In recent years, conflicts, persecution, and environmental disasters have forced millions of people to flee their homes. As a result, a growing number of refugees and displaced individuals face significant barriers to accessing higher education. Despite their resilience and academic potential, they often lack the financial resources, documentation, or legal status required for university admission. Recognizing this global need, several governments, institutions, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have established scholarships specifically for refugees and displaced students to ensure they are not left behind in the pursuit of education.
This article explores the importance of such scholarships, highlights key programs across the globe, and provides guidance on how eligible students can apply and succeed.
Why Scholarships for Refugees Matter
For displaced students, higher education is more than just an academic opportunity—it’s a lifeline. It offers the chance to rebuild lives, gain professional skills, and contribute meaningfully to host societies or home countries when it becomes safe to return. Scholarships provide not just financial support but also a sense of belonging and stability in otherwise uncertain circumstances.
Refugee scholarships typically cover tuition fees, living expenses, language training, academic support, and even legal assistance. They also recognize the unique challenges these students face, such as gaps in education, lack of documents, and trauma.
Global Scholarship Programs for Refugees and Displaced Students
1. UNHCR – DAFI Scholarship Program
The Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative (DAFI) is run by UNHCR and supported by the German government. It provides full scholarships for refugee students to pursue undergraduate degrees in their host countries.
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Coverage: Tuition, living expenses, study materials, and mentoring.
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Eligibility: Recognized refugees residing in host countries with strong academic performance.
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Locations: Available in over 50 countries.
DAFI is one of the most established programs of its kind, having supported over 18,000 students since 1992.
2. Jusoor Scholarships (for Syrian Students)
Jusoor, a nonprofit founded by Syrian expatriates, offers numerous scholarships to Syrian refugee and displaced students.
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Coverage: Full or partial tuition, depending on the program.
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Partner Universities: Harvard, Oxford, Columbia, and others.
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Eligibility: Syrian nationals affected by the conflict, often with priority given to those in refugee status.
The program also supports mentorship and networking opportunities, ensuring students integrate academically and socially.
3. University of the People (UoPeople) – Refugee Scholarships
University of the People, a tuition-free accredited online university, offers targeted scholarships for refugees and displaced individuals.
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Coverage: Waived application and assessment fees through scholarship funds.
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Mode: 100% online, ideal for those without physical access to institutions.
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Programs: Degrees in Business, Computer Science, Health Science, and Education.
This model allows students in camps or war-torn areas to pursue quality education with minimal logistical constraints.
4. World University Service of Canada (WUSC) – Student Refugee Program
WUSC runs a unique program that combines sponsorship with education.
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Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, and living costs for the duration of the program.
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Eligibility: Refugees living in host countries like Kenya, Jordan, or Lebanon.
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Universities: Partner institutions across Canada.
Participants are also supported through student groups on campus, easing the transition into Canadian life.
5. Institute of International Education (IIE) – IIE PEER and IIE Odyssey
The IIE PEER platform helps displaced students discover scholarships and higher education opportunities worldwide. The IIE Odyssey Scholarship, in particular, supports refugee students with full funding.
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Coverage: Tuition, housing, travel, and a living stipend.
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Eligibility: Refugees and asylum seekers, especially from conflict zones like Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.
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Partners: U.S. colleges and global institutions.
IIE also offers emergency assistance grants and English language support.
Scholarships by Country
United States
Many U.S. universities offer specific scholarships for refugee and asylum-seeking students. Some notable examples include:
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The George Washington University – Refugee Scholarships
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The University of Oregon – ICSP Program
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Princeton University – Refugee Student Support Program
In addition, several private foundations like the Open Society Foundations offer fellowships for displaced students.
United Kingdom
The UK has taken strong steps in supporting refugee education:
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Cambridge Refugee Scholarship Scheme
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University of Edinburgh – Humanitarian Scholarships
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Westminster University – Sanctuary Scholarships
These scholarships often cover full tuition, accommodation, and living stipends, along with support for visa and immigration processes.
Germany
As a leading destination for asylum seekers, Germany provides numerous opportunities:
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DAAD – Leadership for Africa
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Baden-Württemberg Refugee Scholarships
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Hertie School – Refugee Support Scholarships
Many German universities also have waived tuition fees and provide support through preparatory courses and language programs.
Australia and New Zealand
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Australia for UNHCR – Refugee Education Grants
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Western Sydney University – Refugee Scholarship
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University of Auckland – Asylum Seeker Scholarships
These programs are designed to integrate refugee students into mainstream education and support them with mentorship.
How to Apply: Key Tips
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Verify Your Legal Status
Most scholarships require proof of refugee or asylum status from UNHCR or a host government. -
Prepare Documentation
If academic transcripts are missing due to conflict, some institutions allow self-certification or alternative evaluations. -
Write a Strong Personal Statement
Focus on your resilience, educational goals, and how you plan to give back to your community. -
Use Dedicated Platforms
Platforms like IIE PEER, Scholarships for Development, and Refugee Study list active opportunities and deadlines. -
Seek Local Help
NGOs and refugee support organizations often offer assistance in finding and applying for scholarships.