2026 cohort of UNIV’R programme
We are pleased to inform you that the call for applications for the 2026 cohort of the UNIV’R Programme is now open to 15 March 2026. The programme offers fully funded scholarships for refugees to pursue a two-year master’s degree (in English or French) at different universities across France, beginning August/September 2026.
The eligibility criteria are:
- Be refugees individually recognized by UNHCR;
- Be currently residing in a first country of asylum outside the European Union;
- Hold a passport with a remaining validity of at least two years;
- Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study;
- Have a minimum B2 level in English and/or French;
- Be no older than 30 years.
The scholarship is available for a variety of Master’s degree – find the full list of universities here.
This program aims to facilitate access to higher education in France and offers comprehensive support:
• Administrative, social, and financial support;
• Exemption from visa fees;
• Grant covering travel expenses and social security coverage.
If candidates have questions or would like support in their application process, they are encouraged to contact UNHCR or AFAD, our education partner.
If you want to study in English and wish to obtain a test to prove your level, please reach out to UNHCR for vouchers for Duolingo language testing.
To find out more about this opportunity, consult: https://enketo.unhcr.org/x/ryAecqtc
We would like to remind you that the document is automatically renewed on its expiration date. No prior appointment is required for this purpose.
Advice on Cash-Based Intervention (CBI)
UNHCR uses cash distributions to provide protection, assistance, and services to forcibly displaced persons in vulnerable situation. Cash-based interventions (CBIs) enable individuals to meet their most urgent needs, support livelihoods, and, where relevant, facilitate voluntary return. CBIs also contribute to protection outcomes by reducing risks and preserving households’ capacity to meet essential expenditures.
Due to limited resources, CBIs are available only to individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria.
- For the current CBI round (December 2025-January 2026), cash assistance is limited to recognised refugees only. Eligible individuals are being contacted directly and invited to attend the UNHCR office by appointment.
- For the next CBI round (tentatively planned for March 2026), UNHCR will target the most vulnerable individuals, regardless of their status – refugees and asylum seekers. To better assess vulnerabilities and personal circumstances, UNHCR partners conducted a phone-based survey in December 2025. Individuals eligible for cash assistance will be contacted directly in March 2026.
Please note that UNHCR is NOT able to confirm individual eligibility in advance for the next CBI round. To allow the office to focus on implementing the programme efficiently, we kindly request that individuals refrain from calling or visiting the office to inquire about eligibility or timeline. Thank you for your understanding.
Online Survey on Family Reunification
Help UNHCR Algeria improve how we support you access family reunification!
Have you ever heard of family reunification? Whether you have limited knowledge of it or are actively engaged in reunifying with a relative abroad, we want to hear your opinion.
Scan this QR code and fill our short survey on family reunification today!
You can also enter this link into your browser directly https://bit.ly/4iKIRr3
! Please only fill out this survey once !
If you are currently pursuing family reunification with a relative and require assistance, in addition to filling out the survey, you can contact UNHCR Algeria on +213 (0) 23 05 28 53/54 or at [email protected]