Pursuing higher education abroad is undoubtedly an exciting decision to make. Over the years, students have become increasingly focused on prioritising their higher education plans aspiring for leading global study destinations. However, the soaring costs associated with studying abroad often become a significant barrier for many aspirants.
In such a scenario, obtaining a scholarship can indeed be a great financial support and when that scholarship is fully funded, it becomes the cherry on top. While there are ample scholarship options available for international students, a fully funded scholarship eases the financial burden to a great extent, allowing students to focus wholeheartedly on their academics.
In this latest article, we will discuss some of the most sought-after fully funded study abroad scholarships available for students planning to study in top countries abroad. So, without any further delay, let’s begin.
Popular Fully Funded Government Scholarships for International Students
1. Fulbright Scholarships, US
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Level of Study: Masters and Ph.D.
- Application Deadline: Varies from country to country but applications for 2025 -2026 intakes are open for most countries at present.
- Eligibility & Other Details
- The Fulbright Program provides numerous scholarships that are sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.
- Eligibility criteria vary by country but generally require academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to cross-cultural engagement.
- In addition to covering the entire tuition fee, Fulbright scholarships also include a J-1 Visa Sponsorship, Living Stipend, Health Insurance, and Round-Trip Airfare.
2. Chevening Scholarships, UK
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Level of Study: Masters
- Application Deadline: Applications for 2025-26 Intakes are expected to open soon and the deadline is usually around November.
- Eligibility & Other Details
- The Chevening Scholarship is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. It aims to Empower Future Leaders, Influencers, and Decision-Makers from around the world.
- Scholarship applicants must exhibit academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to contributing to their home countries' development. It also provides scholarships for Indian students.
- In addition to covering tuition fees, this fully funded scholarship also covers Living Expenses and Travel Costs.
- That’s not all, Chevening scholarships also provide access to exclusive networking events and professional development opportunities through internships and volunteering.
3. Australia Awards Scholarships, Australia
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Level of Study: Bachelors and Masters
- Application Deadline: Varies for different countries but it is open for 2025 intake applications.
- Eligibility & Other Details
- The Australia Awards Scholarships are funded by the Australian Government, and they aim to promote knowledge and education links.
- These scholarships are awarded to individuals with exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and a commitment to contributing to their home countries' development as students are expected to go back to their country after completing their degree.
- In addition to covering tuition fees, Australia Awards Scholarships also provide a Living Allowance, Establishment Allowance, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and Travel Expenses.
4. Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships, New Zealand
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Level of Study: Bachelors and Masters
- Application Deadline: The application portal is expected to open in February and the deadline is yet to be announced.
- Eligibility & Other Details
- The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships, administered by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and Education New Zealand (ENZ) are open for individuals from eligible countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
- These scholarships cover Tuition Fees, Living Expenses, Travel Costs, and Provide Additional Support for Establishment and Course-Related Costs.
- This scholarship is highly competitive in nature and has rigid eligibility criteria, so applicants should demonstrate their academic and leadership potential impressively.
5. DAAD Scholarships Germany
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Level of Study: Masters and Ph.D.
- Application Deadline: Varies as per University & Program Deadlines in Germany.
- Eligibility & Other Details
- The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a wide range of scholarships to support international students and researchers interested in studying or conducting research in Germany. These scholarships cater to various fields of study and academic levels like Masters, and Ph.D.
- Eligibility criteria include applicants to be enrolled for a full-time program at a State or State-recognized German University. Apart from this, academic excellence and 2 years of work experience are required.
- In addition to covering tuition fees, DAAD scholarships provide a Monthly Stipend, Travel Allowance, Health Insurance, and Other Benefits.
These were the top fully funded scholarship options for international students planning to study at the top study destinations like the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand & Germany. If you are now wondering how to get scholarships to study abroad, then it brings us to the next part of this article.
Effective Tips to Make Your Scholarship Application Stand Out
The above-mentioned scholarships are highly competitive in nature and limited in numbers. Since there are hundreds and thousands of applications for them each year, applicants must be very diligent during the application process. Follow the given tips to make your scholarship application stand out among the crowd.
- Start early by researching scholarship opportunities and preparing your application materials well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
- Highlight your strengths, experiences, and achievements in all your application materials like resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
- Clearly express how receiving the scholarship will enable you to make a positive impact in your field of study, community, and home country.
- Take feedback from mentors and refine your application to ensure they are compelling and polished.
- Always keep an eye on the application portal and apply as soon as you can as it brings you one step closer to success.
On a concluding note, getting a fully funded scholarship can contribute to positive change in not only your life but also your communities and beyond. As you go through the scholarship application process, remember to stay focused and authentic.
As already mentioned above, if you are not able to get any of these government-specific scholarships due to their competitive nature, you can check for university-specific scholarships as most universities provide numerous scholarships for international students. For further guidance and support on your study abroad journey to securing fully funded scholarships as well as for university applications, connect with our team of Experts at KC Overseas Education.
Your future awaits in a foreign land, so embrace it with confidence, determination & KC’s end-to-end support!