Learn about the UNHCR DAFI Fellowship / Scholarship Program 2027 - the Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative that funds tertiary education for refugees. Country calls (including pathways highlighted for Rwanda and other DAFI operations) open on local UNHCR schedules.

DAFI is not a single worldwide online form. Selection runs through UNHCR country offices and partners. This Opportunity Station listing helps you prepare documents, understand benefits, and find the official UNHCR DAFI page plus our Rwanda-focused guide.

Programme Snapshot

Item	Details
Donor framework	UNHCR DAFI Tertiary Scholarship Programme
Category	Fellowship / scholarship for refugee higher education
Example focus	Rwanda and other DAFI countries
Funding	Fully funded academic package (country-specific)
Applications	Through UNHCR / partners when the local call opens

Programme Overview

DAFI supports diploma, undergraduate, and sometimes postgraduate pathways so refugees can rebuild careers and contribute to host and home communities. Awards usually cover tuition and living support defined in each country’s annual call.

Benefits

Tuition and mandatory fees
Subsistence / living support where included
Books and study support
Mentorship and student welfare services
Recognition as part of a global DAFI alumni network

Eligibility Criteria

Refugee / eligible UNHCR status per country rules
Academic readiness for the target degree
Age and residency conditions in the local call
Motivation to serve community after graduation

Required Documents

Status documentation
School / university records
Application forms from the implementing partner
Motivation letter
Any medical or police documents requested locally

Application Process

Follow UNHCR Rwanda (or your country) education announcements.
Confirm you meet the year’s DAFI criteria.
Apply to the partner university if required.
Submit the DAFI dossier to UNHCR / the partner before the local deadline.
Attend interviews or verification if invited.

Selection Criteria

Committees weigh academic potential, vulnerability/need, gender balance goals, and field of study priorities set for that year.

Important Dates

Country calls often open once or twice a year - monitor UNHCR channels
Prepare documents before the announcement to move quickly

Tips for Applicants

Never pay agents claiming “guaranteed DAFI slots”.
Use only UNHCR or named partner contacts.
Keep certified copies of all school records ready.

FAQs

Is DAFI a fellowship or a scholarship?

DAFI is UNHCR’s tertiary scholarship programme; on Opportunity Station we list it under Fellowships for discoverability while linking the official scholarship framework.

Can I apply from any country?

Only where UNHCR runs a DAFI call and you meet that country’s eligibility.

Official Application

UNHCR DAFI Programme - Official Overview

DAFI Rwanda Guide on Opportunity Station

Related Opportunities

Explore more funded programmes on Opportunity Station:

Results for “Refugee Higher Education”

UNHCR DAFI Fellowship Program 2027 (Fully Funded Refugee Higher Education)