Fully funded scholarships in Europe for international students 2025 - 2026

Studying abroad is a dream for many students around the world. Europe, with its rich cultural heritage and world-class education system, stands out as a prime destination. However, the cost of education and living expenses can be a significant barrier.

Fortunately, numerous fully funded scholarships are available to help international students achieve their academic goals without financial strain.

These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but often provide stipends for living expenses, travel allowances, and health insurance. They are offered by governments, universities, and organizations committed to promoting international education and cultural exchange.

Unlocking Europe’s Best Scholarships: A Guide for International Students

In this guide, we will explore some of the most prestigious and generous scholarships available in Europe.

Whether you’re aiming for a master’s or doctoral degree, these opportunities can pave the way for an enriching educational experience abroad.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Scholarship

Program Overview

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Scholarship is one of the most renowned scholarship programs in Europe.

Funded by the European Union, it aims to enhance the quality of higher education through scholarships and academic cooperation between Europe and the rest of the world.

The program offers students the chance to pursue joint master’s degrees across multiple European universities.

Benefits

Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend ranging from €1,000 to €1,500
Travel allowance
Insurance coverage.

Eligibility and Application Process

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and demonstrate proficiency in English through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. The application period typically runs from October to January for courses starting the following academic year.

Each master’s program has its own specific requirements and deadlines, so it’s crucial to consult the program’s official website for detailed information.

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship

Program Overview

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is designed for postgraduate researchers from all over the world who wish to pursue doctoral or postdoctoral research in Switzerland.

The scholarship promotes international exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and over 180 other countries.

Benefits

Full tuition fee exemption
Monthly stipend of approximately CHF 3,500
Health insurance
Airfare and housing allowance

Eligibility and Application Process

Candidates must have a solid research proposal and a master’s degree in the relevant field. Applications are submitted through the Swiss embassy in the applicant’s home country, with deadlines typically in December. FINMA

Master Mind Scholarship (Belgium)

Program Overview

The Master Mind Scholarship is offered by the Flemish Ministry of Education and Training to outstanding students worldwide who wish to pursue a master’s degree in Flanders or Brussels. The program aims to promote the internationalization of Flemish higher education.

Benefits

Tuition fee waiver
Annual stipend of €10,000

Eligibility and Application Process

Applicants should have a GPA of at least 3.5 out of 4.0 and demonstrate proficiency in English. They must apply through a Flemish higher education institution, which will preselect candidates and submit applications to the Flemish government.

DAAD German Scholarship

Program Overview

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a wide range of scholarships to international students for master’s and doctoral studies in Germany.

The program supports students from developing countries and aims to foster international academic exchange.

Benefits

Monthly stipend (€861 for graduates, €1,200 for doctoral candidates)
Travel allowance
Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
Tuition fee coverageDAAD

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific program, but generally include a bachelor’s degree and proficiency in English or German. Applications are submitted through the DAAD portal, with deadlines varying by program.

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Leiden University Scholarship (Netherlands)

Program Overview

Leiden University in the Netherlands offers the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) to talented non-EU/EEA students enrolling in a full-time master’s degree program.

Although not fully funded, this scholarship still provides significant financial assistance and is highly regarded in academic circles.

This opportunity is ideal for students who demonstrate exceptional academic merit and a keen interest in conducting research.

Leiden University is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in Europe, known for its strong research programs and vibrant international community.

Benefits

A scholarship amounting to €15,000, which can be used towards tuition fees.
Possibility of an application fee waiver, depending on the program.
Access to high-quality academic resources and a network of scholars.

Although it doesn’t cover living costs or offer a monthly stipend, the LExS helps reduce the financial burden significantly, making education in a top European institution more accessible.

Eligibility and Application Process

To qualify for the LExS:

Applicants must be non-EU/EEA students.
They must apply for a master’s program at Leiden University and be academically outstanding.
English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL is required.

Applications are submitted online through the university’s portal. Deadlines are program-specific but generally fall around February for programs starting in September. Always check the specific deadlines on the university’s official site.

Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)

Program Overview

Though the UK is no longer part of the European Union, it remains one of the top destinations for higher education in Europe. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships in the world, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

It supports postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge for international students who demonstrate outstanding intellectual ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving the lives of others.

Benefits

Full coverage of university composition fees.
A maintenance allowance for a single student (up to £18,744 for 12 months).
One economy single airfare at the beginning and end of the course.
Inbound visa costs and the cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge.

Additional discretionary funding is available for academic development, family allowance, fieldwork, and more.

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Eligibility and Application Process

Applicants must:

Be applying to a full-time postgraduate program at the University of Cambridge.
Be a citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom.
Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership qualities.

Applications are made through the University of Cambridge’s online application portal, and deadlines are usually in early December.

The process includes submitting a statement about how your background and experiences have shaped your academic journey and goals.

Danish Government Scholarship

Program Overview

The Danish Government Scholarship is offered to international students from outside the EU/EEA who are applying for full-degree higher education programs at participating Danish universities. The scholarship aims to promote cultural diversity and international education in Denmark.

Denmark is known for its high quality of life, innovative research environments, and strong emphasis on sustainability, making it an attractive destination for international students.

Benefits

Full tuition fee waiver.
Monthly living allowance to help cover basic living expenses.

The exact amount of the stipend can vary depending on the institution and the level of study but is generally enough to support a modest student lifestyle in Denmark.

Eligibility and Application Process

To be eligible, students must:

Be a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country.
Have applied for a full-degree program at a Danish university.
Demonstrate academic excellence and motivation.

Applications for the scholarship are made alongside the university admission application. There is no separate application process for the scholarship in most cases; candidates are automatically considered when they apply for the degree program. Check individual university websites for exact procedures and deadlines.

Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

Applying for international scholarships can be challenging, but with the right approach, your chances of success increase significantly. Here are some essential tips to help you stand out:

Start Early

Begin your research and preparations at least 6–12 months before the scholarship deadline. This gives you ample time to gather documents, write compelling statements, and contact potential referees.

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Craft a Strong Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your chance to showcase your personality, ambitions, and why you deserve the scholarship. Be honest, specific, and passionate. Explain how the program fits into your career goals and what impact you intend to make.

Get Stellar Recommendations

Choose referees who know you well and can speak about your academic abilities, character, and potential. Give them plenty of time to write and provide them with relevant information about the scholarship and your goals.

Tailor Each Application

Customize your application for each scholarship. Understand the mission and values of the awarding body and align your application accordingly. Avoid generic responses.

Double-Check Everything

Errors can cost you an opportunity. Proofread your application, ensure all documents are included, and follow the submission guidelines meticulously.

Conclusion

Europe offers a treasure trove of scholarship opportunities that can make studying abroad an achievable goal for many international students.

From the well-known Erasmus Mundus and DAAD scholarships to specialized programs like the Gates Cambridge and Swiss Excellence Scholarships, there is a wide array of fully and partially funded options across the continent.

These scholarships are more than just financial aids, they are gateways to cultural exchange, academic excellence, and professional growth.

With careful planning, strong applications, and a proactive attitude, you can take advantage of these opportunities to transform your future.

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Start your journey today by researching the scholarships mentioned in this guide, preparing your documents, and applying with confidence. Your dream of studying in Europe is closer than you think!

FAQs on Fully funded scholarships in Europe for international students.

Q1: Can I apply for more than one European scholarship at the same time?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s a smart strategy. Most scholarships in Europe are offered by different governments and institutions, so there’s no restriction on applying to multiple programs.

Just make sure to tailor each application to meet the specific requirements of each scholarship and submit them before their respective deadlines.

Q2: Do I need to know a European language to apply for these scholarships?

Not necessarily. Many scholarships and study programs in Europe are offered in English, especially at the master’s and PhD levels.

However, knowing the local language can be a plus, particularly for day-to-day living and interacting with locals, and might even improve your chances in some application processes.

Q3: What are my chances of winning a fully funded scholarship in Europe?

Competition can be intense, but thousands of students are awarded scholarships each year. Your chances improve significantly if you apply early, meet all eligibility requirements, submit a strong application, and have excellent academic records and references. Persistence is key.

Q4: What costs are usually not covered by these scholarships?

While most fully funded scholarships cover tuition fees, travel, and living expenses, there may be minor costs that are not included.

These can be student union fees, personal expenses (like leisure activities or extra books), visa processing fees, and sometimes accommodation costs if not specified.

Q5: Can I work part-time while studying on a scholarship in Europe?

Yes, in most European countries, international students are allowed to work part-time during their studies. However, if you’re receiving a scholarship that includes a monthly stipend, it’s best to check with the scholarship provider regarding any restrictions on employment. Some scholarships may have specific terms that limit working hours.

Final Words

Europe is not just a continent of history and culture, it’s also a land of opportunity for international students. The scholarships we’ve discussed are a testament to how seriously European countries take education and international cooperation.

They invest in bright minds from around the world, providing them with the means to succeed without the stress of financial burdens.

Take this guide as your starting point. Dive deep into the details of each scholarship, prepare diligently, and apply with all your heart. Remember, the only application that doesn’t stand a chance is the one you never submit.

You have the potential. Now, take the step.

Fully funded scholarships in Europe for international students 2025 – 2026