Fully funded scholarships are scholarships that cover the full cost of your education abroad. This means that you don’t have to pay anything for your tuition fees, accommodation, food, travel, health insurance, and other expenses. You can focus on your studies and enjoy your experience without worrying about money. Sounds like a dream come true, right? Well, it can be, if you are lucky enough to get one of these scholarships.
Why should you study abroad with fully funded scholarships?
Studying abroad with fully funded scholarships can be a life-changing opportunity for you. Here are some of the benefits of studying abroad with fully funded scholarships:
- You can study at some of the best universities in the world, with high-quality education, facilities, resources, and networks that will boost your academic and professional development.
- You can explore different cultures, languages, and perspectives by living and studying in a foreign country. You can broaden your horizons, learn new skills, make new friends, and have fun. You can also travel to other places and discover new things.
- You can save a lot of money and avoid getting into debt. Studying abroad can be very expensive, especially if you have to pay for everything yourself. With a fully funded scholarship, you don’t have to worry about tuition fees, loans, or financial aid. You can graduate debt-free and start your career with a clean slate.
- You can improve your chances of getting a good job and a higher salary. Having a degree from a reputable university and a scholarship on your resume can make you stand out from the crowd and impress potential employers. You can also benefit from the alumni network and career services of your university and scholarship provider. You can find opportunities to work in your field of interest, either in your home country or abroad.
How to study abroad with fully funded scholarships?
Studying abroad with fully funded scholarships can be a challenging and competitive process, but it is not impossible. Here are some tips on how to study abroad with fully funded scholarships:
- Start your search early. Don’t wait until the last minute to look for scholarships. Many scholarships have deadlines that are months or even a year before the start of the academic year. You need to give yourself enough time to research, prepare, and submit your application. You can use online platforms, databases, blogs, and newsletters to find scholarships that match your profile and preferences. You can also ask your teachers, mentors, friends, or family for recommendations and advice.
- Choose the right scholarship for you. Don’t apply for every scholarship you find. Be selective and realistic. Choose the scholarships that suit your academic background, achievements, goals, and interests. Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and the requirements of the scholarship. Read the instructions carefully and follow them. Don’t waste your time and energy on scholarships that are not relevant or feasible for you.
- Prepare a strong application. Your application is your chance to showcase your personality, potential, and passion. You need to convince the scholarship committee that you are the best candidate for the scholarship. To do that, you need to prepare a compelling personal statement, a clear and concise resume, a well-written research proposal (if applicable), and strong letters of recommendation. You also need to provide evidence of your academic excellence, extracurricular activities, leadership skills, and social impact. You need to proofread and edit your application before submitting it. You can also ask someone else to review your application and give you feedback.
- Prepare for the interview. If you are shortlisted for the scholarship, you will most likely have to go through an interview. The interview is your opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills, confidence, and enthusiasm. You need to prepare for the interview by researching the scholarship provider, the university, and the country. You need to practice answering common and specific questions related to your application, your field of study, and your future plans. You need to dress professionally, be punctual, be polite, and be yourself.
Best countries to study abroad with fully funded scholarships
Now that you know what fully funded scholarships are, why you should study abroad with them, and how to study abroad with them, let’s take a look at some of the best countries that offer fully funded scholarships for international students. Here are the top 10 countries that you should consider studying abroad with fully funded scholarships:
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is one of the most popular and prestigious destinations for international students. It has some of the oldest and most renowned universities in the world, such as Oxford, Cambridge, London, and Edinburgh. It also has a rich and diverse culture, history, and landscape. The UK offers many fully funded scholarships for international students, such as:
- British Chevening Scholarships: These are the UK government’s global scholarship program that offers full or partial funding for one-year master’s degrees at any UK university. The scholarships are open to outstanding leaders and professionals from over 160 countries and territories who have at least two years of work experience. The scholarships cover tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, visa fees, and health insurance. The scholarships also provide access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and online courses. The application deadline for the 2024-2025 cycle is November 2, 2023. You can find more information and apply here.
- Rhodes Scholarships: These are one of the oldest and most prestigious scholarships in the world. They were established in 1902 by the will of Cecil Rhodes, a British businessman and politician who wanted to promote international understanding and peace. The scholarships enable exceptional students from 64 countries to pursue a postgraduate degree at the University of Oxford, one of the world’s leading universities. The scholarships cover all university and college fees, a personal stipend, a settling-in allowance, a health insurance, and a travel allowance. The scholarships also offer a comprehensive program of personal and professional development, mentoring, and networking. The application deadline varies depending on the country, but most of them are between June and October. You can find more information and apply here.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: These are UK-funded scholarships that support students from Commonwealth countries to pursue higher education in the UK or in other Commonwealth countries. The scholarships offer different schemes, such as master’s, PhD, split-site, distance learning, medical, and professional fellowships. The scholarships cover tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, and other costs. The scholarships are open to students from low and middle income Commonwealth countries who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least a second class upper division. The application deadline varies depending on the scheme and the country, but most of them are between August and December. You can find more information and apply here.
- United States
The United States is another popular and prestigious destination for international students. It has some of the best and most diverse universities in the world, such as Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and Berkeley. It also has a vibrant and multicultural society, with opportunities to explore different cities, states, and regions. The US offers many fully funded scholarships for international students, such as:
- Fulbright Scholarships: These are the flagship program of the US government that aims to foster mutual understanding and cooperation between the US and other countries through educational and cultural exchange. The scholarships offer various opportunities for students, scholars, teachers, professionals, and artists from over 160 countries to study, research, teach, or learn in the US. The scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and travel costs. The scholarships also provide orientation, enrichment, and support activities. The application deadline varies depending on the country and the program, but most of them are between February and October. You can find more information and apply here.
- Obama Foundation Scholars Program: This is a program that aims to support the next generation of leaders who are making a positive impact in their communities and the world. The program offers a one-year master’s degree or a non-degree program at Columbia University in New York City, one of the world’s top universities. The program covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other benefits. The program also provides leadership training, mentoring, networking, and service opportunities. The program is open to students from any country and any discipline who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least three years of work experience and a proven commitment to social change. The application deadline for the 2024-2025 cycle is February 1, 2024. You can find more information and apply here.
- Gates Cambridge Scholarships: These are prestigious scholarships funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation that enable outstanding students from outside the UK to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge, one of the world’s top universities. The scholarships cover the full cost of studying at Cambridge, including tuition fees, maintenance allowance, airfare, visa fees, and family allowance. The scholarships also provide academic and personal development, leadership and social activities, and mentoring and networking opportunities. The scholarships are open to students from any country and any discipline who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with excellent academic performance and leadership potential. The application deadline for the 2024-2025 cycle is October 13, 2023 for US citizens and January 5, 2024 for other citizens. You can find more information and apply here.
- Canada
Canada is one of the most welcoming and diverse countries in the world. It has some of the top-ranked and most innovative universities in the world, such as Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa. It also has a beautiful and diverse natural environment, with mountains, lakes, forests, and wildlife. Canada offers many fully funded scholarships for international students, such as:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: These are scholarships that aim to attract and retain world-class doctoral students who demonstrate leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement in the fields of natural sciences, engineering, health, social sciences, or humanities. The scholarships provide $50,000 per year for three years to cover tuition fees and living expenses. The scholarships are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students who are nominated by a Canadian university. The application deadline is usually in November. You can find more information and apply here.
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships: These are scholarships that recognize outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, creativity, leadership, and community involvement. The scholarships provide full tuition fees, books, incidental fees, and residence support for four years of undergraduate study at the University of Toronto, one of the world’s top universities. The scholarships are open to international students who are nominated by their high school and who have completed their secondary school education. The application deadline is usually in January. You can find more information and apply here.
- Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: These are scholarships that support doctoral students who are engaged in research and action on issues of critical importance to Canada and the world, such as human rights, democracy, diversity, and the environment. The scholarships provide $40,000 per year for three years, plus a travel and networking allowance of up to $20,000. The scholarships also provide mentoring, training, and networking opportunities. The scholarships are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and foreign nationals who are enrolled or accepted in a doctoral program in Canada or abroad. The application deadline is usually in December. You can find more information and apply here.
- Australia
Australia is one of the most diverse and multicultural countries in the world. It has some of the best and most modern universities in the world, such as Melbourne, Sydney, Queensland, and Australian National. It also has a stunning and unique natural environment, with beaches, deserts, rainforests, and coral reefs. Australia offers many fully funded scholarships for international students, such as:
- Australia Awards Scholarships: These are scholarships that aim to contribute to the development needs of Australia’s partner countries in the Indo-Pacific region. The scholarships provide full tuition fees, return air travel, establishment allowance, contribution to living expenses, health insurance, and other benefits. The scholarships are open to students from eligible countries who want to study at participating Australian institutions at the undergraduate, master’s, or PhD level. The scholarships are offered in the fields of agriculture, education, health, governance, infrastructure, and others. The application deadline varies depending on the country, but most of them are between February and April. You can find more information and apply here.
- Endeavour Leadership Program: This is a program that supports Australia’s first national strategy for international education and research. The program provides scholarships and fellowships for international students and researchers to undertake study, research, or professional development in Australia or overseas. The program covers tuition fees, travel allowance, establishment allowance, monthly stipend, health insurance, and other costs. The program is open to students and researchers from any country and any discipline who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent for master’s programs and a master’s degree or equivalent for PhD programs. The application deadline is usually in November. You can find more information and apply here.
- International Postgraduate Research Scholarships: These are scholarships that aim to support international students who want to undertake a postgraduate research degree in Australia and gain research skills and experience. The scholarships cover tuition fees and health insurance for up to two years for a master’s by research degree or up to three years for a doctoral degree. The scholarships are open to students from any country and any discipline who have a bachelor’s degree with first-class honours or equivalent. The application deadline varies depending on the university, but most of them are between July and October. You can find more information and apply here.
- Germany
Germany is one of the most influential and innovative countries in the world. It has some of the oldest and most respected universities in the world, such as Heidelberg, Munich, Berlin, and Freiburg. It also has a rich and diverse culture, history, and art. Germany offers many fully funded scholarships for international students, such as:
- DAAD Scholarships: These are scholarships and grants offered by the German Academic Exchange Service, a German organization that supports the internationalization of German higher education and research. The scholarships and grants cover tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance, travel allowance, and language course. The scholarships and grants are open to students and scholars from all disciplines and all levels of education, from undergraduate to postdoctoral. The application deadline varies depending on the program and the country, but most of them are between August and November. You can find more information and apply here.
- Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships: These are scholarships that aim to support young talents who have a strong commitment to democracy, human rights, social justice, and intercultural understanding. The scholarships provide monthly stipend, health insurance, travel costs, and other benefits. The scholarships are open to students from developing and emerging countries who want to pursue a master’s or PhD degree in Germany or Europe. The scholarships are offered in the fields of politics, law, economics, social sciences, humanities, and others. The application deadline varies depending on the region, but most of them are between January and March. You can find more information and apply here.
- Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships: These are scholarships that aim to support students and researchers who share the values of the Heinrich Böll Foundation, a German political foundation that promotes democracy, ecology, solidarity, and human rights. The scholarships provide monthly stipend, health insurance, travel costs, and other benefits. The scholarships are open to students and researchers from any country and any discipline who want to pursue a master’s or PhD degree in Germany. The scholarships are offered in the fields of politics, social sciences, humanities, arts, and others. The application deadline is usually in March for master’s programs and in September for PhD programs. You can find more information and apply here.
- France
France is one of the most beautiful and romantic countries in the world. It has some of the most prestigious and renowned universities in the world, such as Sorbonne, Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux. It also has a rich and diverse culture, history, and cuisine. France offers many fully funded scholarships for international students, such as:
- Eiffel Scholarship: This is a French government scholarship that aims to attract the best and brightest international students to pursue master’s or PhD degrees in France. The scholarship is open to students from developing and emerging countries who want to study in the fields of engineering, economics, management, law, or political science. The scholarship covers a monthly allowance, a return ticket, health insurance, and cultural activities. The scholarship does not cover tuition fees, but the French higher education institutions that host the students usually waive them. The application deadline for the 2024-2025 cycle is January 7, 2024. You can find more information and apply here.
- Emile Boutmy Scholarship: This is a scholarship that aims to support the internationalization of Sciences Po, a leading French university in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and public affairs. The scholarship provides partial or full tuition fees for undergraduate or master’s programs at Sciences Po. The scholarship is open to students from outside the European Union who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. The application deadline is usually in December for undergraduate programs and in January for master’s programs. You can find more information and apply here.
- Make Our Planet Great Again Scholarship: This is a scholarship that aims to support the implementation of the Paris Agreement on climate change and the sustainable development goals. The scholarship provides full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, and other benefits for master’s or PhD programs in France related to climate change, energy transition, or environmental protection. The scholarship is open to students from any country who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent for master’s programs and a master’s degree or equivalent for PhD programs. The application deadline is usually in March. You can find more information and apply here.
- Sweden
Sweden is one of the most progressive and innovative countries in the world. It has some of the best and most modern universities in the world, such as Stockholm, Lund, Uppsala, and Gothenburg. It also has a beautiful and peaceful natural environment with forests, lakes, islands, and mountains. Sweden offers many fully funded scholarships for international students, such as:
- Swedish Institute Scholarships: These scholarships aim to support the development and internationalization of Swedish higher education and research. The scholarships provide tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and insurance for master’s programs in Sweden. The scholarships are open to students from over 140 countries who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and who demonstrate leadership potential and a strong interest in Sweden and Swedish culture. The application deadline is usually in February. You can find more information and apply here.
- Visby Programme Scholarships: These scholarships aim to strengthen the academic cooperation and exchange between Sweden and the countries around the Baltic Sea and the Eastern Partnership. The scholarships provide tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and insurance for master’s or PhD programs in Sweden. The scholarships are open to students from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, and Ukraine who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent for master’s programs and a master’s degree or equivalent for PhD programs. The application deadline
The application deadline is usually in January. You can find more information and apply here.
- Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of the most open and tolerant countries in the world. It has some of the best and most international universities in the world, such as Amsterdam, Leiden, Utrecht, and Delft. It also has a vibrant and colorful culture, history, and art. The Netherlands offers many fully funded scholarships for international students, such as:
- Orange Knowledge Programme: This is a programme that aims to contribute to the sustainable development and capacity building of professionals and organizations in the fields of education, health, governance, and others. The programme provides full or partial funding for short courses, master’s programs, or tailor-made trainings in the Netherlands. The programme is open to students and professionals from 53 eligible countries who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and who have relevant work experience. The application deadline varies depending on the course or program, but most of them are between February and May. You can find more information and apply here.
- Holland Scholarship: This is a scholarship that aims to attract talented and motivated international students to study in the Netherlands. The scholarship provides a one-time payment of €5,000 for the first year of study at a participating Dutch university. The scholarship is open to students from outside the European Economic Area who want to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in any field of study. The application deadline is usually in February or May. You can find more information and apply here.
- Erasmus Mundus Scholarship: This is a European Union initiative that supports joint master’s and doctoral programs offered by consortia of universities from different countries in Europe and beyond. The scholarship covers the participation costs, monthly allowance, travel and installation costs, and insurance costs for the entire duration of the program. The scholarship is open to students from any country who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent for master’s programs and a master’s degree or equivalent for doctoral programs. The application deadline varies depending on the program, but most of them are between October and January. You can find more information and apply here.
- Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the most peaceful and prosperous countries in the world. It has some of the best and most prestigious universities in the world, such as Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, and Basel. It also has a stunning and diverse natural environment, with Alps, lakes, glaciers, and forests. Switzerland offers many fully funded scholarships for international students, such as:
- Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships: These are scholarships that aim to promote international cooperation and exchange in research and education. The scholarships provide tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance, travel costs, and other benefits for master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral programs in Switzerland. The scholarships are open to students and researchers from over 180 countries who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent for master’s programs, a master’s degree or equivalent for PhD programs, and a PhD degree or equivalent for postdoctoral programs. The application deadline varies depending on the country, but most of them are between September and December. You can find more information and apply here.
- ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship: This is a scholarship that aims to support outstanding students who want to pursue a master’s degree at ETH Zurich, one of the world’s top universities in science and technology. The scholarship provides a full or partial tuition waiver and a monthly stipend for the duration of the program. The scholarship is open to students from any country and any discipline who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with excellent academic performance. The application deadline is usually in December. You can find more information and apply here.
- EPFL Excellence Fellowship: This is a fellowship that aims to support talented students who want to pursue a master’s degree at EPFL, one of the world’s leading universities in engineering and science. The fellowship provides a tuition waiver and a monthly stipend for the duration of the program. The fellowship is open to students from any country and any discipline who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with outstanding academic performance. The application deadline is usually in January. You can find more information and apply here.
- China
China is one of the most dynamic and influential countries in the world. It has some of the best and most rapidly developing universities in the world, such as Tsinghua, Peking, Fudan, and Shanghai Jiao Tong. It also has a rich and diverse culture, history, and landscape. China offers many fully funded scholarships for international students, such as:
- Chinese Government Scholarship: This is a scholarship that aims to support the development of education and research in China and the world. The scholarship provides full or partial tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance, and other benefits for undergraduate, master’s, PhD, or non-degree programs in China. The scholarship is open to students from over 270 countries who have a high school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate programs, a bachelor’s degree or equivalent for master’s programs, and a master’s degree or equivalent for PhD programs. The application deadline varies depending on the program and the country, but most of them are between January and April. You can find more information and apply here.
- Confucius Institute Scholarship: This is a scholarship that aims to promote the teaching and learning of Chinese language and culture around the world. The scholarship provides full or partial tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance, and other benefits for Chinese language courses, bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD programs in China. The scholarship is open to students from any country who have a high school diploma or equivalent for Chinese language courses, a bachelor’s degree or equivalent for master’s programs, and a master’s degree or equivalent for PhD programs. The scholarship also requires a minimum level of Chinese language proficiency. The application deadline varies depending on the program and the country, but most of them are between March and May. You can find more information and apply here.
- Schwarzman Scholars Program: This is a program that aims to create a network of leaders who can understand and respond to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. The program offers a one-year master’s degree in global affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing, one of the world’s top universities. The program covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, health insurance, and other benefits. The program also provides leadership training, mentoring, networking, and cultural immersion. The program is open to students from any country and any discipline who have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with outstanding academic performance and leadership potential. The application deadline for the 2024-2025 cycle is September 21, 2023 for US citizens and January 19, 2024 for other citizens. You can find more information and apply here.
Conclusion
These are the top 10 countries to study abroad with fully funded scholarships that you should consider applying for. These countries can offer you an amazing and rewarding experience, as well as a valuable and respected degree. However, these countries are not the only ones that offer fully funded scholarships for international students. There are many other countries and scholarships that you can find and apply for, depending on your eligibility, preferences, and aspirations. You can use online tools, such as Bing, to search for more scholarships and get more information. You can also consult your teachers, mentors, or counselors for guidance and support. Remember, studying abroad with fully funded scholarships is not easy, but it is possible. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. So, don’t hesitate and start your application today. You never know; you might be the next lucky winner of a fully funded scholarship. Good luck!