Top 20 Scholarships for International Students Around the World

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Scholarships for International Students Around the world

Today, one should not give up on their ambition of studying abroad solely due to a lack of financial resources. This is the very reason scholarship programmes exist. After all, such programmes can open up a huge window of profitable academic and employment options for those who do not have a solid financial foundation. Aside from scholarship initiatives, college loans are also available for students. So, it should be emphasised that these loans must be repaid to the providers over time.

Here is a list of the top 20 scholarships available for students from all over the world who want to study in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Switzerland, Australia, Belgium, Italy or other notable nations.

List of Scholarships for International Students Around the World

One can pursue their ambition of shaping their career paths in the domains of engineering, social sciences, humanities, etc., and that too, from the greatest institutes in the world. But, aside from scholarship initiatives, college loans are also available for students. Therefore, it should be emphasised that these loans must be repaid to the providers over time. However, for now, we will learn about the top scholarships in the world that can aid in your cost of living as a student abroad.

World Bank Scholarships Program (Worldwide)

The World Bank Scholarship scheme has a reputation for providing competitive scholarships for twenty-six relevant master’s degree programmes at prestigious universities across Europe, the United States, Japan, and Africa. Therefore, candidates who choose the aforementioned scholarship programme can be confident that the erudition amount will be fully covered.

Scholarship World Bank Scholarships Program
Degree Level Master’s or PhD
Participating Program41 programs across 24 universities in the US, Europe, Oceania, and Japan
Scholarships Benefits Full Tuition
Monthly living stipend
Round-trip airfare
Health insurance
Travel Allowance
Application Open Jan to Feb 2026
Application DeadlineMarch to May 2026

Also Read: List of Scholarship Universities in the USA: Dates, Fees,

Mastercard Foundation Scholarships (France)

This scholarship programme in France is fractionated into master’s degrees and summer schools. Since its inception, the Mastercard Foundation has been solely focused on aiding roughly 110 promising students from African communities with their education.

Scholarship Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Eligible Countries Nationals of Sub-Saharan African Countries ( dual citizenship with the EU/EEA disqualifies)
Degree Level Master’s Degree
Language of Instruction English, French, or bilingual
Start DateAugust 2025
Application Open October 2025
Application Deadline4th January 2026

University of Alberta International Distinction Scholarship (Canada)

This Canada-based scholarship programme was devised and established to help promising first-year undergrads with their funds. Additionally, students (carrying visa permits) intending to apply for the said programme can expect to receive a compensation of CAD120,000 (INR 73,00,000) (payable over 4 years) through this programme.

Scholarship Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Eligible Countries Nationals of Sub-Saharan African Countries ( dual citizenship with the EU/EEA disqualifies)
Degree Level Master’s Degree
Language of Instruction English, French, or bilingual
Start DateAugust 2025
Application Open October 2025
Application Deadline4th January 2026

Italian Government Scholarships (Italy)

This programme opens up an enormous window of lucrative opportunities for candidates who wish to further their education in Italy. With its help, candidates can apply for a myriad of lucrative programmes from the top academia in Italy. Individuals intending to opt for the said programme can rest assured as the erudition amount will be fully funded by the conducting body.

Scholarship Name Italian Government Scholarships (Italy)
Eligible DegreeBachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
Eligible Countries Argentina, Egypt, India, Kenya, Morocco, etc.
Application Deadline 16 May 2025

Also Read: 12 Popular Scholarships for USA September Intake 2025

Turkey Government’s Scholarships Program (Turkey)

Turkey is renowned for providing lucrative scholarships to international students. Thus, candidates intending to pursue their higher education from the top academia in Turkey are required to opt for the said programme. Successful candidates can expect the fee for their desired course to be covered by the institute.

Scholarship Name Turkey Government’s Scholarships Program (Turkey)
Eligible DegreeBachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
Application Open 10 January 2026
Application Close 20 February 2026
Language Perspiration Turkish language course, regardless of the program language

Belgian Government Master Mind Scholarships (Belgium)

This programme is notable for covering most of the financial requirements of international students, including student lodging costs, insurance and living expenses. It is an excellent option for those who wish for a master’s program in Belgium.

Scholarship Name Belgian Government Master Mind Scholarships (Belgium)
Administered By Flemish Ministry of Education and Training (through participating Flemish institutions)
Scholarship value EUR 10,020
Application Open Mid January
Application Close Last April

Scuola Normale Superiore Di Pisa Scholarships (Italy)

Candidates intending to pursue their higher education in Italy in subjects related to art, literature, philosophy, mathematics, and sciences. Those who wish to further their education in the said subjects are encouraged to apply for the said programme. This programme covers most of the monetary requirements of students.

Scholarship Name Scuola Normale Superiore Di Pisa Scholarships (Italy)
Number of Scholarships75 position
Application Open April 2025
Application Close May 2025

University of Lausanne Summer School Program (Switzerland)

Candidates with a background in biological or medical studies are eligible to apply for an 8-week scholarship and undergraduate research course in Switzerland. This programme is known for hosting around 15 promising candidates from all over the world. This programme seeks to attract promising young candidates for a once-in-a-lifetime research experience.

Scholarship Name University of Lausanne Summer School Program (Switzerland)
Stipend CHF 1,500 to cover additional expenses
Application Deadline 31 January 2025

Also Read: Requirements for Scholarships in USA for International

University of Padua Scholarships For International Students (Italy)

The said programme is notable for offering roughly fifty scholarships to deserving students seeking higher education from the prestigious institution. Considering the institute is quite selective in awarding scholarships, individuals interested in the programme must have excellent academic records. Scholarship students will receive an annual fee waiver of EUR 8,000 (INR 7 Lakhs).

Scholarship Name University of Padua Scholarships For International Students (Italy)
Selection Criteria Based on academic excellence
Application Start April 2025
Application End May 2025

Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships (Worldwide)

This programme is renowned for offering generous remuneration amounts to promising students with limited financial resources. However, it should be emphasised that the organisation does not reimburse travel expenditures. Only the initial two years of a PhD study are funded financially.

Scholarships Name Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships (Worldwide)
Eligible Deree Master’s and PhD
Administered By Aga Khan Foundation via local country offices (AKF, AKES, AKEB)
Coverage Tuition + Living expenses

Geneva Academy Scholarships (Switzerland)

This scholarship programme is notable for providing lucrative scholarship reimbursements to students intending to further their education in the field of law and justice.

Scholarship Name Geneva Academy Scholarships (Switzerland)
Scholarship Types Full scholarship and partial scholarship
Number of scholarships 31
Application open4 Nov 2025
Application Close 31 Jan 2026

Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (Ireland)

The said programme is notable for offering sixty remunerative scholarships to prospective students for a year. Candidates intending to pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree from the top Irish academia can apply for the said programme.

Scholarship Name Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (Ireland)
Number of Awards60 scholarships awarded annually
Application Open March 2025
Application Close June 2026
StipendEUR 10,000

University of Bologna Scholarships For International Students (Italy)

The stated institute is renowned for subsidising promising students’ tuition fees of up to EUR 80,000/72,00,000 INR Aside from that, individuals who aspire to study degree programmes at the prestigious institute will be awarded 15 scholarships of EUR 11.059/990 INR each.

Scholarships Name University of Bologna Scholarships For International Students (Italy)
Scholarship value EUR 6,500 paper year + full tuition waiver
Number of scholarships 30 scholarship

Pgsm Paris Master Scholarships (France)

Candidates aspiring to pursue their master’s degree in the fields of Mathematics and Information Technology from the best academia in Paris are urged to apply for the said programme. The revered body promises to cover most of the monetary needs of international students, including the candidate’s security and registration fees.

Scholarship NamePgsm Paris Master Scholarships (France)
Administered ByFondation Sciences Mathématiques de Paris (FSMP)
Application Open Nov 2025
Application Close Feb 2026

Government of Romania Scholarships (Romania)

The government of Romania offers lucrative scholarships to promising candidates hailing from nations that do not belong to Europe. The remuneration promises to cover the education of successful candidates from any one of the top Romanian institutes.

Scholarships Name Government of Romania Scholarships (Romania)
Scholarship Coverage Full tuition fee, accommodation in university dormitories, a Monthly stipend, and Medical assistance
Application Deadline 12 March 2025
Result Announcement 30 June 2025

Gist Scholarships for International Students (South Korea)

The program is aimed towards individuals who intend to carve lucrative career paths for themselves in the fields of technology and science. Candidates who wish to pursue their undergraduate studies at the best universities in South Korea are encouraged to apply for this programme.

Scholarship Name Gist Scholarships for International Students (South Korea)
Monthly Scholarship StippedKRW 140,000 for Master’s students and KRW 280,000 for PhD students
Health Insurance 60% coverage for international Students
Application Deadline 14 April 2025
Results Announcement 30 June 2025

Education for Sustainable Energy Development Scholarships (Worldwide)

Every year, the scholarship program awards remuneration of up to USD 10,000/ 820,500 INR per year to a dozen students for two years.

ScholarshipEducation for Sustainable Energy Development Scholarships (Worldwide)
Scholarship Value USD 10,000 per year
Number Scholarship 12 Scholarship
Application Deadline Early March 2025

Taiwan International Higher Education Scholarship (Taiwan)

Candidates who are interested in pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral programmes are encouraged to apply for its lucrative scholarship plan. The prestigious institute is well-known for covering the majority of students’ financial needs.

Scholarship Name Taiwan International Higher Education Scholarship (Taiwan)
Eligible degree Level Master’s and PhD programs
Field of StudyAgriculture, public health, engineering, business, information technology, and more
Language of InstructionEnglish
Application Period December 2025 to March 2026

University Twente Scholarship (Netherlands)

This Netherlands-based scholarship programme is revered for offering lucrative scholarship sums to promising candidates hailing from both European and non-European nations. Candidates intending to pursue an MSc (graduate program) degree are urged to apply for the said programme. Prospective candidates who are awarded the scholarship will receive a reimbursement amount of EUR 3,000 (INR 2 lakhs)- EUR 22,000 (INR 19 lakhs) for a year.

Scholarships Name University Twente Scholarship (Netherlands)
Scholarship value EUR 3,000 to EUR 22,000
Application Open 1 Feb 2026
Application Close 1 May 2026

Paris-Saclay University Idex Scholarships (France)

These scholarships are provided to first and second-year students pursuing a master’s programme at the Université Paris-Saclay. The reimbursement amount depends on the level of the candidate’s admission (M1 or M2).

Scholarship Name Paris-Saclay University Idex Scholarships (France)
Degree LevelAll master’s programs are accredited by
Application Deadline 5 May 2025
Duration 1 to 2 years, depending on the admission level (M1 or M2).

Also Read: Top Exchange Student Scholarships for International Students

Studying abroad is no longer just a dream for those with limited financial resources, thanks to the wide range of scholarships available worldwide. From fully funded programs like the World Bank and Turkish Government Scholarships to prestigious opportunities in Italy, France, and Canada, deserving candidates can access quality education without financial burden. By researching eligibility, preparing strong applications, and applying within deadlines, students can successfully secure support and build rewarding global careers.

FAQs

How to get a full scholarship for international students?

To get a full scholarship, students need strong academic performance, leadership qualities, and relevant extracurricular activities. Applying early and choosing programs like the World Bank Scholarships, Italian Government Scholarships, or Aga Khan Foundation can increase chances. Each scholarship has specific eligibility requirements, so carefully review the requirements and deadlines before applying.

Which countries offer free scholarships?

Finland, Germany, Iceland, and Austria are just a handful of countries that offer free or low-cost tuition to overseas students.

How much of a score should a study abroad applicant have in order to be considered for a scholarship?

To be eligible for scholarships, students intending to pursue education overseas must maintain a GPA of at least 2.0.

Can I get a 100% scholarship to study abroad?

Yes, many programs offer 100% scholarships covering tuition, living costs, and travel. Examples include the World Bank Scholarships, Turkish Government Scholarships, and Italian Government Scholarships. However, competition is intense, so applicants must demonstrate excellent academics, personal achievements, and financial need. Meeting eligibility criteria and applying within deadlines is key to securing them.

How can I get an international scholarship?

To get an international scholarship, research available opportunities by country and degree level. Check requirements such as nationality, language skills, or academic performance. Apply through official portals like universities or government websites. Scholarships such as Mastercard Foundation, Geneva Academy, and University of Padua focus on talented candidates with financial need and academic excellence.

Which country is easy to get a scholarship for international students?

Countries like Italy, Turkey, and Belgium are considered easier for international students to secure scholarships. Italian Government and Padua University Scholarships, Turkey’s Government Scholarship, and Belgium’s Master Mind Scholarships cover tuition, living costs, and additional support. These countries consistently offer multiple opportunities for deserving candidates, making them attractive for international students.

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This was all about the scholarships for international students around the world. Keep an eye on Leverage Edu for more updates about scholarships.

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