Securing a fully funded master’s program in Europe can greatly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. Several scholarships and funding options are available that cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes even travel costs. Here’s a guide to some of the prominent fully funded master’s programs and scholarships in Europe:
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs)
- Overview: Offers scholarships for students pursuing joint master’s degrees provided by multiple universities across Europe.
- Eligibility: Open to students from non-EU countries enrolling in participating EMJMD programs.
- Amount: Covers tuition fees, travel, subsistence, and installation costs.
- Application: Apply directly to the Erasmus Mundus joint master’s programs you are interested in.
2. Erasmus+ Program
- Overview: Provides grants for students participating in exchange programs or short-term studies in Europe.
- Eligibility: For students from EU and non-EU countries enrolled in participating institutions.
- Amount: Includes monthly allowances, travel subsidies, and support for additional costs.
- Application: Apply through your home institution or the participating European institution.
3. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
- Overview: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a variety of fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing master’s degrees in Germany.
- Eligibility: Open to international students from various countries.
- Amount: Includes monthly stipends, travel allowances, and insurance.
- Application: Apply through DAAD’s scholarship portal or directly through the German university.
4. Netherlands Fellowship Programmes (NFP)
- Overview: Provides fully funded scholarships for students from developing countries to study in the Netherlands, including master’s programs.
- Eligibility: For students from eligible countries pursuing short courses or master’s programs in the Netherlands.
- Amount: Covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.
- Application: Apply through Nuffic or participating Dutch universities.
5. Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs Orange Knowledge Programme
- Overview: Offers fully funded scholarships for professionals from developing countries to study in the Netherlands.
- Eligibility: Open to international students from eligible countries pursuing master’s programs.
- Amount: Covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.
- Application: Apply through Nuffic or participating Dutch universities.
6. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
- Overview: Funded by the UK government, Chevening Scholarships are fully funded for students from around the world to pursue master’s programs in the UK.
- Eligibility: Open to international students with leadership potential and strong academic records.
- Amount: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and other costs.
- Application: Apply through the Chevening website or the British embassy in your home country.
7. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
- Overview: Provides fully funded scholarships for foreign scholars and researchers, including master’s students, to study in Switzerland.
- Eligibility: Open to international students from various countries pursuing master’s degrees.
- Amount: Includes a monthly allowance, health insurance, and travel expenses.
- Application: Apply through the Swiss Federal Commission for Scholarships (FCS) or the Swiss embassy in your home country.
8. Gates Cambridge Scholarships
- Overview: Though based at the University of Cambridge, this scholarship is available to international students from various countries, including those pursuing master’s degrees.
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing a full-time master’s or PhD at the University of Cambridge.
- Amount: Covers full tuition, living expenses, and additional funding for academic development.
- Application: Apply directly to the University of Cambridge.
9. The Rotary Foundation Global Grants
- Overview: Provides fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing master’s degrees related to Rotary’s areas of focus.
- Eligibility: Open to students pursuing master’s degrees in fields aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus.
- Amount: Varies; covers tuition, travel, and living expenses.
- Application: Apply through Rotary clubs and the Rotary Foundation.
10. The Fulbright Program
- Overview: Although primarily for U.S. students, the Fulbright Program supports international students studying in Europe.
- Eligibility: Open to students from eligible countries pursuing master’s programs in Europe.
- Amount: Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel.
- Application: Apply through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. embassies.
11. The Soros Fellowship for New Americans
- Overview: Provides funding for graduate study for immigrants and children of immigrants in the U.S., with potential opportunities for European study.
- Eligibility: Open to international students with strong academic and professional achievements.
- Amount: Covers full tuition and additional costs.
- Application: Apply through the Soros Foundation.
12. University-Specific Scholarships
Many European universities offer fully funded scholarships for their master’s programs. Examples include:
- University of Oxford: Offers various scholarships, including the Oxford University Scholarships, for international students pursuing postgraduate degrees.
- University of Amsterdam: Provides fully funded scholarships such as the Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship.
- University of Edinburgh: Offers fully funded scholarships such as the Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships for postgraduate students.
Application Tips
- Research Thoroughly: Investigate scholarship opportunities specific to your chosen country and program of study.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather required documents such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
- Follow Deadlines: Ensure you meet all application deadlines and submit complete and accurate information.
- Seek Guidance: Contact scholarship providers or educational institutions for specific details and assistance.
For the most accurate and current information, visit the official websites of the scholarship providers or contact their offices directly.