Access to higher education can be a life-changing opportunity, yet for refugees, pursuing advanced studies often comes with complex barriers. The UNIV’R University Corridor programme in France, led by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), is designed to bridge that gap. This initiative provides a fully funded pathway for refugees to pursue a Master’s degree at French universities, combining academic excellence with practical support for relocation and integration.
What Is UNIV’R?
UNIV’R, short for Université pour les Réfugiés, is a collaborative initiative by UNHCR that connects refugee students living in their first country of asylum with higher education opportunities in France. Through partnerships with French universities, the programme enables selected candidates to undertake two-year Master’s degrees, fully supported financially.
This “university corridor” model is more than a scholarship. It is a structured pathway that facilitates the safe relocation of refugees for educational purposes while ensuring access to top-tier academic programs in France.
Why UNIV’R Matters
Education empowers individuals and communities. For refugee students, access to higher education can transform lives, opening doors to professional opportunities that would otherwise be inaccessible. UNIV’R offers a safe and structured path to pursue advanced studies, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and credentials to make meaningful contributions to society.
Who Is Eligible?
According to the official UNHCR sources, applicants must:
- Be recognized as refugees by UNHCR or a national authority.
- Reside in a first country of asylum outside the European Union.
- Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree (Bac+3) or equivalent.
- Demonstrate proficiency in French or English, depending on the chosen program.
- Be 30 years old or younger at the time of application.
The ENKETO application form provides a structured way for applicants to submit their personal, academic, and language details securely. It allows candidates to fill out sections gradually, with records stored locally in the browser and uploaded automatically when online, ensuring flexibility during the application process.
What Does the Programme Offer?
UNIV’R provides comprehensive support to ensure students can focus on their academic and professional growth:
- Tuition and registration fees fully covered.
- Living stipend for accommodation, food, and essential expenses.
- Health insurance and medical support during studies.
- Assistance with travel and relocation to France.
- Guidance on academic and administrative processes to ensure smooth integration into French universities.
This level of support reduces financial and logistical barriers, making it possible for talented refugee students to thrive academically.
Academic Opportunities and Partner Universities
The programme partners with several renowned French institutions, offering Master’s programs in diverse fields such as social sciences, economics, public policy, and STEM disciplines. Candidates can select programs that align with their academic background and professional ambitions.
Through this corridor, refugees gain access not only to world-class education but also to mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities that significantly expand their future career prospects.
How to Apply
The application for the 2026 academic intake is open through the ENKETO online platform. Applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria and prepare the necessary documents, such as academic transcripts and proof of language proficiency, before beginning the submission. The platform allows partial completion of the application, with automatic storage of records locally in the browser and upload when connected to the internet.
Deadline
📅 Applications close on 15 March 2026 at 23:59 Paris time.
Candidates are encouraged to begin their application early to ensure all required information is complete and accurate.
Learn more and apply here.
This initiative reflects a meaningful step toward more equitable global access to higher education, and its fully funded Master’s pathway empowers participants to pursue careers that can shape their futures and uplift their communities
Looking for more opportunities? Check out the Opportunities for Youth website.
