UNHCR DAFI Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded Scholarship for Sudanese Refugees Students (University & TVET)
“Are you a refugee in Sudan looking for a way to fund your university education? The DAFI Scholarship 2026 is now open, providing a life-changing opportunity for students to pursue their dreams despite the challenges.”
| Feature | Details |
| Organization | UNHCR & Windle Trust International |
| Target Group | Registered Refugees in Sudan |
| Coverage | Fully Funded (Tuition, Food, Housing, Transport) |
| Number of Seats | 75 University and college students/ 50 TVET |
| Deadline | 30 April 2026 |
Windle Trust International (WTI), in partnership with UNHCR, has opened applications for the 2026 cohort of the DAFI (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative Fund) Scholarship Programme in Sudan.
The programme provides vital access to tertiary education for refugees, supporting study at universities, colleges, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across Sudan.
This year’s call for applications comes at a time of increasing global constraints on access to international education for Sudanese students. In this context, programmes such as DAFI play an increasingly important role in ensuring that refugees and displaced learners are still able to access higher education opportunities and continue their studies.
Fully Funded Scholarship for Sudanese Refugees Students (University & TVET)
“The inclusion of TVET scholarships (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) in the DAFI 2026 program is a great step toward building practical skills in the Sudanese labor market.”
For the 2026/2027 academic year:
- 75 scholarships are available for university and college students
- 50 scholarships are available for TVET programmes
75 SLOTS FOR DAFI SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE ACADEMIC YEAR 2026/2027
To be eligible for the DAFI 2026 program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Status: Must be a registered refugee currently living in Sudan.
- Academic: Must be currently studying in a higher education/TVET institution in Sudan OR hold an official acceptance letter.
- Qualifications: Must hold a Sudanese Secondary School Certificate or an equivalent qualification.
- Age: 28 years old or below.
- Financial Need: Must demonstrate a genuine need for financial support to continue education.
Special Notes:
* Female students are highly encouraged to apply.
* Priority is given to students in their first or second year of study.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be registered refugees residing in Sudan
- Be enrolled in, or hold an admission offer from, a recognised higher education or TVET institution in Sudan
- Hold a Sudanese Secondary School Certificate or equivalent qualification
- Be aged 28 years or below
- Demonstrate financial need
Female candidates are encouraged to apply, and priority will be given to students in their first or second year of study.
What does the DAFI Scholarship cover?
- Full tuition fees and study materials.
- Monthly allowance for food and transportation.
- Secure accommodation support.
What is UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme (DAFI)?
UNHCR Tertiary Refugee Scholarship Programme (DAFI) offers qualified refugee and returnee (in selected countries*) students the possibility to earn an undergraduate degree in their country of asylum or home country.
The scholarship package covers a range of costs including tuition and study materials, food, transportation and accommodation. The DAFI scholarship programme may also provide academic preparatory, language and information and communication technology (ICT) courses, as well as psychosocial support, depending on the needs and capacity of the individual country operation or programme partner.
DAFI covers programmes at International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) level 6, or bachelor’s or equivalent level—typically designed to provide participants with intermediate academic and/or professional knowledge, skills and competencies, leading to a first degree or equivalent qualification. Traditionally offered by universities and equivalent tertiary educational institutions.
DAFI also covers short-cycle tertiary education ISCED level 5 courses—usually designed to provide participants with professional knowledge, skills, and competencies, either academic or technical. This includes accredited Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs of two years or more, specifically structured to equip participants with targeted skills directly aligned with labor market demands. These programs lead to certifications or diplomas that increase employability and career development.
DAFI does NOT cover Masters studies.
FAQ
Can I apply for a Master’s degree?
No, DAFI only covers undergraduate and TVET programs.
When is the deadline?
April 30, 2026
Application process
Applications must be submitted through the DAFI Programme Management Platform: https://unhcr-dafi-tertiary.scholarshipsplatform.com/
Applicants are required to upload supporting documentation, including proof of refugee status, admission or enrolment letters, and academic qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
The deadline for applications is 30 April 2026. Late applications will not be accepted, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
