Are you an international student dreaming of studying abroad but worried about the cost? What if we told you there are scholarships that cover everything—from tuition fees and living costs to travel and even books? That’s exactly what fully funded scholarships do. In this guide, we walk you through 20 of the best opportunities available, step by step. Ready to secure your spot? Let’s dive in.
What Are Fully Funded Scholarships?
Fully funded scholarships are financial awards that cover all academic expenses for international students. These include tuition fees, accommodation, travel costs, insurance, and monthly stipends. Think of them as your golden ticket to studying abroad without carrying the burden of student loans.
Why You Should Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships
Why take on debt when someone else can fund your dreams? Fully funded scholarships allow you to study stress-free, focus on academics, and engage in global networking. Plus, winning one gives you credibility and improves your career prospects exponentially. Isn’t that a win-win?
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Eligibility depends on each scholarship, but in general:
- You must be an international student (non-citizen of the host country).
- You should have excellent academic records.
- Most scholarships require proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Leadership experience or community involvement boosts your chances.
General Application Requirements
Each scholarship has unique requirements, but here’s what you’ll commonly need:
- Academic transcripts
- A strong personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- English proficiency test scores
- Valid passport
- Sometimes, proof of financial need
When to Apply: Key Deadlines
Missing a deadline could mean waiting another year. Here’s what to know:
- Deadlines vary between August and January, depending on the scholarship.
- Some are tied to university admission timelines.
- Plan 6–12 months in advance to gather documents and polish your application.
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships
The process may seem overwhelming, but here’s a step-by-step strategy:
- Research and shortlist relevant scholarships.
- Review the eligibility criteria thoroughly.
- Gather required documents early.
- Write a compelling personal statement.
- Apply through the scholarship’s official portal.
- Track your application and follow up.
Top 20 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
Let’s explore the real deal—20 generous scholarships with full coverage.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
- Amount: Covers tuition, airfare, living stipend, health insurance.
- Eligibility: For students from over 160 countries.
- Deadline: Varies by country (generally May–October).
- Why Apply: Offers prestige and alumni network across sectors.
- How to Apply: Through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in your home country.
“Fulbright not only funds your studies, but also invests in your global leadership potential.” — Fulbright Alumni, Kenya
2. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
- Amount: Covers tuition, travel, and monthly allowance.
- Eligibility: Mid-career professionals with leadership potential.
- Deadline: Early November.
- Why Apply: UK’s top global scholarship with access to elite alumni networks.
- How to Apply: Via Chevening’s official website.
3. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
- Amount: Full tuition, travel, and €934/month stipend.
- Eligibility: Graduates with two years of work experience.
- Deadline: October–December.
- Why Apply: Germany offers tuition-free education and world-class research.
- How to Apply: Online via DAAD portal.
4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EU)
- Amount: Tuition, travel, insurance, and living allowance.
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree holders worldwide.
- Deadline: December–March.
- Why Apply: Study in multiple European countries and earn dual degrees.
- How to Apply: Through the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue.
5. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
- Amount: Tuition, airfare, and living stipend.
- Eligibility: Citizens of low and middle-income Commonwealth countries.
- Deadline: Varies by nominating body.
- Why Apply: Supports students committed to development.
- How to Apply: Through national nominating agencies.
6. Gates Cambridge Scholarships (UK)
- Amount: Covers all costs plus discretionary funding.
- Eligibility: Non-UK citizens for graduate study at Cambridge.
- Deadline: October–December.
- Why Apply: Highly competitive with a focus on leadership and impact.
- How to Apply: Through University of Cambridge portal.
7. Knight-Hennessy Scholars (USA)
- Amount: Full tuition and stipend for Stanford University programs.
- Eligibility: Global students from any academic background.
- Deadline: October.
- Why Apply: Builds a multidisciplinary leadership community.
- How to Apply: Stanford’s Knight-Hennessy application system.
8. ADB-Japan Scholarship Program
- Amount: Tuition, housing, books, and travel allowance.
- Eligibility: Citizens of ADB’s developing member countries.
- Deadline: March.
- Why Apply: Focus on development-related fields.
- How to Apply: Through participating universities.
9. Rotary Foundation Global Grant (Worldwide)
- Amount: Minimum $30,000 for graduate-level coursework or research.
- Eligibility: Graduate students with community service goals.
- Deadline: Rolling.
- Why Apply: Flexible and globally recognized.
- How to Apply: Through a local Rotary Club.
10. Australia Awards Scholarships
- Amount: Full tuition, airfare, living expenses.
- Eligibility: Citizens from developing countries in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific.
- Deadline: April–May.
- Why Apply: Australia’s premier scholarship for international development.
- How to Apply: Through DFAT’s application portal.
11. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (France)
- Amount: Monthly allowance (€1,181), travel, insurance.
- Eligibility: Non-French nationals under 30 (Master’s), 35 (PhD).
- Deadline: January.
- Why Apply: Offers access to France’s top institutions.
- How to Apply: Nominated by French institutions.
12. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
- Amount: Monthly stipend, tuition waiver, health insurance.
- Eligibility: Postgraduate students in research or arts.
- Deadline: October–December.
- Why Apply: Funded by Swiss Confederation with international prestige.
- How to Apply: Contact Swiss Embassy in your country.
13. Japanese MEXT Scholarship
- Amount: Full tuition, round-trip airfare, and monthly allowance.
- Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate international students.
- Deadline: April–May.
- Why Apply: Direct government funding, very competitive.
- How to Apply: Through Japanese embassies or universities.
14. Holland Scholarships (Netherlands)
- Amount: €5,000 one-time award.
- Eligibility: Non-EEA students applying for bachelor’s or master’s.
- Deadline: February–May.
- Why Apply: Gateway to studying in Dutch universities.
- How to Apply: Via participating Dutch institutions.
15. Türkiye Scholarships (Turkey)
- Amount: Tuition, airfare, accommodation, stipend, insurance.
- Eligibility: Students from all over the world.
- Deadline: January–February.
- Why Apply: Covers all levels—bachelor’s to PhD.
- How to Apply: Online via Türkiye Scholarships portal.
16. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Canada)
- Amount: Full tuition, books, and residence support for 4 years.
- Eligibility: Exceptional international secondary school students.
- Deadline: November (nomination), January (application).
- Why Apply: Exclusive to University of Toronto.
- How to Apply: Nominated by school, then apply to UofT.
17. New Zealand Government Scholarships
- Amount: Tuition, airfare, stipend, insurance.
- Eligibility: Students from eligible developing countries.
- Deadline: February–March.
- Why Apply: For students in development-focused fields.
- How to Apply: Online through MFAT scholarship portal.
18. Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
- Amount: Full tuition, monthly stipend (up to SGD 3,200), airfare.
- Eligibility: International students pursuing PhD in science/tech.
- Deadline: June and December.
- Why Apply: Access to top research labs in Asia.
- How to Apply: Online at SINGA portal.
19. OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) Scholarship
- Amount: Full tuition, living allowance, insurance, travel.
- Eligibility: Students from developing countries.
- Deadline: Usually May.
- Why Apply: Targeted at sustainable development professionals.
- How to Apply: Online application through OFID’s website.
20. Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP)
- Amount: Full tuition, airfare, monthly allowance, settlement support.
- Eligibility: International students in undergrad and graduate programs.
- Deadline: February–March.
- Why Apply: Study at top Korean universities.
- How to Apply: Via Korean embassies or universities.
FAQs About Fully Funded Scholarships
Q1: Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes! In fact, it’s wise to apply to several. Just ensure you meet each one’s specific requirements.
Q2: Are fully funded scholarships really free?
Yes. These scholarships typically cover all academic and living expenses. Some even provide travel and health insurance.
Q3: What GPA do I need?
Most require at least a 3.0 GPA or equivalent. Competitive scholarships often demand higher.
Q4: Can I work while on a scholarship?
This depends on the host country’s visa policy. Some allow part-time work; others don’t.
Q5: What if I’m not from a developing country?
There are many scholarships for students from developed nations too. Focus on university-specific or regional programs.
Conclusion
We know navigating scholarships can feel like finding a needle in a haystack—but once you secure one, it’s life-changing. These 20 fully funded scholarships open doors to global education, professional growth, and personal transformation. Don’t wait—research, apply early, and let your dreams take flight. Your future deserves it.