Réfugiés Enseignement Supérieur (Refugees Higher Education) (RES) is a non-profit organization committed to supporting access to higher education for people in exile in France, particularly in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The association supports beneficiaries of international protection (refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection), asylum seekers, and beneficiaries of temporary protection who wish to resume or pursue higher education after arriving in France.
RES works to remove the administrative, linguistic, academic and social barriers that limit access to universities. The organization provides individualized support including the assessment of academic backgrounds, the development of a study plan, assistance with university application procedures, and guidance in the recognition of foreign diplomas. Collective workshops are also organized to help participants prepare university applications, strengthen digital skills, and better understand the French higher education system.
The support provided by RES goes beyond university admission. Through its academic mentoring programme, the association continues to assist students after they enter university by pairing refugee students with student mentors. This programme encourages regular meetings, participation in workshops and training sessions, and guidance on navigating academic life and the university environment.
In addition to supporting access to education, RES develops initiatives that foster academic success and social integration, including socio-cultural activities and language support programmes.
RES’s activities are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 4 : Quality Education
- SDG 5 : Gender Equality
- SDG 8 : Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 10 : Reduced Inequalities
Through its programmes, RES contributes to building a more inclusive society where the skills, knowledge and potential of people in exile are recognized and valued.