Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in 2025

Are you dreaming of studying abroad but worried about the costs? Good news! There are numerous fully funded scholarships available for international students in 2025.

These scholarships cover everything from tuition fees to living expenses, travel costs, and even health insurance.

List of Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students

Let’s explore some of the top opportunities you can apply for, organized by application deadlines to help you plan effectively.

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship

Study in Multiple European Countries

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship offers students the chance to study in various European universities.

This program provides a unique opportunity to gain diverse cultural and academic experiences.

What It Covers:

• Full tuition fees

• Travel expenses

• Installation costs

• Monthly living allowanceRotary International+11Erasmus++11Opportunities and Careers+11Study with New Zealand+6Scholarship Roar+6DFAT+6

How to Apply:

• Apply directly through the selected Erasmus Mundus programs.

• Prepare necessary documents like your CV, academic transcripts, and a motivation letter.NZ Scholarships+15ScholarshipsAds+15Our Midland+15

Deadline: Varies by program; check specific program deadlines.

2. VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium)

Study in Belgium

The VLIR-UOS Scholarships are aimed at students from developing countries who wish to pursue a master’s degree in Belgium.

This scholarship promotes mutual understanding and knowledge sharing.opportunitydesk.org

What It Covers:

• Tuition fees

• Travel expenses

• Accommodation

• Living expenses

• Health insurancesbfi.admin.ch+7master-egei.eu+7Fulbright Online+7

How to Apply:

• Apply through Belgian universities that offer eligible programs.

• Submit your academic transcripts and a motivation letter.

Deadline: February 1, 2025, for most programs; some extend to February 28, 2025. GreatYop

3. New Zealand Government Manaaki Scholarships

Study in New Zealand

Read on: Gates Cambridge Full Scholarships in the UK 2025

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships provide opportunities for students from developing countries to study in New Zealand.

These scholarships aim to build potential leaders by offering academic and leadership development.NZ Scholarships+1ScholarshipsAds+1The Australian

What It Covers:

• Full tuition fees

• Travel expenses

• Living stipend

• Health insurance

How to Apply:

• Apply online via the New Zealand scholarships portal.

• Prepare your academic transcripts, references, and a study plan.

Deadline: February 28, 2025. The World Bank Documents+4Scholarships Announcement+4ScholarshipsAds+4

4. Finland Government Scholarship

Study in Finland

Finland offers scholarships for international students to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The country is known for its high-quality education system and innovative learning environments.

What It Covers:

• Tuition fees

• Monthly stipend

• Health insurancemaster-egei.eu+13Fulbright Scholars+13Commonwealth Scholarship UK+13

How to Apply:

• Apply directly to Finnish universities through the Studyinfo.fi portal.Fulbright Scholars+2Scholarships Announcement+2ScholyHub+2

Deadline: January 17, 2025. Scholars Avenue+1vliruos.be+1

5. MEXT Japanese Government Scholarship

Study in Japan

The MEXT Scholarship by the Japanese government allows international students to study in Japan at various academic levels. This scholarship aims to foster international exchange and mutual understanding.

Read more: The Part Time MBA Scholarship (Public / Government sector) 2024

What It Covers:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly stipend

• Airfare

• Accommodation assistanceGrabScholarships+1Scholarships Announcement+1Scholarship Roar

How to Apply:

• Apply through the Japanese Embassy in your country or directly to Japanese universities.

• Prepare necessary documents like academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a study plan.

Deadline: May 30, 2025. Embassy of Japan in the USA

Study in China

The Chinese Government Scholarship, also known as the CSC Scholarship, provides a golden opportunity for international students to study at some of China’s top universities.

This scholarship not only opens doors to a world-class education but also exposes students to the rich cultural history of China.

What It Covers:

• Full tuition fees

• Free on-campus accommodation

• Monthly stipend for living expenses

• Comprehensive medical insurance

How to Apply:

• Apply through the Chinese Government Scholarship Information System (CSC portal).

• Choose a participating university in China and apply to their programs.

• Submit necessary documents: transcripts, a study plan, recommendation letters, and a passport copy.

Tips for a Strong Application:

• Write a detailed and personal study plan. Make sure it aligns with the university’s strengths.

• Secure strong recommendation letters from professors or mentors.

• Learn basic Chinese language skills, this shows commitment.

Deadline: Varies between universities but typically closes in April 2025.

7. Australia Awards Scholarship

Study in Australia

Australia Awards are prestigious scholarships offered by the Australian Government to students from developing countries. These scholarships are not just about academics, they also focus on leadership and development.

See also: Gates Cambridge Full Scholarships in the UK 2025

What It Covers:

• Full tuition

• Return airfare

• Establishment allowance

• Living expenses (stipend)

• Health insurance

How to Apply:

• Apply online via the Australia Awards application portal.

• Submit academic transcripts, references, and, if required, a research proposal.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be from an eligible country (check the Australia Awards website).

• Minimum academic and English language requirements.

Bonus Tip: Focus your application on how your studies in Australia will help improve conditions in your home country. This aligns with their development goals.

Deadline: Usually April 30, 2025.

8. Fulbright Scholarship (USA)

Study in the United States

The Fulbright Scholarship is one of the most recognized international scholarships in the world. It allows students to study, teach, or conduct research in the U.S. and is open to applicants from more than 160 countries.

What It Covers:

• Full tuition

• Airfare to and from the U.S.

• Monthly living stipend

• Health insurance

• Research expenses

How to Apply:

• Submit an online application including a personal statement, academic transcripts, references, and study/research objectives.

• Participate in an interview if shortlisted.

Why Choose Fulbright:

• Access to top U.S. universities

• Strong alumni network

• Support and resources during and after the program

Deadline: April 2025 (varies by country, so check your local U.S. embassy site).

9. Rotary Foundation Global Grants

Study Anywhere in the World

Rotary Foundation Global Grants are perfect for students who want to make a difference. They fund graduate-level coursework or research that fits within Rotary’s focus areas, such as peace, water, education, and economic development.

What It Covers:

• Tuition

• Travel expenses

• Living costs

• Language training

• Research-related costs

How to Apply:

• Apply through a local Rotary Club near you.

• Work with a host club in the country where you’ll study.

• Submit academic transcripts, a CV, and a detailed project proposal.

See more: Scholarships to Study in the United States: Everything you need to know to get one

Eligibility Tips:

• You must propose a sustainable project aligned with Rotary’s goals.

• Community involvement is a major plus.

Deadline: May 2025 (varies by club and country).

10. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

Study in the USA, Japan, or Partner Countries

This unique scholarship supports students from developing countries who want to study at one of the partner universities in fields related to development.

What It Covers:

• Tuition and fees

• Round-trip airfare

• Monthly living stipend

• Health insurance

How to Apply:

1. Apply and get accepted into a partner university.

2. After admission, apply for the scholarship through the JJ/WBGSP portal.

3. Prepare documents such as academic transcripts, professional references, and a development-related study plan.

Pro Tips:

• This scholarship is highly competitive, be clear about how your studies will help solve development issues in your country.

• Highlight professional experience in your application.

Deadline: May 2025 (confirm on the World Bank’s official site).

11. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

Study in Germany

Germany is known for its free or low-cost education, and the DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) Scholarships take that even further.

This scholarship is one of the most generous for international students wishing to study in Germany.

What It Covers:

• Full tuition (where applicable)

• Monthly stipend

• Travel allowance

• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance

How to Apply:

• Apply through the DAAD scholarship portal.

• Submit a motivation letter, academic transcripts, references, and proof of university admission.

Why Choose DAAD:

• Germany has some of the best universities in Europe.

• DAAD supports a wide variety of courses, especially in engineering, social sciences, and public policy.

• The scholarship even includes a preparatory German language course if required.

Eligibility Tips:

Read on: CEU Full Scholarships in Hungary 2025

• Focus on how your course aligns with your career goals.

• Include clear explanations in your motivation letter about your future plans.

Deadline: July 2025, but specific dates vary by university and program.

12. Commonwealth Scholarship (UK)

Study in the United Kingdom

The Commonwealth Scholarship is a flagship program by the UK government for students from Commonwealth countries. This scholarship is aimed at helping talented students study in the UK and contribute to the development of their home countries.

What It Covers:

• Full tuition

• Travel to and from the UK

• Living expenses

• Research-related costs

• Warm clothing and thesis grants (if applicable)

How to Apply:

• Apply through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) website.

• You can also apply via a nominating agency in your home country.

Who Can Apply:

• Citizens of a Commonwealth country

• Applicants must show financial need and academic excellence

Strong Application Tips:

• Tailor your personal statement to reflect leadership potential and development goals.

• Mention specific issues in your country you plan to address after your studies.

Deadline: December 2025.

13. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

Study in Switzerland

Switzerland isn’t just about mountains and chocolate, it’s also home to top-tier universities. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are for postgraduate researchers and artists from over 180 countries.

What It Covers:

• Full tuition

• Monthly allowance

• Housing allowance

• Travel costs

• Health insurance

How to Apply:

• Apply via the Swiss Embassy in your home country.

• Submit a detailed research proposal, CV, academic transcripts, and a letter of recommendation.

Top Tip: If you’re applying for a research program, your proposal must be clear, concise, and show long-term value.

Check out: How to Get a Fully Funded Scholarship to Study at Oxford University (2025)

Deadline: December 2025 (specific dates may vary by country).

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of fully funded scholarships available for international students in 2025. Whether you want to study in Europe, Asia, Oceania, or America, there’s something here for you.

Each scholarship has its own focus, application method, and deadline, so the key is to start early and apply strategically.

Use this guide as a calendar to track deadlines and plan your applications. Focus on crafting powerful motivation letters, collecting strong references, and showing how your education will make a difference.

And remember, the journey may be tough, but the reward, getting a world-class education for free, is absolutely worth it.

Start your application today, and take that first step toward changing your future!

FAQs on Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students

1. Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for several scholarships, but be sure to tailor each application to the specific program.

2. What documents do I usually need?
Common documents include academic transcripts, a CV or resume, motivation or personal statement, reference letters, and a study or research plan.

3. Are these scholarships only for graduate students?
Many are for graduate students, but some (like Erasmus Mundus) also include undergraduate and doctoral opportunities. Check each scholarship’s details.

4. Do I need to speak the language of the host country?
Not always. Many programs are taught in English, but learning the local language can help your application and daily life abroad.

5. What makes an application stand out?
Passion, clarity of purpose, alignment with the scholarship’s goals, and a well-written motivation letter are key. Don’t forget strong recommendation letters!