15%
our goal of enabled refugees to access higher education by 2030.
56
countries currently hosting DAFI students
24,000+
young refugees supported to undertake tertiary studies since 1992
18,818
applications to the DAFI programme in one year
Investing in the future

Our vision is a future where all refugees are included in the communities that host them, and where refugees can find meaningful employment. We look forward to a future where refugees are not only self-reliant but vital contributors to local economies.

Expanding access to higher education is fundamental to achieving this vision.

Yet, right now, refugees are still battling against the odds. Just 7% of refugees are currently enrolled in higher education, compared to a global average of 42%.

UNHCR is calling on companies, foundations and individuals to help us reach our 15by30 goal of enabling 15% of refugees to access higher education by 2030.

Will you help us send 70 talented refugees to complete their scholarship?

Join our Aiming Higher campaign and invest in the best chance we have for the future – supporting smart, dedicated young minds.

Higher education for refugees not only helps individual scholars, but their whole communities. It paves the way for employment and helps refugees realise their potential to actively contribute to their local economies, whether they have been resettled, are living in a host community, or have returned home.

In many countries, a DAFI scholarship is the only means by which young refugee students can hope to attend university. Please give what you can today, so we can award the scholarships that can change their lives.
Monicah, a South Sudanese refugee, graduated in law in Kenya.
"As a young refugee, I encountered many obstacles during my schooling and studies, but thanks to my determination, resilience and a lot of hard work, I overcame the difficulties that have marked my life."
Francis Elena, Venezuelan-Colombian psychology student in Cartagena, Colombia.
"Later on, I'd like to become a great psychologist. So I'll do my utmost to help my community, especially the children, by providing them with professional assistance and advice. I'd be happy to give them anything I can."
Ahmed is a Syrian refugee and former DAFI scholarship holder. He is now an IT facilitator at the Norwegian Refugee Council's youth center in the Azraq camp in Jordan.
"I was most attracted by the DAFI program. As well as easing the financial burden, it has enabled me to gain extensive experience as part of my studies."
Mandela lost his entire family during the Kivu conflict in the DRC. In 2017, he saw an advert for the DAFI program in a camp in Zambia and sent in his application to study computer science at Cavendish University. He still vividly remembers the moment.
"I got down on my knees and started praying. It was true. From the moment I knew I had this opportunity, I said to myself, "Whatever it takes, I'll do whatever it takes to succeed."
Ways to support Aiming Higher

It costs an average of 2'840 francs to cover the cost of a year’s scholarship place and 11'360 francs for the whole length of a degree.

By joining our Aiming Higher campaign, you’re not just helping individual students, but their families, their communities, and beyond. The potential impact of your support is limitless.

Get involved as a company or a foundation

Do you want to partner with us? Do you want to get your employees involved and raise funds for us?
Your company or foundation can ensure that refugee scholars can become the leaders of tomorrow.
Please contact us (partnerships@unrefugees.ch) for more information

Make a personal donation

Provide a young refugee scholar with the opportunity to attend higher education, or contribute towards the cost of books, transport and living costs.

Donate now
DAFI Scholarships for young refugees – your questions answered
Q: What does a DAFI scholarship pay for?

A: Each scholarship award includes payment of tuition and fees, as well as covering costs such as study materials, food, local transportation and accommodation. The allowance is designed to ensure DAFI students should not be forced to choose between going to class or working, required to travel a long distance to university, or expected to focus on their studies while they are hungry.

Q: How long has the programme been running?

A: DAFI (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative) has been helping refugee students access tertiary and higher education since 1992. The increased numbers of refugees worldwide has seen a steep rise in scholarship applications, and UNHCR is now asking supporters across the world to help help meet this growing need. Over 22,500 young refugees have been supported to access tertiary and higher education since 1992.

Q: What are the eligibility criteria for students?

A: DAFI scholarships are awarded according to a combination of need and merit-based factors. 
The programme is academically competitive to ensure most recipients can succeed in their studies and graduate. Individual country programmes, however, may determine some selection criteria in order to respond to specific need-based criteria.

Q: How do refugee students apply for a DAFI scholarship?

A: In preparation for the start of the academic year, UNHCR and partner organisations issue a call for applications. In most countries, applicants are required to show that they have successfully completed secondary school and are able to undertake higher education in the language of instruction. Other selection criteria may include a demonstrated commitment to giving back to their community, or academic reference letters.

Q: Are only university scholarships funded or other kinds of higher education as well?

A: As well as degree courses, the programme provides opportunities for young people to pursue tertiary level education in accredited higher education institutions, including through technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programmes

Q: What leadership roles do DAFI students and alumni take on?

A: DAFI scholars and alumni are volunteers, activists, artists, community organisers, entrepreneurs and campus leaders. In 2021, nearly half of DAFI scholars served as volunteers in their communities. Many have started initiatives to share information about higher education in their communities, or led and created advocacy groups to call for more inclusive access. In addition, DAFI students have developed networks, started businesses and promoted inclusion, to the benefit of both refugees and host communities.

Q: Why is UNHCR asking supporters to help fund scholarships now?

A: Only 6% of young refugees are in tertiary or higher education worldwide, compared to 40% of young people in the population as a whole. To address this injustice, and ensure a new generation of potential leaders can access the education they deserve, UNHCR is asking our most committed supporters in the UK and around the world to help fund DAFI scholarships. With the help of generous supporters, we aim to ensure that 15% of refugee students are in higher education 
by 2030