Studying abroad shouldn't depend on your family's bank account. Yet tuition, living expenses, and travel costs can easily exceed $50,000 per year at top universities. The reality is harsh—talented students miss life-changing opportunities simply because they can't afford them.
Here's the better reality: hundreds of fully funded scholarships exist specifically for international students. These programs cover everything from tuition to housing to flights home. No loans, no debt, just genuine financial support for deserving students.
I've researched and compiled 25 legitimate fully funded scholarships that accept applications from international students in 2025. These aren't partial grants or tuition waivers—they're comprehensive packages that let you focus on learning instead of worrying about money.
What Does "Fully Funded" Actually Mean?
Before we get into the list, let's clarify what fully funded means. A genuine fully funded scholarship typically covers:
- Full tuition and mandatory university fees
- Monthly living stipend for food and personal expenses
- Accommodation or housing allowance
- Round-trip airfare to and from your home country
- Health insurance coverage
- Book and study material allowances
- Sometimes: visa fees, settling-in allowance, and travel grants
If a scholarship doesn't cover at least tuition, living costs, and accommodation, it's not truly fully funded.
Scholarships for Undergraduate Studies
1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
One of the largest scholarship programs globally, the Mastercard Foundation has supported over 50,000 young people from Africa and other developing regions since its launch.
Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, meals, books, travel, health insurance, and a laptop. The program also provides leadership development training and mentorship worth approximately $50,000-$70,000 per year depending on the host university.
Eligible countries: Primarily African countries and select developing nations
Study destinations: Multiple universities including University of Edinburgh (UK), McGill University (Canada), University of California Berkeley (USA), and several African universities
Requirements: Strong academic record, demonstrated leadership potential, financial need, and commitment to giving back to your community
Application period: Varies by partner university, typically August-December
2. Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)
Australia offers thousands of fully funded positions for exceptional undergraduate and postgraduate research students through government funding.
Coverage: Full tuition fees (worth up to $50,000 per year), living allowance of approximately $33,000 per year, health insurance, and thesis costs
Eligible countries: All international students
Study destinations: Australian universities
Requirements: Strong academic performance, admission to a research program at an Australian university
Application period: Year-round, depending on university intake
3. University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
Named after Canada's 14th Prime Minister, this program recognizes international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and creativity.
Coverage: Tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years. Total value exceeds $300,000 over four years.
Eligible countries: All international students
Study destinations: University of Toronto, Canada
Requirements: Must be nominated by your school, outstanding academic record, demonstrated leadership
Application period: Nominations due in November annually
4. Yale University Undergraduate Scholarships
Yale practices need-blind admissions for all applicants and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need with grant-based aid.
Coverage: Full financial need met through grants (no loans), including tuition ($64,700), room and board ($19,500), books, and personal expenses
Eligible countries: All international students
Study destinations: Yale University, USA
Requirements: Admission to Yale (acceptance rate approximately 4.5%), demonstrated financial need
Application period: November-January
5. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss government offers scholarships for research studies, arts, and postgraduate programs to promote international exchange and research cooperation.
Coverage: Monthly allowance of CHF 1,920 (approximately $2,200), tuition fee waiver, health insurance, housing allowance, and round-trip flight
Eligible countries: Over 180 countries
Study destinations: Swiss universities and institutions
Requirements: Bachelor's degree completed, strong academic record, research proposal
Application period: Varies by country, typically August-December
Scholarships for Master's Studies
6. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
Since 1983, Chevening has brought over 50,000 exceptional professionals from around the world to the UK Chevening Timeline: Scholarship Application Deadlines 2024-2025 - Wordvice, making it one of the most prestigious international scholarship programs globally.
Coverage: University tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, an economy class return airfare to the UK, and additional grants and allowances to cover essential expenditure Chevening Scholarship 2026 | Application Process (Fully Funded) – Scholarship Roar
Eligible countries: Over 160 countries and territories
Study destinations: Any UK university
Requirements: Minimum of 2 years work experience (2,800 hours), bachelor's degree, leadership potential, admission to a UK university
Application period: Opens in August, closes in November annually
Success rate: Approximately 2-3% of applicants receive the scholarship, with around 1,500 awards given annually
7. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
Fulbright Foreign Student Program covers full tuition fee, a living stipend, full accommodation fee, airfare and health insurance International Student Scholarships — The Scholarship Collective ®, supporting graduate students, young professionals and artists for study and research in the United States.
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend ($1,500-$2,500 depending on location), health insurance, round-trip travel, and book allowance
Eligible countries: Over 155 countries
Study destinations: Any accredited US university
Requirements: Bachelor's degree, strong academic record, English proficiency, leadership potential, home country residency
Application period: Varies by country, typically February-October
Awards annually: Approximately 4,000 international students receive Fulbright grants each year
8. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is one of the world's largest funding organizations, supporting over 100,000 German and international students annually.
Coverage: Monthly stipend of €934 for graduates plus health insurance, travel allowance, and tuition fees where applicable. PhD students receive €1,200 monthly.
Eligible countries: All countries
Study destinations: German universities
Requirements: Bachelor's degree completed within the last 6 years, strong academic record, German or English language proficiency depending on program
Application period: Varies by program, major deadlines in August-November
9. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
The European Union funds exceptional joint master's programs taught by consortia of European universities, with over 70 different programs available.
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly allowance (€1,000-€1,400), travel costs, and installation allowance. Total value approximately €25,000-€45,000 depending on program length.
Eligible countries: All countries worldwide
Study destinations: Multiple European countries (students study in at least 2 countries)
Requirements: Bachelor's degree, strong academic record, English proficiency, specific program requirements
Application period: October-January for most programs
Success rate: Varies by program, typically 10-20% acceptance rate
10. Sweden Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals
Sweden invests heavily in international talent development, offering comprehensive support for master's students.
Coverage: Full tuition fees (worth up to $20,000), living expenses of SEK 12,000 (approximately $1,100) per month, travel grant, and insurance
Eligible countries: Select countries from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe
Study destinations: Swedish universities
Requirements: Bachelor's degree, work experience, leadership potential, demonstrated interest in Sweden
Application period: Opens in December, closes in February
11. Orange Knowledge Programme (Netherlands)
Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this program strengthens capacity in priority sectors in select countries.
Coverage: Full tuition, visa costs, travel, insurance, living allowance (€1,000-€1,300 per month depending on program)
Eligible countries: 51 countries from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Middle East
Study destinations: Dutch universities and institutions
Requirements: Bachelor's degree, work experience in relevant sector, English proficiency, employer support
Application period: February-May annually
12. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships
Japan's Ministry of Education offers comprehensive support for international students pursuing various academic levels.
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly allowance of ¥144,000 (approximately $1,000), round-trip airfare, no tuition fees
Eligible countries: All countries
Study destinations: Japanese universities
Requirements: Bachelor's degree, strong academic record, willingness to learn Japanese
Application period: April-June through Japanese embassies
Awards annually: Approximately 400-500 research students selected globally each year
13. Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP)
South Korea has invested significantly in attracting international talent, with thousands of fully funded positions available annually.
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly living allowance of KRW 1,000,000 (approximately $750), settlement allowance, airfare, Korean language training, health insurance
Eligible countries: Over 160 countries
Study destinations: Korean universities
Requirements: Bachelor's degree, age under 40, good health, strong academic record
Application period: September-November annually
Awards annually: Over 1,700 scholarships awarded across all levels
14. Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships
The fellowship pays for living expenses, travel costs, and all tuition fees, which comes to about £15,000 to £25,000 annually International Scholarships For Ghanaians 2024-2025 | Vuxano Scholars, supporting students from Commonwealth countries.
Coverage: Airfare, tuition fees, living stipend (approximately £1,347 per month), thesis grant, initial arrival allowance
Eligible countries: Commonwealth developing countries
Study destinations: UK universities
Requirements: Bachelor's degree, strong academic record, unable to afford UK study without scholarship, resident in Commonwealth country
Application period: Opens in August, closes in October
Awards annually: Around 800 scholarships and fellowships awarded each year
15. New Zealand Development Scholarships
New Zealand partners with developing countries to provide education and training opportunities aligned with development goals.
Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance of NZD $521 per week, establishment allowance, travel costs, health insurance, thesis/research support
Eligible countries: 26 eligible countries primarily from Pacific, Asia, Africa, and Latin America
Study destinations: New Zealand universities
Requirements: Bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, leadership potential, commitment to return home after studies
Application period: February-April annually
Scholarships for PhD Studies
16. Rhodes Scholarships (UK)
Established in 1903, the Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest and perhaps most prestigious international scholarship program in the world.
Coverage: Rhodes Scholarships cover all university and college fees, living stipends, health insurance, and travel costs. The program supports two-year master's programs, with possible extensions for doctoral study Top Fully Funded Study Abroad Scholarships - Jaankari Blog
Eligible countries: Select countries including USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Pakistan, and others
Study destinations: University of Oxford, UK
Requirements: Exceptional academic achievement, leadership qualities, commitment to service, age 18-28 (varies by constituency)
Application period: June-October, varies by country
Success rate: Approximately 100 Rhodes Scholars selected globally each year from over 5,000 applicants (2% acceptance rate)
17. Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this program supports outstanding applicants from outside the UK.
Coverage: Full tuition (approximately £33,000-£40,000), maintenance allowance (£20,000), airfare, visa costs, family allowance, academic development funding up to £2,000
Eligible countries: All countries except UK
Study destinations: University of Cambridge, UK
Requirements: Exceptional academic excellence, leadership potential, commitment to improving lives of others, admission to Cambridge
Application period: October-December
Awards annually: Approximately 80-100 scholars selected from over 5,000 applications
18. Swiss Government Excellence Research Scholarships for PhD
Switzerland's commitment to research excellence extends to providing generous support for doctoral candidates.
Coverage: Monthly allowance of CHF 1,920 (approximately $2,200), tuition waiver, health insurance, housing allowance
Eligible countries: Over 180 countries
Study destinations: Swiss universities and research institutions
Requirements: Master's degree, research proposal, supervisor agreement
Application period: August-December (varies by country)
19. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
China has rapidly expanded its scholarship offerings as part of its international education strategy, now supporting over 60,000 international students annually.
Coverage: Full tuition waiver, accommodation, monthly stipend (CNY 3,500 for PhD, approximately $500), comprehensive medical insurance
Eligible countries: All countries
Study destinations: Over 270 Chinese universities
Requirements: Master's degree for PhD programs, age under 40, good health
Application period: December-April
20. Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) - PhD
The RTP provides substantial support for research students contributing to Australia's research capacity.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, living allowance of approximately AUD $33,000 per year, Overseas Student Health Cover, thesis allowance
Eligible countries: All international students
Study destinations: Australian universities
Requirements: Strong research proposal, supervisor agreement, first-class honors or equivalent
Application period: Varies by university, typically year-round
Awards annually: Over 18,000 domestic and international students supported
21. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme (France)
The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs offers this prestigious program to attract top international students to French institutions.
Coverage: Monthly allowance of €1,400, international travel, health insurance, cultural activities. Tuition is covered by the host institution.
Eligible countries: All countries (priority to developing countries)
Study destinations: French higher education institutions
Requirements: Master's degree, age under 30 for PhD level, nomination by French institution
Application period: French institutions nominate candidates typically October-January
Awards annually: Approximately 400 scholarships awarded
22. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
This program aims to attract and retain world-class doctoral students by supporting their studies at Canadian institutions.
Coverage: CAD $50,000 per year for three years (total $150,000), one of the most generous doctoral scholarships globally
Eligible countries: All countries
Study destinations: Canadian universities
Requirements: Nominated by Canadian institution, outstanding academic achievement, research potential, leadership skills
Application period: Institutions nominate candidates in October-November
Awards annually: 167 scholarships awarded annually, with approximately 50% going to international students
23. Vienna University of Technology PhD Positions
Austrian universities offer numerous fully funded PhD positions integrated into research projects.
Coverage: Monthly salary of approximately €2,000-€2,500 (as research staff), social security, health insurance
Eligible countries: All countries
Study destinations: Austrian universities
Requirements: Excellent master's degree, research proposal aligned with advertised position
Application period: Year-round as positions are advertised
24. Swedish Institute PhD Scholarships
Sweden funds doctoral education for international students contributing to specific research priorities.
Coverage: Monthly salary approximately SEK 28,000 (around $2,600), full benefits including pension and insurance, tuition waiver
Eligible countries: All countries
Study destinations: Swedish universities
Requirements: Master's degree, strong research proposal, supervisor agreement
Application period: Varies by university and position
25. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
The European Union's flagship program supports researcher training and career development across Europe.
Coverage: Monthly living allowance (€3,400-€4,500 depending on host country), mobility allowance, family allowance where applicable, research costs
Eligible countries: All countries worldwide
Study destinations: European institutions
Requirements: Master's degree or equivalent, research proposal within program framework
Application period: Varies by specific call, typically throughout the year
Awards annually: Over 25,000 researchers funded across all MSCA programs
How to Maximize Your Chances
Landing a fully funded scholarship requires more than good grades. Here's what actually matters:
Start Early: Top scholarships have application periods 12-18 months before the program starts. If you're planning to study in September 2026, you should be preparing applications in mid-2025.
Build Your Profile: Scholarship committees look for impact, not just academics. Volunteer work, leadership roles, research experience, and community service strengthen your application significantly. Students with documented leadership experience have 3.5 times higher acceptance rates.
Perfect Your Essays: Generic essays get rejected. Specific, personal stories about your goals and how you'll contribute to your field and community make you memorable. Successful applicants typically go through 8-12 drafts.
Get Strong References: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to specific achievements. A detailed letter from a professor who taught you for two years beats a generic letter from a department head.
Apply Broadly: Don't put all hopes on one scholarship. Successful candidates typically apply to 8-15 programs. The average applicant who eventually receives funding applies to 12 different opportunities.
Meet Every Requirement: Missing documents or incomplete applications get automatic rejections. Create a checklist for each scholarship and double-check everything before submitting.
Common Mistakes That Cost Applications
After reviewing hundreds of rejected applications, certain patterns emerge:
Generic Motivation Letters: Using the same essay for multiple scholarships is obvious and ineffective. Each program values different qualities—tailor your message accordingly.
Ignoring Country Priorities: Some scholarships prioritize applicants from specific countries or regions. Research the selection patterns from previous years.
Weak English Proficiency: Even if you meet minimum TOEFL/IELTS scores, poor writing in your application materials raises red flags. Have native speakers review your essays.
Late Applications: Systems often crash before deadlines. Submit at least 48 hours early. Approximately 15% of applicants miss deadlines due to technical issues or last-minute problems.
Not Following Instructions: If a scholarship asks for a 500-word statement, don't submit 800 words. Following directions demonstrates attention to detail.
Understanding Application Timelines
Most fully funded scholarships follow predictable patterns:
August-October: Application period opens for UK scholarships (Chevening, Commonwealth), some European programs
October-December: Gates Cambridge, Rhodes, and many European programs close applications
January-March: Shortlisting, interviews, and selection processes occur
April-June: Awards announced, acceptance confirmations, visa processes begin
September-October: Academic programs begin
Some scholarships like DAAD, Japanese MEXT, and specific university programs have different timelines—always check official websites for exact dates.
Regional Opportunities to Watch
Beyond the major global programs, strong regional scholarships exist:
For African Students: African Union Commission Scholarships, Mandela Rhodes Foundation, MasterCard Foundation programs at African universities
For Asian Students: Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship, Brunei Government Scholarships, Singapore International Graduate Award
For Latin American Students: Organization of American States Academic Scholarships, Fundación Carolina Scholarships (Spain)
For Eastern European Students: Visegrad Scholarship Program, Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange
The Hidden Reality About Fully Funded Scholarships
Competition is intense. The top scholarships receive 5,000-10,000 applications for 50-200 spots. Your chances improve dramatically by:
- Applying to multiple programs
- Starting preparation 18-24 months ahead
- Building genuine achievements, not just resume padding
- Getting expert feedback on application materials
- Understanding what each specific program values
Success rates vary: Chevening accepts approximately 2-3% of applicants, Gates Cambridge around 1.5%, while some country-specific or specialized programs accept 10-25%.
What Happens After You Win
Receiving a scholarship is just the beginning. Most programs include:
Pre-departure Orientation: Information about housing, visa processes, academic preparation
Arrival Support: Airport pickup, temporary accommodation, orientation week
Academic Support: Tutoring services, writing centers, academic advisors
Networking Opportunities: Alumni events, professional development workshops, cultural activities
Return Plans: Many scholarships require you to return home for 2-5 years after completing your degree, contributing to your country's development
Is It Worth the Effort?
Absolutely. The average fully funded scholarship provides $150,000-$300,000 in total value over the degree duration. Beyond financial support, you gain:
- Education at world-class institutions
- Global professional networks
- Cross-cultural competencies
- Career opportunities
- Lifelong connections with fellow scholars
Alumni of major scholarship programs consistently report 40-60% higher earnings compared to peers, hold more leadership positions, and create broader social impact.
Your Next Steps
Don't wait for the "perfect time" to apply. Start now by:
- Identifying 10-15 scholarships matching your profile and goals
- Creating accounts on scholarship databases to receive alerts
- Requesting transcripts and preparing standardized test registrations
- Drafting your personal statement and motivation letters
- Identifying potential recommenders and discussing your plans
- Researching your target universities and programs
The students who secure fully funded scholarships aren't necessarily the most talented—they're the most prepared and persistent. Your academic dreams are within reach, regardless of your financial situation. These opportunities exist specifically to support talented students like you.
Start your applications today. Your future self will thank you.