10 Best Fully Funded Master’s Programs for International Students Globally

Pursuing higher education abroad is a dream for many international students. However, the cost of education, including tuition fees, living expenses, and travel, can often be a significant barrier. Fortunately, several universities and organizations around the world offer fully funded master’s programs, providing scholarships that cover tuition, accommodation, travel, and other expenses. These programs not only make education more accessible but also offer students the opportunity to study in top-tier institutions, often in different parts of the world.

These scholarships and programs are highly competitive, and they often come with additional perks such as research opportunities, leadership development, and access to global networks of alumni and professionals.

Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)

The Chevening Scholarships, funded by the UK government, are among the most prestigious scholarships available to international students. These scholarships offer fully funded master’s degrees at any UK university, allowing students to choose from a wide range of programs.

• Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens of Chevening-eligible countries and have at least two years of work experience. They must also demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to making a positive impact in their home country.
• Coverage: The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a monthly living stipend, travel costs to and from the UK, and an arrival allowance.
• Application Deadline: Applications for the 2024/2025 academic year usually open in August and close in early November.
• Programs Offered: Chevening Scholars can apply to almost any master’s program at participating UK universities, from humanities and social sciences to STEM fields.
• Chevening scholarship provides a unique networking experience with other international scholars and offers leadership and professional development opportunities through conferences, workshops, and mentorship.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (Europe)

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) are funded by the European Union and are designed for international students seeking to pursue master’s programs in multiple European countries. These programs are highly integrated and involve studying in at least two European countries during the course of the degree.

• Eligibility: Open to students from both EU and non-EU countries, depending on the specific program. Each EMJMD program has its own specific entry requirements.
• Coverage: The scholarship includes full tuition, travel costs, installation allowances, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.
• Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by program, but most applications open in October and close in January or February for the 2024/2025 academic year.
• Programs Offered: EMJMD offers interdisciplinary and transnational programs in various fields, including international relations, engineering, environmental sciences, and public health.
• Scholars study in at least two different countries, gaining a truly international perspective and experience.
• Students receive a joint or multiple degree(s) from the universities involved in the program.

Fulbright Foreign Student Program (United States)

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is one of the most well-known scholarships for international students aiming to study in the United States. Sponsored by the U.S. government, it provides fully funded master’s (and PhD) programs for students from over 160 countries.

• Eligibility: Open to students from a wide range of countries, each with its own specific eligibility criteria. Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree, and preference is often given to candidates with leadership potential and a strong commitment to their home communities.
• Coverage: The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, health insurance, and other associated costs.
• Application Deadline: Application deadlines vary by country, but most are between February and October for the 2024/2025 academic year.
• Programs Offered: Fulbright grants are available in almost every field, from public policy and business administration to engineering and the arts.
• Scholars join a vast and prestigious network of Fulbright alumni, many of whom have gone on to become leaders in academia, government, business, and the arts.
• Fulbright offers extensive support in adjusting to life in the U.S. and navigating the American academic system.

DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

Germany is one of the most popular destinations for international students, and the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) provides numerous fully funded scholarships for master’s programs. The DAAD Scholarships are designed to support academically strong students, particularly those from developing countries.

• Eligibility: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and meet the specific requirements of the chosen program. The scholarships are open to students from a wide range of countries.
• Coverage: The DAAD Scholarship covers full tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, travel allowances, health insurance, and other related expenses.
• Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the program and university, but most applications for the 2024/2025 academic year close between October and December 2023.
• Programs Offered: DAAD Scholarships are available for a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, social sciences, environmental studies, and economics.
• German universities are known for their high academic standards and research opportunities.
• DAAD offers a variety of programs aimed at fostering intercultural exchange and collaboration between Germany and other countries.

Australia Awards Scholarships (Australia)

The Australia Awards Scholarships are funded by the Australian government and are available to students from developing countries, particularly those in the Indo-Pacific region. The scholarship aims to support future leaders and build enduring relationships between Australia and its neighbouring countries.

• Eligibility: Applicants must be from eligible countries in the Asia-Pacific, Africa, the Middle East, or the Caribbean, and they must demonstrate a commitment to returning to their home country after completing their studies.
• Coverage: The scholarship covers full tuition, return airfare, a one-time establishment allowance, a contribution to living expenses, and health coverage for the duration of the program.
• Application Deadline: The application period for the 2024/2025 academic year typically opens in February and closes in April.
• Programs Offered: The scholarship supports master’s programs in fields that contribute to the development of the applicant’s home country, such as public policy, agriculture, economics, and health.
• Australia Awards Scholarships not only cover educational expenses but also provide support for personal and professional development through networking events, internships, and mentorship.
• Scholars are encouraged to engage with Australian culture and foster people-to-people links.

Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (Sweden)

The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP) are aimed at international students from developing countries who wish to study for a master’s degree in Sweden. This scholarship focuses on building future leaders who will contribute to the development of their home countries.

• Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens of eligible countries (mainly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America) and have a clear plan to return to their home country after graduation. Professional experience is also a key factor.
• Coverage: The SISGP covers full tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, travel costs, and health insurance.
• Application Deadline: Applications typically open in November, with a deadline in January for the 2024/2025 academic year.
• Programs Offered: The scholarships are available for master’s programs in a wide range of fields, including environmental studies, business, public health, and human rights.
• Swedish universities offer high-quality education, particularly in fields like sustainability, innovation, and technology.
• The scholarship program emphasizes leadership development, with scholars participating in networking events and professional workshops during their studies.

Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is aimed at students from developing countries who wish to pursue a master’s degree in a development-related field. The program focuses on building capacity in countries that are World Bank members.

• Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens of a World Bank member country, have relevant work experience, and demonstrate a commitment to returning to their home country to contribute to its development.
• Coverage: The scholarship covers tuition, a monthly living allowance, airfare, and health insurance.
• Application Deadline: Applications for the 2024/2025 academic year typically open in March and close in May.
• Programs Offered: Scholarships are available for master’s programs in areas such as economics, public policy, sustainable development, and urban planning at participating universities worldwide.
• Scholars gain access to the extensive network of World Bank professionals and experts in the field of international development.
• The program offers a direct pathway to careers in development, particularly within multilateral organizations.

Conclusion

For international students, fully funded master’s programs offer a pathway to higher education without the financial burden, opening doors to world-class institutions and global networks. Whether it’s the Chevening Scholarships in the UK, the Fulbright Program in the U.S., or Erasmus Mundus in Europe, these scholarships provide opportunities for personal, academic, and professional growth.

Choosing the right fully funded program requires thorough research, careful planning, and a clear understanding of eligibility criteria. As the 2024/2025 application cycles approach, prospective students should start preparing early to maximize their chances of being selected for these highly competitive scholarships. Pursuing a fully funded master’s degree abroad is not just an academic opportunity; it’s a life-changing experience that equips individuals with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to thrive in a globalized world.