Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, but the cost of international education often presents a barrier. Fortunately, many governments, universities, and organizations offer scholarships to support international students. Here's a country-by-country breakdown of some of the best scholarships in the world.
United States
Top Scholarships
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
Covers tuition, airfare, living stipend, and health insurance for master’s and PhD studies.
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship
For mid-career professionals; offers non-degree academic study and related professional experience.
AAUW International Fellowships (for women)
For female international students pursuing full-time graduate or postgraduate studies in the U.S.
United Kingdom
Top Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
Fully funded master’s program for outstanding emerging leaders from around the world.
Commonwealth Scholarships
For students from developing Commonwealth countries, covering tuition, airfare, and living allowance.
Rhodes Scholarship (Oxford University)
One of the oldest and most prestigious fully funded scholarships for postgraduate studies.
Canada
Top Scholarships
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
For doctoral students with leadership skills and high academic achievement.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
Full tuition, books, and residence support for undergraduate students.
IDRC Research Awards
For students from developing countries pursuing master’s or doctoral studies.
Australia
Top Scholarships
Australia Awards Scholarships
Long-term development awards administered by the Australian government.
Research Training Program (RTP)
Provides block grants to support both domestic and international students undertaking research doctorates and master’s degrees.
Destination Australia Scholarships
For students who want to study in regional Australia.
Germany
Top Scholarships
DAAD Scholarships
Wide range of scholarships for international students, particularly at the graduate level.
Deutschlandstipendium
Based on merit and offered by universities in partnership with private sponsors.
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships
For students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degrees in Germany.
New Zealand
Top Scholarships
New Zealand Government Scholarships
Covers full tuition fees, living allowance, travel, insurance, and establishment allowance.
University of Otago International Research Master's Scholarships
University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship
Singapore
Top Scholarships
Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
For international students pursuing a PhD in science and engineering.
ASEAN Scholarships
For students from ASEAN countries to study at secondary and pre-university levels in Singapore.
European Union (Other Countries)
Top Scholarships
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD)
Fully funded scholarships for master’s degrees involving study in multiple European countries.
Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals
Fully funded scholarships for master’s studies in Sweden.
ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)
Covers full study and living expenses.
International / Global Scholarships
Top Scholarships
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
For students from developing countries to study development-related fields.
Rotary Foundation Global Scholarship Grants
For graduate-level coursework or research in one of Rotary’s six areas of focus.
UNESCO Fellowships
For education, science, and cultural projects.
Final Thoughts
Applying for scholarships takes time and effort, but the rewards can be life-changing. Here’s how to maximize your chances:
Start early: Many scholarships have deadlines 6–12 months before the start of the program.
Tailor your application: Write compelling personal statements and get strong references.
Meet all requirements: Some scholarships are merit-based, others need proof of financial need or community work.
Don’t ignore smaller awards: They add up and are often less competitive.
FAQs
Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes! You can and should apply for as many as you qualify for, unless the terms state otherwise.
What documents are typically required?
Academic transcripts
Letters of recommendation
Personal statement or essay
Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
Passport and identification documents
Do I need to be admitted before applying for a scholarship?
Depends on the scholarship. Some require proof of admission; others allow you to apply in parallel.
Are there scholarships for undergraduate students?
Yes. While many top scholarships are for graduate-level study, several countries offer full or partial funding for undergraduates (e.g., Lester B. Pearson, Holland Scholarship).
Do I need to repay scholarships?
No. Scholarships are financial awards—not loans—so they typically do not need to be repaid.
