Europe is a dream destination for international students, offering world-class education, diverse cultures, and exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth. However, studying in Europe can be expensive, especially for students from outside the Schengen Area. Scholarships can alleviate the financial load and help realize this desire. Every international student should be aware of these ten esteemed European scholarships.
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs)
The Erasmus Mundus programme offers fully-funded scholarships for students to pursue joint master's degrees across multiple European universities. Tuition, travel costs, and a monthly stipend are all covered. It's the perfect chance for individuals looking for a genuinely global experience, with an emphasis on academic success.
Eligibility: Students from all over the world are eligible.
Fields of Study: Wide range, including science, technology, humanities, and social sciences.
2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a range of scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies in Germany. The programme focuses on academic excellence and leadership potential.
Eligibility: Varies by programme, but most require a strong academic record.
Benefits: Covers tuition fees, monthly allowances, and travel grants.
3. Global Professional Scholarships from the Swedish Institute (SISGP)
This prestigious scholarship is aimed at highly motivated students from outside the EU/EEA who wish to pursue master's programmes in Sweden. The SISGP focuses on leadership and sustainable development.
Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA nationals with a minimum of two years of work experience.
Benefits: Tuition fees, living expenses, and travel grants.
4. Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)
Although not part of the Schengen Area, the Chevening Scholarship deserves mention for its reputation and impact. Funded by the UK government, it supports international students pursuing master’s degrees in the UK, focusing on leadership potential and professional achievement.
Eligibility: Open to students from over 160 countries.
Benefits: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, and travel costs.
5. Netherlands Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)
International students from developing nations who want to study in the Netherlands can apply for scholarships from the OKP.. It aims to foster capacity building and sustainable development in partner countries.
Eligibility: Open to mid-career professionals from partner countries.
Benefits: Covers tuition, travel, and living expenses.
6. ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarship (Switzerland)
ETH Zurich, one of the top universities in Europe, offers scholarships for outstanding international students pursuing master's programmes. The scholarship is highly competitive and seeks to reward academic excellence.
Eligibility: High academic performance and strong letters of recommendation.
Benefits: Tuition waiver and a monthly living allowance.
7. France’s Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme
Managed by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the Eiffel Scholarship is designed to attract top international talent to French universities for master's and PhD programmes.
Eligibility: Open to students under 30 for master's programmes and under 35 for PhDs.
Benefits: Monthly allowance, travel costs, and health insurance.
8. Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships
This scholarship programme aims to attract high-calibre international students to study in Ireland. It supports one year of study at bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral levels.
Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA students with a proven academic record.
Benefits: €10,000 stipend and a full tuition waiver.
9. Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students
The Italian government offers scholarships to international students pursuing master’s degrees, PhDs, or research programmes in Italy. The scholarship promotes cultural exchange and international cooperation.
Eligibility: Varies by programme but generally requires a strong academic record.
Benefits: Covers tuition fees, a monthly allowance, and health insurance.
10. Norwegian Quota Scheme
Norway offers scholarships under the Quota Scheme to students from developing countries and countries undergoing significant changes. The programme supports bachelor's, master's, and PhD studies in Norwegian universities.
Eligibility: Students from eligible countries outside the EU/EEA.
Benefits: Covers tuition fees and provides a monthly living allowance.
Europe offers a wealth of scholarship opportunities for international students, making high-quality education accessible and affordable. These programmes not only provide financial support but also open doors to global networking and career opportunities.
When applying, make sure to research each scholarship thoroughly, adhere to application deadlines, and prepare compelling documents to showcase your achievements and potential. With the right approach, you can turn your dream of studying in Europe into a reality.
