DAFI Scholarship 2026-2027 in Rwanda for International Students (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the DAFI Scholarship 2026-2027 in Rwanda for eligible refugee and asylum-seeker students. Supported by UNHCR's Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative (DAFI), this scholarship provides financial assistance for qualified students to pursue bachelor's degrees or eligible TVET programmes at recognized higher education institutions in Rwanda.

The DAFI Scholarship aims to improve access to higher education for refugees by covering essential educational expenses and helping students build skills for future employment and community development. Please note that this scholarship is only available for recognized refugees and asylum seekers currently living in Rwanda and does not support master's or PhD studies.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Rwanda
• Funded By: UNHCR – Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative (DAFI)
• Study Level: Bachelor's Degree & Eligible TVET Programmes
• Eligible Applicants: Recognized Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Rwanda
• Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded
• University Admission Required: Yes
• Application Fee: Free
• IELTS Required: No (unless required by the selected university)
• Application Period: 15 July – 7 August 2026
• Deadline: 7 August 2026

Selected scholars may receive:

• Full tuition fee support
• Accommodation assistance
• Food or living allowance
• Books and study materials
• Local transportation support
• Other education-related expenses
• Academic mentoring and guidance
• Career development opportunities
• Networking and leadership support

The exact financial package may vary depending on the student's circumstances and programme requirements.

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

Applicants must:

• Be a recognized refugee or asylum seeker living in Rwanda.
• Be registered with UNHCR in Rwanda.
• Have a strong academic record.
• Secure admission to a recognized university or eligible institution in Rwanda.
• Not already receive another higher education scholarship.
• Not have another family member currently benefiting from the DAFI Scholarship.
• Not be approved for third-country resettlement before scholarship selection.

Women and applicants with special educational needs are strongly encouraged to apply.

Eligible Study Programmes

The scholarship supports:

• Bachelor's degree programmes.
• Accredited TVET programmes lasting at least two years.
• Short-cycle tertiary programmes leading to recognized qualifications.

Not Eligible:

• Master's degrees
• PhD programmes
• Short training courses

Required Documents

Applicants typically need:

• UNHCR registration document.
• Certified secondary school certificate.
• University admission letter or proof of acceptance.
• Qualification equivalence certificate (if previous education was completed outside Rwanda).
• Other documents requested during the online application.

IELTS Requirement

The DAFI Scholarship itself does not require IELTS.

However, applicants must satisfy the English language requirements of the university where they have secured admission. If the university requires IELTS or another English language qualification, applicants must provide it during the admission process.

Follow these steps:

1. Apply for admission to an eligible university or TVET institution in Rwanda.
2. Receive an official admission letter.
3. Prepare all required supporting documents.
4. Complete the official DAFI Scholarship application.
5. Upload the required documents before the deadline.
6. Submit your application online.

Why Apply for the DAFI Scholarship?

The DAFI Scholarship provides refugees with an opportunity to access quality higher education without worrying about major educational expenses. Beyond financial support, scholars benefit from mentoring, academic guidance, leadership development, and career preparation, helping them become future leaders within their communities.

Application Deadline

The last date to apply for the DAFI Scholarship 2026-2027 in Rwanda is 7 August 2026. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid technical issues and ensure all required documents are uploaded successfully.