Embarking on an international degree is exhilarating—but the price tag often leads many to rack up thousands in student loans. If you’re dreaming of studying abroad without drowning in debt, fully funded scholarships can turn that dream into reality. In this guide, you’ll discover the Top 5 scholarships that cover both tuition and living expenses, how to qualify, and actionable tips to boost your application.
Why Choose Fully Funded Scholarships?
- Live & Learn Worry‑Free
You focus on classes and cultural immersion—not budgeting every pound or euro. - Build Global Networks
Fully funded awards connect you with cohorts of future leaders worldwide. - Launch a Debt‑Free Career
Graduate without loan burdens and invest in your first steps—internships, research, or entrepreneurship.
What Makes a Scholarship “Fully Funded”?
A fully funded scholarship typically includes:
- Tuition & Fees: All course fees paid directly to your host university
- Living Stipend: Monthly allowance for accommodation, meals, travel, and personal expenses
- Travel Support: Economy‑class flights to and from your study destination
- Additional Perks: Health insurance, visa fees, research grants, and sometimes family support
How to Maximize Your Chances
- Academic Excellence
Maintain a strong GPA and showcase relevant research or leadership roles. - Clear Career Vision
Articulate how your studies abroad will drive impact in your home country. - Strong Recommendations
Secure references from professors or supervisors who know you well. - Tailored Essays
Address each scholarship’s mission—demonstrate alignment with leadership, development, or innovation. - Early Preparation
Research deadlines (often 8–12 months before program start) and gather transcripts, test scores, and language certificates in advance.
Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
Below are the Top 5 scholarships that guarantee tuition and living coverage. Clicking each scholarship name takes you to the official website for up‑to‑date details and application links.
1. Chevening Scholarship (UK)
Coverage
- Full tuition fees at any UK university
- Monthly living stipend for accommodation and expenses
- Travel costs (arrival & departure allowances)
- Visa application fee and NHS health surcharge
Key Highlights
- Awarded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
- One‑year master’s programs across any discipline
- Targets future leaders committed to positive change
Eligibility
- A minimum of two years’ work experience
- Bachelor’s degree equivalent to a UK 2:1
- Strong leadership potential and career plan
Application Window
- Opens August | Closes November (each year)
Chevening Scholars join a global network, benefit from leadership events, and receive an arrival top‑up to settle in the UK. (Chevening, Chevening)
2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Coverage
- Tuition fees (public universities in Germany are generally tuition‑free at undergrad & master’s level)
- Monthly stipend (~€861) for living expenses, health insurance, and travel subsidy
- Travel allowance for arrival and departure
Key Highlights
- Open to graduates, postgraduates, and doctoral candidates
- Over 100 disciplines supported, including STEM, social sciences, and development studies
- Regional programmes like EPOS and Helmut‑Schmidt for professionals
Eligibility
- Bachelor’s degree (not older than six years for master’s programmes)
- Language proficiency in English (IELTS 6.0+) or German (TestDaF B2/C1)
- Two years of professional experience for development‑related courses
Application Window
- Varies by programme (typically Oct–Dec for next academic year)
The DAAD network offers local offices in 60+ countries to guide applicants through requirements. (Yocket Study Abroad, DAAD)
3. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Scholarships (EU)
Coverage
- Full participation costs (tuition, teaching, exams)
- Monthly living allowance (€1,000–€1,400) depending on consortium and duration
- Travel & installation grants for EU/non‑EU students
- Health insurance for 1–2 years
Key Highlights
- Two‑year master’s courses run by consortia of 2+ universities across Europe
- Joint, double, or multiple degrees upon graduation
- Focuses on global & cultural exchange
Eligibility
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field
- Excellent academic record and English language proficiency
- Mobility requirement: study in at least two countries
Application Window
- Opens October–November (annual)
Erasmus Mundus fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and global employability. (Erasmus Mundus, Erasmus+)
4. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
Coverage
- Full University composition & college fees at Cambridge
- Maintenance allowance (~£20,000/year) for living costs
- One economy‑class airfare at start & end of study
- Hardship and maternity/paternity funding options
Key Highlights
- Open to citizens outside the UK for postgraduate study (PhD, MLitt, one‑year postgraduate courses)
- Focus on “intellectual ability, leadership capacity, and desire to contribute to society”
- 70–90 scholars selected annually
Eligibility
- Admission to a full‑time degree at Cambridge
- Outstanding academic record & leadership achievements
- Strong alignment with Gates Cambridge mission
Application Window
- University application deadlines vary by department (Dec–Jan)
Gates Cambridge Scholars become part of a vibrant leadership community at Cambridge. (Gates Cambridge –)
5. Knight‐Hennessy Scholars (USA)
Coverage
- Full tuition & associated fees at Stanford University
- Annual living stipend for room, board, books, and personal expenses
- Travel stipend for one round trip per year
- Relocation & health insurance allowances
Key Highlights
- Graduate‑level scholarship across any Stanford master’s or PhD programme
- Leadership development workshops, mentorship, and Global Impact Fund grants
- Up to 100 scholars selected each year
Eligibility
- Admission to a full‑time Stanford graduate programme (e.g., MD, MBA, PhD)
- Bachelor’s degree earned January 2019 or later
- Demonstrated leadership, civic commitment, and academic excellence
Application Window
- Stanford programme deadlines vary; Knight‑Hennessy application opens Aug–Oct
Knight‑Hennessy fosters interdisciplinary leadership geared toward global challenges. (knight-hennessy.stanford.edu, Wikipedia)
Top 5 Scholarships at a Glance
| Scholarship | Tuition & Fees Covered? | Monthly Living Stipend | Travel Support | Duration | Eligible Levels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening | ✔︎ | £1,017–£1,281 (London/Else) (Chevening) | Arrival & departure grants (Chevening) | 1 year (Master’s) | Master’s |
| DAAD (e.g., Postgrad) | ✔︎ (most public Unis) | €861/month (Yocket Study Abroad) | Flat-rate travel subsidy | 10–24 months | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD |
| Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters | ✔︎ | €1,000–€1,400/month (Erasmus Mundus) | Variable travel & install | 1–2 years | Master’s |
| Gates Cambridge | ✔︎ | ~£20,000/year (Gates Cambridge –) | Economy airfare (in/out) | 1–4 years | Postgrad (PhD, MLitt) |
| Knight‑Hennessy | ✔︎ | Generous annual stipend (knight-hennessy.stanford.edu) | One annual round‑trip | Up to 3 years | Graduate (Master’s, PhD) |
Actionable Insights: Crafting a Winning Application
- Start Early
Map out each scholarship’s timeline at least 12 months in advance. - Tailor Your Essays
Address the mission and selection criteria of each award. Use concrete examples of leadership, community impact, and innovation. - Gather Stellar References
Provide referees with your CV, personal statement, and key achievements to help them write detailed letters. - Prepare for Interviews
Practice articulating your career vision, why you chose the host country, and how you’ll give back post‑graduation. - Leverage Alumni Networks
Connect with former scholars on LinkedIn for first‑hand tips and mentorship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply to multiple fully funded scholarships at once?
Yes. Applying to several awards increases your chances, but tailor each application to the specific scholarship’s goals and criteria.
Q2: Are test scores (GRE/GMAT, IELTS/TOEFL) mandatory?
Most graduate programmes require English proficiency tests. GRE/GMAT depends on the university and programme (e.g., MBA or some STEM fields).
Q3: What if I have a gap year or less work experience than required?
Highlight leadership roles in volunteering, research projects, or community initiatives. Some scholarships consider exceptional cases.
Q4: Do these scholarships reimburse expenses or pay providers directly?
Typically, tuition fees and travel costs go directly to universities or airlines. Living stipends are paid monthly or as lump sums to scholars.
Q5: How soon after applying will I hear back?
Timelines vary—most announce finalists 5–8 months after application deadlines. Plan your finances and visa arrangements accordingly.
Studying abroad debt‑free is within reach when you target the right fully funded scholarships. With clear planning, compelling applications, and a focus on leadership and impact, you can join the next cohort of global scholars—without shouldering student loans.
Ready to launch your journey? Explore each scholarship’s official site, note key deadlines, and get started today!
