The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has officially opened applications for the 2026/27 Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative (DAFI) Scholarship Programme, offering refugee students across Africa an opportunity to pursue fully funded undergraduate education.

The UNHCR DAFI Scholarship 2026 is designed to remove financial barriers to higher education by covering essential academic and living expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, food, and study materials. Beyond financial support, the programme equips scholars with leadership skills, professional development opportunities, and community engagement experience.

With applications closing on August 7, 2026, eligible refugee students are encouraged to complete the application process before the deadline.

What Is the UNHCR DAFI Scholarship Programme?

The DAFI (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative) Scholarship Programme is one of UNHCR’s flagship education initiatives aimed at expanding access to higher education for refugees.

The programme enables qualified refugee and returnee students to earn undergraduate degrees in their country of asylum or, where applicable, their home country. Since its launch, DAFI has helped thousands of displaced young people obtain university education while preparing them to become future leaders and contributors to their communities.

Apart from earning academic qualifications, beneficiaries participate in leadership training, career development, and community service initiatives that strengthen their professional and personal growth.

What Does the UNHCR DAFI Scholarship 2026 Cover?

The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support throughout the duration of an eligible undergraduate programme.

Depending on the country of study, successful applicants receive support covering:

• Full tuition fees
• Accommodation expenses
• Food and daily living allowance
• Transportation costs
• Study materials and academic supplies
• Other education-related expenses

In some participating countries, the scholarship also supports accredited Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes lasting two years or more, provided they lead to recognized diplomas or professional qualifications.

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Who Is Eligible for the UNHCR Refugee Scholarship 2026?

For the 2026 Rwanda application cycle, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements.

Candidates must:

• Be recognized refugees or asylum seekers living in Rwanda.
• Have demonstrated strong academic performance during secondary education.
• Obtain admission into an accredited university in Rwanda before scholarship selection.
• Submit proof of university admission.
• Not currently receive another higher education scholarship.
• Not be scheduled for resettlement to a third country.

To promote equal access, only one member from each refugee family can receive the DAFI Scholarship.

UNHCR also encourages applications from female students and persons with disabilities, recognizing the importance of expanding educational opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Required Documents for the DAFI Scholarship

Applicants should prepare the following documents before beginning the online application:

• UNHCR proof of registration
• Certified copy of secondary school certificate
• University admission letter or proof of acceptance
• Equivalence certificate issued by the Ministry of Education (where required)

Submitting complete and accurate documentation is essential for successful consideration.

How to Apply for the UNHCR DAFI Scholarship 2026

Eligible candidates can apply online through the official DAFI application portal.

The application process includes:

• Visiting the official UNHCR DAFI scholarship webpage.
• Accessing the Rwanda 2026 DAFI online application form.
• Completing the application carefully.
• Uploading all required supporting documents before submission.

Applicants are advised to submit their applications well before the August 7, 2026 deadline to avoid technical issues or incomplete submissions.

FAQ

What is the UNHCR DAFI Scholarship Programme?

The UNHCR DAFI (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative) Scholarship Programme is a fully funded education initiative that enables eligible refugee and returnee students to pursue undergraduate degrees or approved tertiary education programmes.

Is the UNHCR DAFI Scholarship fully funded?

Yes. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, food, transportation, study materials, and other approved education-related expenses throughout the programme.

Who can apply for the DAFI Scholarship 2026?

For the Rwanda 2026 call, applicants must be recognized refugees or asylum seekers living in Rwanda, have excellent academic records, secure admission into an accredited university, and meet all programme requirements.

Can asylum seekers apply for the DAFI Scholarship?

Yes. Recognized asylum seekers who meet the eligibility requirements in participating countries may apply.

Does the DAFI Scholarship require IELTS?

No. The scholarship announcement states that IELTS is not required. However, applicants must satisfy the admission requirements of their chosen university.

Which countries benefit from the DAFI Scholarship?

The DAFI Programme operates in many refugee-hosting countries worldwide. The current application announcement specifically relates to eligible refugee students living in Rwanda.

What expenses does the UNHCR Scholarship cover?

The scholarship may include:

• Tuition fees
• Accommodation
• Food
• Transportation
• Study materials
• Living expenses
• Selected educational costs

Coverage varies slightly depending on the country.

Can TVET students apply?

Yes. The DAFI Programme can support accredited Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes lasting at least two years and leading to recognized qualifications.

Can someone receiving another scholarship apply?

No. Applicants already benefiting from another higher education scholarship programme are generally not eligible.

Can more than one member of a refugee family receive the scholarship?

No. To ensure broader access, only one family member is usually awarded the DAFI Scholarship.

What documents are required for the DAFI Scholarship?

Applicants typically need:

• UNHCR registration proof
• High school certificate
• University admission letter
• Ministry of Education equivalence certificate (where applicable)

What is the application deadline for the UNHCR DAFI Scholarship 2026?

Applications close on August 7, 2026.

How do I apply for the DAFI Scholarship?

Eligible applicants should complete the official online DAFI application form through UNHCR, upload all required documents, and submit the application before the deadline.

Why is the DAFI Scholarship important?

The programme expands access to higher education for refugees, helping them gain university qualifications, leadership skills, career opportunities, and the ability to contribute positively to their communities.

Is the DAFI Scholarship only for undergraduate students?

The programme primarily supports undergraduate degrees but may also fund eligible short-cycle tertiary and accredited TVET programmes in participating countries.

What makes the UNHCR DAFI Scholarship unique?

Unlike many scholarships that only cover tuition, the DAFI Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support while also investing in leadership development, community engagement, employability skills, and long-term self-reliance for refugee students.