In times of conflict, displacement, or persecution, education is often one of the first casualties — and yet, it remains one of the most powerful tools for rebuilding lives. For refugees and displaced students, scholarships can provide not only access to higher education but also a renewed sense of stability, identity, and hope.
In this guide, we’ll explore key scholarship programs, organizations, and tips for navigating the path to academic opportunity despite adversity.
Why Scholarships for Refugees Matter
Education provides displaced students with:
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A path to stability and independence
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Skills to rebuild communities
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Social and emotional support
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Long-term career opportunities
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Legal protection and integration support in host countries
Many universities and organizations around the world have recognized this need and now offer scholarships specifically for refugees and displaced students.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Top Scholarships for Refugees and Displaced Students (2025)
1. DAFI Scholarship Program (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative)
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For: Refugees residing in host countries (mostly in Africa, Asia, the Middle East)
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Covers: Tuition, living expenses, travel, books, and mentoring support
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Funded by: UNHCR and the German government
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Website: UNHCR DAFI Program
2. UNHCR Tertiary Education Scholarship (UNHCR Connected Learning)
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For: Refugees enrolled in online or blended learning programs
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Partners: Kepler, Southern New Hampshire University, Kiron Open Higher Education
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Focus: Digital and flexible education access for students in refugee camps or host communities
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
3. University of the People (UoPeople) – Refugee Scholarships
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For: Refugees and asylum seekers worldwide
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Degrees: Business Administration, Computer Science, Health Science, Education
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Special Funds: Supports Syrian refugees, Afghan women, and displaced learners from Ukraine
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Website: UoPeople Refugee Support
4. Jusoor Scholarships for Syrian Refugees
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For: Syrian youth affected by conflict
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Partners: Leading universities in the US, UK, Europe, and Lebanon
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Focus: Undergraduate and graduate studies with mentoring and career support
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Website: Jusoor Syria
5. The Refugee and Displaced Scholars Program – Open Society Foundations
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For: Graduate-level displaced scholars from around the world
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Offers: Tuition, stipend, and research funding
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Emphasis: Human rights, law, public policy, and humanities
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Website: Open Society Foundations
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
6. Kiron Open Higher Education
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For: Refugees and displaced people
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Platform: Free online university-level courses
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Partners: Top universities including Harvard, Stanford, and MIT via edX and Coursera
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Flexible: Offers learning tracks even without documentation
7. Erasmus+ Scholarships for Refugees
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For: Refugees residing in Europe
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Programs: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees and exchange programs
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Extra support: Additional funding and academic counseling for refugee students
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Website: Erasmus+
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Additional Universities Offering Refugee Scholarships
Many institutions around the world have developed programs for displaced learners, such as:
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University of Edinburgh – Refugee and Asylum Seeker Scholarships
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University of Oxford – Refugee Academic Futures Scholarships
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Sciences Po (France) – Welcome Refugees Program
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University of British Columbia (Canada) – UBC Refugee Initiative
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Central European University (Austria) – CEU Refugee Scholarship
Application Tips for Refugees and Displaced Students
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Gather What You Can: Even if you’ve lost documents, contact scholarship providers — many accept alternative verification methods.
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Highlight Your Story: Use personal statements to share your journey, resilience, and future goals.
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Seek Help from NGOs: Organizations like UNHCR, IIE, and Jesuit Refugee Service offer application guidance and mentorship.
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Apply Broadly: Don’t rely on one application. Explore local, national, and international opportunities.
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Use Your Network: Online forums, university advisors, and alumni can offer valuable support.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
For refugees and displaced people, education is more than just a degree — it’s a second chance. Scholarships provide not only access to knowledge but a path to self-reliance, peace, and empowerment. Whether you’re in a refugee camp, a host country, or resettled in a new home, you have the right to learn, grow, and lead.
If you’re a refugee or displaced student looking for guidance, I can help you search or even assist in writing your motivation letter or scholarship application — just ask.
