BetterAdminStudying in Europe is a dream for many, but high tuition and living costs can make it seem out of reach. Fortunately, fully funded scholarships in Europe for international students can cover tuition, accommodation, and even travel expenses—making world-class education accessible and affordable.
Whether you’re from Nigeria, India, the USA, or any other part of the world, this guide will help you find the right scholarship program to kickstart your journey.
Why Study in Europe?
Europe is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Here’s why it remains a top destination for international students:
- High-quality education and globally recognized degrees
- Multicultural environment with students from across the globe
- Courses taught in English across many countries
- Post-study work opportunities in many European nations
- Affordable living costs in several cities
SEE ALSO How to Get a Scholarship to Study in the USA for International Students?
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for International Students
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD)
Eligibility: Open to students worldwide
Level: Master’s degree
Benefits:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend (around €1,000)
- Travel and installation allowance
- Insurance coverage
Application Deadline: Varies by program (usually between October and January)
2. DAAD Scholarships in Germany
Eligibility: Students from developing and newly industrialized countries
Level: Master’s and PhD
Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly allowance (€861 for graduates, €1,200 for doctoral candidates)
- Travel allowance
- Health insurance
Application Deadline: Typically in October
3. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Eligibility: International students from select countries including Nigeria, India, and others
Level: Master’s degree
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees
- Living expenses (€1,000/month)
- Insurance and travel grants
Application Deadline: February annually
4. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
Eligibility: Citizens of Chevening-eligible countries
Level: One-year Master’s program
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Travel costs to and from the UK
- Arrival and departure allowance
Application Deadline: November
5. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)
Eligibility: Excellent academic records
Level: Master’s
Benefits:
- Tuition fee waiver
- Living costs (CHF 12,000 per semester)
Application Deadline: December 15th (varies slightly each year)
6. Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships
Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA students
Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD
Benefits:
- Full tuition waiver
- €10,000 stipend
Application Deadline: March annually
Countries in Europe Offering Tuition-Free Education
Some European countries offer tuition-free or low-cost education, even for international students. These include:
- Germany: Most public universities offer tuition-free education for both EU and non-EU students.
- Norway: No tuition fees for public universities; students only pay a small semester fee.
- Finland: Offers scholarship opportunities to non-EU students.
- Austria and Czech Republic: Low or no tuition fees depending on the language of instruction and nationality.
Note: While tuition may be free, students still need to cover living expenses, so applying for fully funded scholarships is highly recommended.
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe
Step-by-Step Guide
- Research and shortlist scholarships based on your program and eligibility.
- Prepare necessary documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Recommendation letters
- Proof of language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Check deadlines and mark them on your calendar.
- Apply through official websites and never through third-party agents.
- Prepare for interviews, if applicable.
Pro Tips
- Start your preparation at least 6–12 months in advance.
- Tailor your SOP and CV to each program.
- Reach out to scholarship alumni for advice.
Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe: Opportunities by Country
Germany
- DAAD Scholarships
- Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships
- Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships
Netherlands
- Holland Scholarshipi w
- Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme
- Leiden University Excellence Scholarship
France
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
- Campus France Scholarships
Norway
- Quota Scheme (now replaced with individual scholarships by institutions)
Hungary
- Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
Belgium
- VLIR-UOS Training and Masters Scholarships
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get a fully funded scholarship in Europe without IELTS?
Yes. Some universities accept alternatives like TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, or even a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous institution.
2. Are there age limits for these scholarships?
Some scholarships have age limits (e.g., under 35 for Master’s), while others focus more on academic and professional merit.
3. How competitive are fully funded scholarships in Europe?
Very competitive. Thousands apply, so submitting a strong, personalized application is crucial.
4. Can I work while studying?
Yes, most European countries allow part-time work for international students (usually up to 20 hours per week).
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Securing one of the many fully funded scholarships in Europe for international students can change your life. It’s not just about studying for free—it’s about gaining global exposure, building a network, and unlocking future opportunities.
Start your application journey today. Bookmark this post, research scholarships actively, and set monthly goals. Your European education dream is closer than you think!
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BetterAdmin
Francis Abel
