The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has officially opened applications for the DAFI Scholarship Programme for the 2026–2027 academic year. The fully funded scholarship provides refugee and asylum-seeker students in Rwanda with an opportunity to pursue undergraduate studies at accredited higher education institutions across the country.
The DAFI (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative) Scholarship Programme is one of UNHCR’s flagship education initiatives, designed to improve access to quality tertiary education for displaced students. Through financial assistance and academic support, the programme empowers refugees to acquire knowledge, professional skills, and leadership abilities that contribute to their communities and future careers.
Applications are open from 15 July to 7 August 2026, and eligible applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline.
About the DAFI Scholarship Programme
The DAFI Scholarship Programme enables qualified refugee and returnee students to pursue undergraduate education in their country of asylum or home country. In Rwanda, the initiative has already transformed the lives of more than 600 refugee students, helping them access higher education and build sustainable futures.
The scholarship supports studies at the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) Level 6, covering bachelor’s degree programmes or equivalent qualifications. It may also support accredited Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes at ISCED Level 5 that last two years or longer and lead to a recognised diploma or certification.
Beyond financial assistance, DAFI scholars receive continuous academic guidance and mentorship. UNHCR and its education partners monitor students’ academic progress, personal development, and well-being while encouraging participation in leadership, community engagement, and skills development initiatives.
The scholarship does not cover master’s degree programmes.
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship package varies depending on the country of implementation but generally provides comprehensive financial support throughout the duration of the approved programme.
Successful applicants may receive support covering:
• Tuition fees
• Study materials and learning resources
• Food and daily living expenses
• Transportation costs
• Accommodation support
This financial assistance enables students to focus on their education while reducing the financial barriers that often limit access to higher education for displaced learners.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the 2026–2027 DAFI Scholarship Programme in Rwanda, applicants must meet the following primary eligibility requirements:
• Be a recognised refugee or asylum seeker residing in Rwanda
• Demonstrate strong academic performance, with priority given to high-achieving students
• Have received admission to a recognised university in Rwanda and provide proof of admission
• Be the only member of their family applying for or receiving the DAFI Scholarship
• Not be receiving another higher education scholarship
• Not have been approved for resettlement to a third country
UNHCR notes that these criteria are intended to ensure fair and equitable distribution of scholarship opportunities among refugee communities.
Priority Considerations
The programme also places emphasis on promoting inclusive access to higher education.
Priority consideration will be given to:
• Female applicants
• Applicants with special educational needs
This approach supports greater educational equity while encouraging participation from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in higher education.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must complete the online application form and upload all required supporting documents.
The required documents include:
• UNHCR Proof of Registration
• Official or certified copy of the high school diploma
• University admission letter or proof of acceptance from a recognised university in Rwanda
• Equivalence certificate issued by the Ministry of Education of the country of asylum
Incomplete applications or missing documentation may affect eligibility during the selection process.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the official DAFI online application portal during the application period.
Applicants should ensure that all required documents are uploaded before submission, as late applications will not be accepted.
Individuals experiencing internet connectivity issues or difficulties uploading documents can seek assistance from:
• Digital Career Counsellors located in refugee camps
• Nearby Community Centres providing application support
Applicants requiring additional information or technical assistance may also contact the programme support teams via the designated UNHCR email addresses.
Important Application Deadline
The application window is open from 15 July 2026 until 7 August 2026.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their documents early to avoid last-minute delays and ensure their applications are submitted before the closing date.
Supporting Refugees Through Higher Education
The DAFI Scholarship Programme continues to play a critical role in expanding educational opportunities for refugees by enabling talented students to access university education, develop professional skills, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Through partnerships with universities and education stakeholders, the programme helps remove financial barriers to higher education while investing in future leaders capable of supporting sustainable development and long-term community resilience.
Eligible refugee and asylum-seeker students living in Rwanda are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this fully funded opportunity to pursue undergraduate education.
