- The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has opened applications for the 2026/27 Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme (DAFI) for eligible refugee students in Africa.
The UNHCR DAFI Scholarship is a fully funded undergraduate opportunity that covers tuition fees, study materials, accommodation, food, transportation, and other living expenses for successful applicants pursuing higher education.
Scholarship Summary
- Host: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Eligible Applicants: Recognized Refugees and Asylum Seekers
- Reward: Full Scholarship | Living and Study Expenses | Accommodation | Tuition
- IELTS Requirement: No IELTS Required
- Deadline: August 7, 2026
Scholarship Details
Applications are now open for the 2026/27 UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme (DAFI). The programme is designed to provide refugee and returnee students with access to quality higher education by supporting them to earn an undergraduate degree in their country of asylum or home country where applicable.
Beyond financial assistance, the scholarship also encourages beneficiaries to participate in leadership, community engagement, and skills development activities that prepare them for future careers and contribute to sustainable development. Depending on the country, the scholarship may also support eligible students enrolled in accredited Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes leading to a diploma or certification.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a recognized refugee or asylum seeker residing in Rwanda.
- Have demonstrated strong academic performance, as priority will be given to high-achieving students.
- Have secured admission into a recognized university in Rwanda and provide proof of admission.
- Ensure that only one member of their family applies for or receives the DAFI Scholarship.
- Not be receiving any other higher education scholarship.
- Not have been approved for resettlement to a third country.
Additional Selection Criteria
- Female applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Persons with disabilities and those with special educational needs are also encouraged to apply.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants for the UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship will receive:
- Tuition fee coverage
- Study materials
- Accommodation support
- Food allowance
- Transportation support
- Living expenses
- Access to leadership and skills development opportunities
- Support for eligible TVET programmes where applicable
Required Documents
To apply for this scholarship, applicants must prepare to submit:
- UNHCR proof of registration
- Official or certified copy of high school certificate/diploma
- University admission letter or proof of acceptance from a university in Rwanda
- Equivalence certificate from the Ministry of Education of the country of asylum
How to Apply
To apply for the UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship:
- Visit the scholarship application webpage.
- Complete the online DAFI application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
- Kindly wait for feedback.
To begin the scholarship application process, click HERE
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