly reduced by a university education in a progressive socio-political culture. The paper initially summarises the evidence for the origins of individual authoritarianism, including the effects of upbringing and family influence, and then shows that notwithstanding these contributions in childhood and adolescence it is that of higher educational level which has the greatest long-term moderating influence. However the global evidence given indicates that this last effect is dependent on the cultural and political outlook of the host country. The importance of this finding in terms of international assistance for students from the poorest nations with non-democratic regimes is discussed and the paper summarises the present financial assistance available for such students to study in western nations. Based on the most effective of the present schemes recommendations are made for extending such financial assistance.