Application Deadline: Unspecified
Applications are now open for 2026 DAFI Tertiary Scholarship Programme. UNHCR’s Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme (DAFI) offers qualified refugee and returnee (in selected countries*) 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.
DAFI 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. This includes accredited Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes of two years or more that lead to a certification or diploma.
Eligibility Requirements
- Applicants who have been confirmed to depart for resettlement to third countries are not eligible to apply for this scholarship.
- 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 programmes, are not eligible to apply for DAFI scholarship.
The strategic priorities of the DAFI programme are to:
Promote refugee self-reliance
through increased access to opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship
Empower students to contribute knowledge, skills and leadership
and to facilitate peaceful coexistence with host communities during displacement and upon return
Strengthen the protective impact of education
by encouraging lifelong learning
Provide role models for refugee children and youth
to demonstrate the impact of education on individuals, communities and societies
The scholarship covers a range of costs, including tuition, fees, study materials, food, transportation, accommodation and other expenses.
To amplify academic achievement and skills development, DAFI scholars receive additional support through close monitoring, academic preparatory and language classes based on students’ needs, as well as mentoring and networking opportunities. DAFI student clubs and alumni groups are active in many countries and make valuable contributions in the communities that host them.
Application Procedure:
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TO BE ATTACHED OR UPLOADED
- Please upload the equivalence certificate from the Ministry of Education of the country of asylum (optional)
- Please attach your UNHCR Proof of registration
- Please upload your official/certified copy of the high school diploma.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the DAFI Tertiary Scholarship Programme
