Opportunities for University Scholarships for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons
The UNHCR, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is inviting applications for higher education scholarships aimed at refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). This initiative seeks to support the most vulnerable youth, helping them achieve their academic dreams and overcome the challenges that stand in their way toward higher education.
Target Groups:
- Youth with disabilities and special needs.
- Refugee students from low-income families, especially those without stable income.
- Students who graduated more than three years ago and wish to resume their studies.
- Students with health or psychological conditions who had to leave education due to their circumstances.
Are You Eligible to Apply?
- Are you a registered refugee or an internally displaced person (IDP) with the UNHCR?
- Have you studied at a university or college and achieved a GPA of at least 3 out of 4, or the equivalent?
- Do you require financial assistance to continue your university education?
Selection Criteria:
- Recognized refugees by the UNHCR or IDPs (a valid proof of status is required).
- Students with a high school diploma with a grade of at least 70% (a copy of the certificate is required).
- Current university students or those who completed their studies but haven’t graduated yet (proof of enrollment or attendance required).
- Applicants must be under 26 years old at the time of application.
- Expected graduation date should be in or before December 2027.
About UNHCR
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), based in Geneva, Switzerland, is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights, and building a better future for millions of displaced and stateless people. Since its establishment in 1950, UNHCR has become one of the most significant humanitarian agencies, addressing crises worldwide. The organization operates in over 130 countries, with key offices in Geneva, New York, Brussels, Amman, Nairobi, Kampala, and Addis Ababa. UNHCR provides emergency shelter, food, water, and protection to displaced populations, while also working on long-term solutions such as resettlement, education, and economic integration for refugees.
By collaborating with governments, NGOs, and private sector partners, UNHCR ensures refugees and stateless people have access to essential services, including healthcare, education, and legal aid. The organization also promotes financial inclusion and empowerment programs, which help displaced communities rebuild their lives and contribute to the local economy.
About Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation, headquartered in Toronto, Canada, is one of the world’s largest private foundations, with an endowment of over $30 billion. The foundation is committed to financial inclusion and youth education, especially in Africa. Through its key programs, such as the Young Africa Works initiative and partnerships with educational institutions, the foundation provides scholarships, entrepreneurial training, and job creation opportunities.
Mastercard Foundation has regional offices in Nairobi, Kigali, Accra, and Dakar, and works with governments, NGOs, and private enterprises to implement scalable solutions that drive economic development, especially for marginalized and vulnerable populations, including refugees. The foundation is a major supporter of digital transformation, encouraging access to online education and e-learning platforms, which enhance youth employability in Africa’s growing digital economy.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants can apply via the provided link Application Link or scan the QR code in the image. The deadline for submitting applications is January 13, 2025, and all required documents must be attached.
Note:
Please be aware that the selection process is based on the criteria mentioned above and does not guarantee the scholarship for all applicant
