Application Deadline: August 7, 2026
About the Programme
Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme (DAFI). The DAFI programme offers qualified refugee and returnee students the possibility to earn an undergraduate degree in their country of asylum or home country. The scholarship package varies from country to country and covers a range of costs including tuition and study materials, food, transportation, and accommodation. The DAFI programme covers programmes at International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) level 6, bachelor’s degrees or equivalent level qualifications. The scholarship is designed to provide students with academic and/or professional knowledge, skills, and competencies, leading to a first degree or equivalent qualification. DAFI can also cover short-cycle tertiary education, ISCED level 5 courses, including accredited Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes of two years or more that lead to a certification or diploma. The DAFI Scholarship supports refugee students pursuing bachelor’s degree studies and encourages their participation in community engagement and skills development activities.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a recognized refugee or asylum seeker living in Rwanda
- Priority will be given to those who achieved excellent academic performance
- Applicant should have been accepted to a university in Rwanda (you will have to submit proof of admission to a university)
- Only one family member can apply/obtain DAFI scholarship to ensure that benefits allocated are equally given to other refugee students
- Applicants currently benefiting from another Higher Education scholarship programme are not eligible to apply for DAFI scholarship
- Applicants who have been confirmed to depart for resettlement to third countries are not eligible to apply for this scholarship
Secondary Selection Criteria:
- Female and persons with special needs education are highly encouraged to apply
Why This Scholarship Matters
Access to higher education is one of the most powerful tools for refugee empowerment and self-reliance. Yet, refugee youth face significant barriers to tertiary education, including financial constraints, lack of recognition of prior qualifications, and limited access to information. The DAFI programme addresses these barriers by providing comprehensive scholarships for refugee students to pursue bachelor’s degrees and accredited TVET programmes. Since its establishment in 1992, the DAFI programme has supported over 20,000 refugee students to pursue higher education in more than 50 countries. The programme not only provides financial support but also fosters community engagement and leadership development among refugee youth.
For refugee students in Rwanda who have been accepted to a university, this scholarship offers:
- Comprehensive financial support covering tuition, study materials, food, transportation, and accommodation
- Access to higher education leading to a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
- Opportunities for community engagement and skills development
- A pathway to self-reliance and future career opportunities
Application Requirements
All applications should be submitted through the DAFI online application form.
Required Documents to be Attached or Uploaded:
- UNHCR Proof of registration
- Official/certified copy of the high school diploma
- University admission letter or proof of acceptance for study in one of the universities in Rwanda
- Equivalence certificate from the Ministry of Education of the country of asylum
How to Apply
Application Link: Click here
For More Information: Visit the Official UNHCR DAFI Scholarship Page
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