The UNHCR’s Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme (DAFI) 2026/2027 for refugee students is now open for applications, with a deadline of August 07, 2026. This scholarship program provides an excellent opportunity for refugee students to pursue their tertiary education and gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers. By applying for this scholarship, refugee students can take a significant step towards achieving their academic and professional goals, and creating a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
About the Opportunity
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization dedicated to protecting and assisting refugees and asylum seekers around the world. The DAFI scholarship program is one of the organization’s key initiatives, aimed at providing tertiary education opportunities to refugee students who would otherwise be unable to access them. By supporting the education and skills development of refugee students, the UNHCR is helping to promote social and economic development in refugee-hosting countries, and to empower refugees to become self-sufficient and contribute to their communities.
The DAFI scholarship program is particularly important for African refugees, many of whom face significant barriers to accessing education and employment opportunities. By providing access to tertiary education, the program is helping to address the skills gap and promote economic development in refugee-hosting countries. The program is also helping to promote social cohesion and stability, by supporting the integration of refugees into their host communities and promoting mutual understanding and respect.
The DAFI scholarship program is a vital component of the UNHCR’s efforts to protect and assist refugees, and to promote durable solutions to refugee crises. By supporting the education and skills development of refugee students, the program is helping to empower refugees to become self-sufficient and to contribute to their communities, and to promote social and economic development in refugee-hosting countries. The program is also helping to promote the UNHCR’s core values of protection, inclusion, and empowerment, and to uphold the rights and dignity of refugees and asylum seekers.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for the DAFI scholarship program, applicants must meet certain criteria, including being a recognized refugee or asylum seeker living in Rwanda, having been accepted to a university in Rwanda, and demonstrating excellent academic performance.
- Be a recognized refugee or asylum seeker living in Rwanda, with a valid refugee or asylum seeker registration document.
- Have been accepted to a university in Rwanda, with a letter of admission or a confirmation of enrollment.
- Demonstrate excellent academic performance, with a strong academic record and a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or equivalent.
- Meet the language requirements of the university, with proficiency in the language of instruction.
- Be able to demonstrate a commitment to community engagement and skills development, with a willingness to participate in extracurricular activities and to contribute to the development of their community.
What You Will Gain
The DAFI scholarship program provides a range of benefits to successful applicants, including financial support, academic guidance, and skills development opportunities.
- Financial support, including a tuition fee waiver, a monthly stipend, and a book allowance, to cover the costs of tuition, living expenses, and study materials.
- Academic guidance, including mentorship, academic advising, and career counseling, to support students in achieving their academic and professional goals.
- Skills development opportunities, including training in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers.
- Access to a network of scholars and professionals, including alumni and staff of the UNHCR, to provide support, guidance, and networking opportunities.
- Opportunities for community engagement and service, including volunteer work, internships, and research projects, to promote social responsibility and community development.
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity to apply for the DAFI scholarship program, with a deadline of August 07, 2026. Start your application early, and ensure that you submit all required documents and information on time.
How to Apply for UNHCR’s Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme (DAFI) 2026/2027 for refugee students.
To apply for the DAFI scholarship program, follow these steps: review the eligibility criteria and ensure that you meet all the requirements, gather all required documents, including your refugee or asylum seeker registration document, your letter of admission or confirmation of enrollment, and your academic transcripts, and submit your application online through the UNHCR website.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The DAFI scholarship program is a unique opportunity for refugee students to pursue their tertiary education and gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers. By applying for this scholarship, refugee students can take a significant step towards achieving their academic and professional goals, and creating a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Do not miss this opportunity, and apply now for the DAFI scholarship program, to start building a better future for yourself and your community.

