Are you a refugee seeking to pursue higher education at one of Europe’s most prestigious universities? The UNIV’R Scholarship Program 2026 (University for Refugees) offers a life-changing opportunity for refugees residing in their first country of asylum to pursue a fully funded two-year Master’s degree at Sciences Po Paris, one of the world’s leading universities for social sciences and international affairs. This scholarship, supported by UNHCR, AUF (Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie), and Sciences Po, covers full tuition, living expenses, and provides comprehensive administrative and social support.
About the UNIV’R Scholarship Program
The UNIV’R (Universite pour les Refugies) program is a university corridor initiative designed to provide refugees with access to higher education in France. Now in its 5th cohort, this groundbreaking program recognizes that education is a powerful tool for rebuilding lives and creating lasting positive change for both individuals and their communities.
The program is a collaboration between three prestigious organizations: the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF), and Sciences Po Paris. Together, they provide refugees with not just academic opportunities, but comprehensive support throughout their educational journey in France.
Sciences Po Paris, ranked among the top universities globally for politics and international relations, offers world-class education across eight graduate schools. Founded in 1872, Sciences Po has a long tradition of welcoming international students and preparing future leaders for careers in public service, international affairs, journalism, law, and business.
UNIV’R Scholarship 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | France |
| Host Institution | Sciences Po Paris |
| Program Partners | UNHCR, AUF (Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie) |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded Master’s Degree |
| Duration | 2 years (2026-2028) |
| Coverage | Full tuition + Living allowance + Study grant + Health insurance |
| Target Applicants | Refugees in first country of asylum (outside EU) |
| Eligible Nationalities | All nationalities (refugees only) |
| Age Limit | Maximum 35 years old |
| Language Requirement | B2 level in English and/or French |
| Application Deadline | February 1, 2026 |
| Application Fee | Free |
Benefits of the UNIV’R Scholarship
The UNIV’R Scholarship provides comprehensive support to ensure scholars can fully focus on their education:
Financial Support
- Full tuition coverage for the entire two-year Master’s program
- Living allowance/stipend for the complete duration of studies (monthly food allowance included)
- Study grant to cover educational materials and expenses
- Health insurance coverage during the academic period
- No application fee required
Administrative and Social Support
- Facilitated access to the French university system
- Visa application support and sponsorship (VLS-TS long-stay student visa)
- Administrative guidance throughout the enrollment process
- Social integration support in Paris
- Access to Sciences Po’s student services and resources
Work and Post-Study Options
- Part-time work permitted: Students are allowed to work part-time during their studies in France
- Post-study opportunities: Graduates may be eligible for work permit or temporary residency in France after completing the program
Important Note: This scholarship does not allow family members to accompany the student during the study period.
Available Master’s Programs at Sciences Po Paris
UNIV’R scholars can apply to any of the Master’s programs offered across Sciences Po’s eight graduate schools. Programs are taught in English or French (depending on the program):
Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA)
One of the world’s leading schools for international affairs, PSIA offers:
- Master in International Security
- Master in International Economic Policy
- Master in Human Rights and Humanitarian Action
- Master in International Development
- Master in Environmental Policy
- Master in International Public Management
- Master in International Energy
Other Graduate Schools
- School of Public Affairs: Master in Public Policy, Master in European Affairs, Economics and Public Policy stream
- Law School: Master in Economic Law, various legal specializations
- Urban School: Master in Governing the Large Metropolis, Master in Regional and Urban Strategy
- School of Management and Impact: Business and management programs
- Journalism School: Master in Journalism, Joint Master in Journalism and International Affairs
- School of Research: Research-focused Master’s programs across disciplines
- Paris Climate School: Programs focused on ecological transition and climate policy
Eligibility Criteria for the UNIV’R Scholarship
To qualify for the UNIV’R Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Refugee Status Requirements
- Be a refugee individually recognized by UNHCR or by a State authority
- Currently residing in a first country of asylum outside the European Union
- Resettled refugees are NOT eligible for this program
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field of study
- Good academic record with evidence of strong GPA
- Academic transcripts demonstrating academic excellence
Age and Language Requirements
- Age limit: Maximum 35 years old at the time of application (some sources indicate 19-40 years)
- Language proficiency: Minimum B2 level in English and/or French (depending on the program of choice)
- Language certificate is recommended but not mandatory (B2 level attestation preferred)
Nationality
- Open to refugees of all nationalities worldwide
Required Documents for the UNIV’R Application
Applicants must prepare the following documents for submission:
- Proof of refugee status: UNHCR refugee certificate or state-issued refugee documentation
- Academic transcripts: Official transcripts from your Bachelor’s degree (and any other higher education)
- Degree certificate: Copy of your Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
- Academic recommendation letters: Letters from professors or academic supervisors
- Language proficiency evidence: B2 level certificate in French or English (recommended but not mandatory)
- CV/Resume: Updated curriculum vitae highlighting education, experience, and achievements
- Motivation letter/Personal statement: Explaining your academic goals and why you want to study at Sciences Po
- Passport/ID: Copy of valid travel document or identification
Application Timeline for the UNIV’R Scholarship 2026
Application Status: Currently Open (5th Cohort)
Key Dates
- Application Opens: November 28, 2025
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2026
- Results Notification: By June 2026 (via email)
- Program Starts: August/September 2026
- Program Duration: 2 years (until 2028)
How to Apply for the UNIV’R Scholarship
Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Research Master’s Programs: Visit the Sciences Po website to explore available Master’s programs and identify which program aligns with your academic background and career goals.
- Understand Admission Requirements: Learn about the international Master’s admission procedure at Sciences Po and ensure you meet the requirements for your chosen program.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required documents including transcripts, refugee status proof, recommendation letters, and language certificates.
- Create Sciences Po Application Account: Open an application file on the Sciences Po admission platform and complete the application form.
- Submit Sciences Po Application: Submit your complete application file via the Sciences Po admission platform with all required documents.
- Complete UNIV’R Application Form: After submitting your Sciences Po application, fill out the UNIV’R scholarship form via the UNHCR Opportunities portal.
- Submit Before Deadline: Ensure both applications are submitted before February 1, 2026.
- Await Results: Candidates will be notified of scholarship outcomes by email no later than June 2026.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early and thoroughly research the Master’s programs before applying
- Write a compelling personal statement explaining your refugee journey and academic aspirations
- Obtain strong academic recommendation letters from professors who know your work well
- Demonstrate your language proficiency (B2 level in French or English)
- Explain how your studies will contribute to your community upon return or completion
- Ensure all documents are properly translated if not in English or French
Frequently Asked Questions About the UNIV’R Scholarship
Who can apply for this scholarship?
This scholarship is exclusively for refugees recognized by UNHCR or a State authority who are currently residing in their first country of asylum outside the European Union. Resettled refugees are not eligible.
Is there an application fee?
No, there is no application fee for the UNIV’R Scholarship.
What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers full tuition fees, study grants, living allowance (including monthly food stipend), health insurance, and provides administrative and social support for the entire two-year Master’s program.
Are language tests required?
While a B2 level certificate in French or English is recommended, it is not mandatory. However, demonstrating language proficiency at B2 level will strengthen your application.
Can I work while studying?
Yes, students are allowed to work part-time during their studies in France under the long-stay student visa (VLS-TS).
Can my family accompany me?
No, this scholarship does not allow family members to accompany the student during the study period.
What are my options after completing the program?
After completing the program, graduates may be eligible for a work permit or temporary residency in France, opening doors to career opportunities in Europe.
Where can I apply for the UNIV’R Scholarship?
You need to submit two applications: first to Sciences Po via their admission platform, then to the UNIV’R program via the UNHCR Opportunities portal.
Final Thoughts on the UNIV’R Scholarship
The UNIV’R Scholarship Program 2026 represents a unique and transformative opportunity for refugees seeking to rebuild their lives through education. By partnering with Sciences Po Paris, one of the world’s most prestigious universities, this program offers not just academic excellence but a pathway to meaningful careers and lasting change.
The comprehensive support provided, from full tuition coverage to living expenses and administrative assistance, ensures that scholars can focus entirely on their studies and personal growth. The opportunity to study in Paris, live in France, and potentially work there after graduation opens doors that can transform entire trajectories.
If you are a refugee with a Bachelor’s degree, B2 level language skills, and dreams of pursuing a Master’s at a world-class institution, this scholarship is your opportunity. Remember, applications close on February 1, 2026, so start preparing your documents today.
Ready to Transform Your Future Through Education?
Apply now for the UNIV’R Scholarship and pursue your Master’s degree at Sciences Po Paris. Deadline: February 1, 2026!
Need Help With Your Scholarship Application?
ScholyHub Consultancy offers professional guidance to help refugees and international students maximize their chances of winning prestigious scholarships. Our experienced consultants can assist you with:
- Personal statement and motivation letter writing
- Document preparation and organization
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