UNICORE 7.0 – University Corridors Italy for Refugees Scholarship 2025

The UNICORE 7.0 – University Corridors Italy for Refugees Scholarship 2025 is a life-changing initiative designed to open doors of higher education to refugees currently living in selected African countries. Launched by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) in partnership with UNHCR and several Italian universities, the programme aims to create safe and legal pathways for refugees to pursue advanced studies in Italy.

Through this scholarship, students are given the opportunity to continue their education, develop professional skills, and contribute positively to both their host and home communities. By covering tuition, living expenses, and providing integration support, UNICORE ensures that beneficiaries can focus entirely on their academic and personal growth. For refugees with limited access to higher education in their current countries, this scholarship is not just financial support—it is a pathway to rebuilding futures, advancing careers, and promoting global inclusion through education.

Scholarship Benefits for UNICORE 7.0 Scholarship 2025

The UNICORE 7.0 Scholarship offers comprehensive support to ensure refugee students can pursue higher education in Italy without financial and logistical barriers. Benefits typically include:

  • Tuition Fee Waiver: Full exemption from tuition fees at the host Italian university.
  • Living Allowance: A monthly stipend to cover food, transportation, and other essential living expenses while studying in Italy.
  • Accommodation Support: Free or subsidized housing provided by the university or local partners to ensure safe and stable living conditions.
  • Travel and Visa Assistance: Coverage of travel expenses (airfare) from the refugee’s country of residence to Italy and support with visa applications.
  • Language and Integration Support: Access to Italian language courses, academic mentoring, and integration services to help students adapt to their new environment.
  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage throughout the study period in Italy.
  • Career and Academic Guidance: Support in career counseling, research opportunities, and professional networking to help students prepare for future employment or further studies.

Participating Countries

The UNICORE 7.0 programme is designed to support refugees currently residing in selected African countries. For the 2025 edition, applicants must hold refugee status in one of the following participating countries:

  • Ethiopia
  • India
  • Kenya
  • Malawi
  • Mozambique
  • Namibia
  • Niger
  • Nigeria
  • South Africa
  • Tanzania
  • Uganda
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

Eligibility Criteria for for UNICORE 7.0 Scholarship 2025

To be eligible for the UNICORE 7.0 – University Corridors Italy for Refugees Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet specific requirements. These criteria ensure that the scholarship supports refugees who are most in need and academically prepared to benefit from higher education in Italy.

Refugee Status

  • Recognized Refugee: Applicants must hold recognized refugee status in one of the eligible countries. Proof of refugee status, such as documentation from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or relevant national authorities, is mandatory.

Academic Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants should have successfully completed a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification) from a recognized higher education institution. This degree must qualify them for admission into a Master’s programme in Italy.
  • Academic Excellence: A strong academic record is essential. Applicants with high GPAs, strong final results, or outstanding academic achievements will have an advantage in the selection process.

Admission to a Participating University

  • Offer of Admission: Applicants must receive an unconditional offer of admission to a Master’s programme at one of the Italian universities participating in the UNICORE 7.0 initiative.
  • Programme Requirements: The chosen Master’s programme should be taught in English or another language in which the applicant demonstrates proficiency. The programme must lead to a recognized academic qualification.

Language Proficiency

  • Proof of Proficiency: For English-taught programmes, applicants are required to demonstrate language proficiency. For instance, an IELTS overall score of at least 6.5, or an equivalent TOEFL score, may be required.

Special Focus Areas (If Applicable)

  • Research Interests: For certain programmes with a research focus, applicants may be expected to demonstrate interest in specific areas such as sustainable development, global challenges, or plant health. This highlights their commitment to applying knowledge for positive impact.

Application Process for UNICORE 7.0 Scholarship 2025

The application process for the UNICORE 7.0 Scholarship 2025 is structured to be accessible yet competitive. Applicants must carefully prepare their materials and meet all deadlines.

Step 1: Secure Admission

  • Apply for a Master’s Programme: Begin by applying to one of the participating Italian universities offering a Master’s degree under the UNICORE initiative.
  • Receive an Offer: Applicants must obtain an unconditional admission offer before proceeding with the scholarship application.

Step 2: Prepare Application Materials

Applicants should gather and prepare the following documents:

  • Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Certified copies of undergraduate transcripts and degree certificates.
  • Proof of Refugee Status: Valid documentation issued by UNHCR or national refugee authorities.
  • Personal Statement: A 500–1,000 word statement outlining academic background, motivations for studying in Italy, leadership experiences, and career goals.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Two to three strong letters from academic or professional referees.
  • Proof of Language Proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, or other recognized certificates (if required by the programme).
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV): Updated CV with academic, extracurricular, and leadership experiences.
  • Financial Documentation: (If required) Documents showing financial need, such as income statements or bank records.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

  • Access the Portal: Log into the official UNICORE 7.0 application portal available on the University Corridors website.
  • Fill Out the Form: Enter accurate academic, personal, and financial information.
  • Upload Documents: Attach all required documents in the specified format (PDF recommended).
  • Submit Before Deadline: Review the application carefully and submit it before the closing date.

Step 4: Selection and Follow-Up

  • Shortlisting: The selection committee reviews all applications, assessing academic merit, refugee status, leadership potential, and financial need.
  • Interview: Shortlisted applicants may be invited to attend an interview (online or in-person).
  • Final Notification: Successful candidates are informed via email with next steps regarding scholarship acceptance, travel arrangements, and visa application procedures.

Important Deadlines for UNICORE 7.0 Scholarship 2025

The UNICORE 7.0 application portal opens on 3 March 2025 (midday, UTC+1 time zone).

All applications, including supporting documents, must be submitted by 18 April 2025, 12:00 (UTC+2, Italian local time).

Results or notifications regarding scholarship decisions are expected by the end of June 2025.

Tips to Apply Successfully

Applying for the UNICORE 7.0 Scholarship is highly competitive. Here are practical tips to strengthen your application:

  • Apply Early: Begin your university admission process as soon as applications open. Early submission shows preparedness and prevents last-minute issues.
  • Highlight Academic Strengths: Emphasize strong grades, awards, or research projects in your transcripts, CV, and personal statement. Academic excellence is a key selection criterion.
  • Show Leadership and Community Impact: Demonstrate your involvement in volunteering, community service, or refugee-led initiatives. UNICORE values candidates who give back to their communities.
  • Write a Strong Personal Statement: Clearly explain your motivation to study in Italy, your academic and career goals, and how you plan to use your knowledge to make a difference.
  • Prepare Recommendation Letters Carefully: Choose referees who know you well academically or professionally. Their endorsement should highlight your skills, determination, and potential.
  • Meet Language Requirements: If applying for English-taught programmes, ensure you meet IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent requirements. Submit valid certificates before the deadline.
  • Stay Organized with Documents: Keep all necessary documents (refugee status proof, transcripts, language certificates, CV, etc.) ready, properly labeled, and in PDF format.
  • Check University-Specific Requirements: Each Italian university may have slightly different eligibility rules or application steps. Follow instructions on the specific university’s UNICORE webpage.
  • Prepare for Interviews: If shortlisted, practice answering questions about your academic background, personal goals, and how you plan to contribute to society after your studies.
  • Respect Deadlines: Late applications are not accepted. Keep a calendar with admission and scholarship deadlines to avoid missing out.