The UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme (DAFI) 2026/27 is a fully funded undergraduate scholarship that enables qualified refugees and returnees to pursue higher education in their country of asylum or home country.
The program supports academically talented refugee students by covering educational and living costs while encouraging leadership, community engagement, and skills development.
UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Summary
- Host Organization: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
- Scholarship Program: Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative (DAFI)
- Study Level: Undergraduate
- Eligible Countries: African Countries (subject to country-specific eligibility)
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 7 August 2026
About the UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme
The DAFI Scholarship Programme provides refugee and returnee students with the opportunity to obtain an undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification in their country of asylum or home country.
Beyond financial support, the program promotes leadership development, community participation, and professional skills that empower scholars to contribute positively to their communities after graduation.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Study materials and academic supplies.
- Living allowance.
- Food allowance.
- Transportation support.
- Accommodation support.
- Access to academic and professional development opportunities.
- Funding for eligible Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes lasting two years or more.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a recognized refugee or asylum seeker (country-specific eligibility applies).
- Have excellent academic performance.
- Have secured admission to an accredited university in the host country.
- Submit proof of university admission.
- Not currently be receiving another higher education scholarship.
- Not have been approved for resettlement to a third country.
- Meet all additional eligibility requirements established by the local UNHCR office.
Preference may be given to:
- Female applicants.
- Applicants with disabilities or special educational needs.
Scholarship Conditions
Scholarship recipients are expected to:
- Maintain satisfactory academic performance throughout their studies.
- Participate in leadership, skills development, and community engagement activities supported by the DAFI Programme.
- Continue meeting the scholarship’s eligibility requirements for the duration of the award.
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
How to Apply
To apply for the UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme (DAFI):
- Visit the official UNHCR or country-specific DAFI application portal.
- Complete the online scholarship application form.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Verify that all information provided is accurate and complete.
- Submit your application before the application deadline.
Applicants should carefully review the country-specific eligibility requirements and application instructions before submitting their application.
📋 Required Documents
- UNHCR proof of registration
- Certified copy of high school certificate or diploma
- Official university admission letter or proof of acceptance
- Equivalence certificate from the Ministry of Education (where applicable)
- Any additional documents requested by the local UNHCR office