The UNICORE 8.0 Scholarship 2026 (University Corridors for Refugees) is a fully funded opportunity for refugee students to pursue a Master’s degree (Second Cycle Degree) in Italy. This programme is promoted by Italian universities in partnership with UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency), the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Caritas Italiana, Diaconia Valdese, Centro Astalli, and other organisations.
It provides safe, legal pathways for refugees to continue higher education in Italy, with classes starting in September 2026 at one of the participating Italian universities (over 37-41 universities are involved, offering various English-taught programmes).
Who Is Eligible?
To apply, you must meet these key requirements:
- Hold recognised refugee status (in collaboration with UNHCR) and currently reside in one of the following countries: Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, or Zimbabwe.
- Possess a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification) valid for admission to the chosen Master’s programme.
- Have a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 (or equivalent, based on the Italian Ministry of Education’s conversion table).
- Have obtained your degree in or after 2021 (some universities may have flexible rules—check individual calls for details; generally no earlier than 2020 in prior editions).
- Meet the specific admission requirements of the chosen Master’s programme (often English-taught).
- Not have previously enrolled in a degree programme at any partner university in the UNICORE consortium.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English (official certificate or proof that prior studies were in English).
Note: Applications are merit-based, inclusive, and free of charge. Fraudulent documents lead to disqualification and reporting.
Benefits of the UNICORE 8.0 Scholarship
Successful applicants receive comprehensive support, including:
- Full exemption from tuition fees at the participating Italian university.
- Financial support for visa-related expenses and air travel (plane tickets) to Italy.
- A study grant / monthly living allowance to cover accommodation, food, and other costs in Italy (amounts vary by university, often around €6,000 net per year).
- Academic and integration guidance from UNICORE partners throughout your studies.
The scholarship typically covers the full two-year Master’s programme (with possible extensions for graduation).
Required Documents
Prepare these documents (upload them during the online application):
- Valid refugee ID card or proof of refugee registration (issued in collaboration with UNHCR).
- Certificate of your Bachelor’s degree (including graduation date and final grade).
- Academic transcripts (list of exams passed with grades).
- GPA documentation or equivalent proof.
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter (explaining your background, goals, and reasons for applying).
- Proof of English proficiency (certificate or declaration from your university).
- Any additional documents required by the specific university or programme (e.g., reference letters).
How to Apply for the UNICORE 8.0 Scholarship 2026 – Step-by-Step
- Review the official details and prepare: Visit the official website to read the full guidelines, admission criteria, and explore available courses (courses become visible from 2 March 2026, noon UTC+1).
- Register an account: If you do not have one, sign up on the UNICORE platform here.
- Explore programmes: From 2 March 2026, browse English-taught Master’s programmes and participating universities here. You may apply to a maximum of two universities.
- Check individual university calls: Each university publishes its own call for applications with specific requirements and deadlines (some may vary slightly—always refer to these).
- Submit your application: Apply online via the UNICORE platform by the deadline of 17 April 2026 (noon, UTC+2). Upload all required documents. Late or incomplete applications are not accepted.
- Attend optional sessions: Join the information session on 17 March 2026 (9:30–11:00 Italy time) for guidance (registration available on the site).
- Wait for results: Universities handle selection individually. Final results are typically published by June/July 2026.