UNHCR UNICORE Scholarship to Study in Italy 2026

Applications for UNICORE 8.0 is open. 

The project University Corridors for Refugees UNICORE 8.0 is promoted by Italian Universities with the support of UNHCR, Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Caritas Italiana, Diaconia Valdese, Centro Astalli and other partners. It aims to increase opportunities for refugees currently residing in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe to continue their higher education in Italy.

Refugee students have the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree in Italy through the University Corridors for Refugees (UNICORE) programme.

🌍 Scholarship Overview

• Name: UNHCR UNICORE Scholarship 2026
• Country: Italy
• Level of Study: Master’s Degree (Postgraduate)
• Field of Study: Various fields offered by participating universities (e.g., Science, Engineering, Social Sciences, Humanities, etc.)
• Number of Scholarships: Varies annually (usually around 20–30)
• Duration: Typically 2 years (for 2-year master’s programs)
• Sponsoring Organizations: UNHCR, Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, participating Italian universities

About United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights and building a better future for refugees, forcibly displaced communities and stateless people.

The Scholarship Offers:

• Full tuition waiver
• Financial support for living expenses
• Additional study grant in Italy

Requirements for UNHCR UNICORE Scholarship Qualification

You may apply if you:

• Hold recognized refugee status
• Have a university degree earned in or after 2021 (and no later than 17 April 2026)
• Have a GPA of at least 3.0 (or equivalent)
• refugee students recognized as refugee in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Application Process

1. Check eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria (refugee status and academic qualifications).
2. Select a university program: Choose a master’s degree from the participating Italian universities. Make sure it aligns with your academic background and career goals.
3. Prepare application materials: You’ll need:
   • Bachelor’s degree transcript
   • Proof of refugee status (UNHCR certificate or equivalent)
   • Letter of recommendation
   • English proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
   • Motivation letter (explaining why you want to study in Italy and how it will help you contribute to your home country).
4. Submit your application: Follow the application guidelines on the UNICORE website (unicore-italia.org).
5. Interview: If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview to discuss your goals, motivation, and academic interests.
6. Await decision: Selected candidates will be notified, and their universities will send formal admission offers. (unhcr.org)