Deadline: 07-Aug-2026
The DAFI Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme in Rwanda provides undergraduate scholarship opportunities for recognized refugees and asylum seekers to study bachelor’s degrees or equivalent programmes at universities in Rwanda during the 2026/2027 academic year. Supported by UNHCR, the scholarship covers education-related costs including tuition, study materials, accommodation, transportation, and living support while promoting skills development and community engagement.
What Is the DAFI Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme?
The DAFI (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative) Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme provides higher education opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers who wish to pursue undergraduate studies.
The programme is implemented by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and supports refugee students in accessing university education and developing professional skills.
In Rwanda, the scholarship supports eligible refugees and asylum seekers enrolled in bachelor’s degree programmes or equivalent higher education qualifications for the 2026/2027 academic year.
Purpose of the DAFI Scholarship Programme
The DAFI Scholarship Programme aims to:
- Increase access to higher education for refugees
- Support refugee youth in developing professional skills
- Improve employment opportunities
- Promote self-reliance among refugee communities
- Encourage community participation and leadership
The programme recognizes education as an important pathway for refugees to build sustainable futures.
DAFI Scholarship Support Benefits
Successful scholars receive financial and academic support throughout their studies.
The scholarship may cover:
The programme also supports students through:
- Academic monitoring
- Well-being support
- Skills development activities
- Community engagement opportunities
Scholarship Duration
The scholarship supports undergraduate-level education.
Funding is provided according to:
- The duration of the approved degree programme
- Academic progress requirements
- UNHCR scholarship guidelines
Who Is Eligible for the DAFI Scholarship in Rwanda?
Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Eligible candidates must:
- Be recognized refugees or asylum seekers living in Rwanda
- Have admission to a university in Rwanda
- Be applying for bachelor’s degree or equivalent studies
- Meet academic requirements for higher education admission
Priority Groups
The programme especially encourages applications from:
- Female applicants
- Students with special needs
- Refugee youth with strong academic potential
The scholarship promotes equal access to education for groups that may face additional barriers.
Who Is Not Eligible?
Applicants are not eligible if they:
- Are already receiving another higher education scholarship
- Have confirmed resettlement to a third country
- Have another family member from the same household already receiving a DAFI scholarship
Only one family member per household can receive the scholarship.
Why the DAFI Scholarship Matters
Refugee students often face financial and social barriers when accessing higher education.
The DAFI programme helps address these challenges by:
- Providing financial assistance
- Increasing university access
- Supporting career development
- Strengthening refugee communities
- Creating future leaders and professionals
Higher education helps refugees gain skills needed for employment, entrepreneurship, and community development.
Fields of Study Supported
The programme supports eligible undergraduate programmes offered by recognized universities in Rwanda.
Applicants should choose programmes that:
- Match their academic background
- Support career development
- Meet university admission requirements
How to Apply for the DAFI Scholarship Programme
Applicants must prepare and submit required documents as part of the application process.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Applicants should check that they:
- Have recognized refugee or asylum seeker status
- Live in Rwanda
- Have university admission
- Meet academic requirements
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
Proof of Refugee or Asylum Seeker Status
Documents confirming legal refugee or asylum seeker status are required.
Certified High School Diploma
Applicants must provide:
- Certified copy of secondary education certificate
- Academic qualifications
University Admission Letter
Applicants must submit official proof of acceptance from a university in Rwanda.
Equivalence Certificate
Applicants must provide an equivalence certificate issued by the Ministry of Education confirming recognition of previous qualifications.
Step 3: Submit Application
Applicants should submit complete applications according to UNHCR and partner organization instructions.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Step 4: Selection and Monitoring
Selected scholars receive ongoing support.
UNHCR and education partners monitor:
- Academic performance
- Student well-being
- Scholarship progress
- Participation in programme activities
Tips for a Strong Application
Applicants can improve their applications by:
- Preparing documents early
- Ensuring certificates are properly certified
- Clearly explaining educational goals
- Maintaining strong academic performance
- Demonstrating commitment to community engagement
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Applying without university admission
- Providing incorrect refugee status information
- Missing required certification documents
- Applying while receiving another scholarship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the DAFI Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme?
The DAFI Scholarship Programme provides financial support for recognized refugees and asylum seekers to pursue undergraduate education at universities.
Who can apply for the DAFI Scholarship in Rwanda?
Recognized refugees and asylum seekers living in Rwanda who have been accepted into a university programme can apply.
What expenses does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship may cover tuition fees, study materials, accommodation, food, and transportation costs.
Can more than one person from the same family receive the scholarship?
No. Only one family member per household can receive the DAFI scholarship.
Can students receiving another scholarship apply?
No. Applicants already receiving another higher education scholarship are not eligible.
Are female applicants encouraged to apply?
Yes. Female applicants and students with special needs are especially encouraged to apply.
What documents are required for application?
Applicants need proof of refugee or asylum seeker status, a certified high school diploma, university admission letter, and an equivalence certificate from the Ministry of Education.
Conclusion
The DAFI Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme in Rwanda provides an important pathway for refugees and asylum seekers to access higher education and develop professional skills.
Through financial support, academic monitoring, and community engagement opportunities, the programme helps refugee students pursue university education, improve future career opportunities, and contribute positively to their communities.
For more information, visit UNHCR.