Top 12 scholarships around the world to study abroad

Studying abroad is one of the most exciting experiences for a student. It allows to experience different cultures, develop new skills and gain invaluable insight into the world around us. To make this dream come true, there are numerous scholarships available from generous donors and organisations around the world.

From full-ride awards covering all expenses, to partial scholarships that cover only some of the costs, these international scholarships offer an incredible opportunity for students to pursue their educational dreams in a foreign country. These scholarships provide an avenue for achieving your goals while experiencing something new and unique.

In this guide, we take a look at these top 12 scholarships around the world to help make your dream of studying abroad a reality.

1. Erasmus Program

The Erasmus Scholarship Program is an exchange program funded by the European Union to enable students at tertiary education institutions to study in other countries. The program offers opportunities for academic and professional development and a chance to experience other cultures.

The scholarship provides students with financial support to cover some of the costs associated with studying abroad, including accommodation, travel expenses, and course materials. It also provides language courses to help students adjust to their new environment and cultural activities to make the most of their stay.

2. Fulbright Scholarship

The Fulbright Scholarship is a program of merit-based grants funded by the U.S. government to support international exchange between the United States and other countries. Established in 1946, the Fulbright Scholarship provides funding for U.S. citizens to study abroad and for foreign nationals to study in the United States. In addition, the program seeks to foster mutual understanding and build diplomatic relationships between countries.

The Fulbright Scholarship covers a wide range of fields, including the humanities, fine arts, social sciences, and business. It also awards grants for research projects and teaching assistant opportunities in various countries. Funds are allocated to the applicant's educational institution and used for tuition, books, living expenses, travel costs, and other related expenses.

Also read: Indian Government Scholarships to help you study abroad

3. International Student Exchange Program (ISEP)

The International Student Exchange Program (ISEP) is a scholarship program designed to help students from around the world study abroad. ISEP scholarships can be used for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies in a variety of disciplines.

ISEP provides financial assistance to students participating in its exchange program and offers a variety of support services. It can provide financial assistance for educational costs such as tuition, room and board, textbooks, international flights, visas, and health insurance.

4. Australia Awards

The Australia Awards are a prominent international scholarship program that provides opportunities for citizens of developing countries to access quality education through study and research in Australia. The scholarship program is managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). It provides recipients with the opportunity to gain knowledge, skills, and the ability to contribute to their home countries.

The Australia Awards Scholarships cover a range of areas, such as health, education, governance, and economic or social development. As part of their studies in Australia, recipients are also required to undertake a research project related to the field of their studies. This research project is designed to increase the recipient’s capacity to contribute to development outcomes in their home country.

Also Read: 7 MBBS Scholarships for studying abroad

5. Commonwealth Scholarships

Commonwealth Scholarships are awarded to students from developing countries who wish to pursue higher studies at universities in the United Kingdom. The scholarships are part of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) which seeks to promote international understanding and research collaboration between the Commonwealth countries.

The scholarships are open to citizens of all Commonwealth countries and cover a wide range of fields, including engineering, science, law, and the humanities. Eligible students are entitled to a full tuition fee waiver, a stipend for living costs, travel expenses, and additional allowances. Depending upon the type of scholarship, recipients may be able to pursue a one-year Masters's course or a three-four-year Ph.D. degree program at universities in the U.K.

6. Chevening Scholarships

Chevening Scholarships are a prestigious scholarship program funded by the U.K. government and provide an opportunity for outstanding individuals from selected countries to pursue a Master’s degree in any subject of their choice. The program also offers funding for living expenses and travel, making it a highly attractive option for those looking to explore the U.K. and gain valuable qualifications.

The scholarship not only provides financial support and a life-changing opportunity, but also offers a vibrant community of like-minded people to network with and gain valuable skills. In addition, Chevening scholars have access to a range of activities, workshops, and events held at local British universities and in the U.K. capital, London.

Also read: How to get a 100% scholarship to study abroad?

7. German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) scholarship provides a great opportunity for international students to pursue their studies in Germany. DAAD scholarships are open to international students from all countries, regardless of their financial background or academic accomplishments.

DAAD scholarships cover tuition fees, health insurance, and a monthly stipend. The DAAD offers several types of scholarships, such as Research Grants, Study Scholarships and Special Programmes. Each type of scholarship has different eligibility requirements and funding amounts. For example, a Research Grant enables students to spend a one-year conducting research in Germany, while a Study Scholarship covers tuition fees and living costs for one academic year.

8. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are aimed at young researchers from abroad who have completed their undergraduate or Master's degree and wish to pursue research or further studies in Switzerland. The Federal Commission funds the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Students.

The scholarships are awarded for either one year or two consecutive years. They are available for all fields of study and research in Switzerland, including medicine, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. The scholarship provides a monthly allowance, tuition fees, health insurance, and travel costs.

9. Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships

The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships provide a unique opportunity for individuals to pursue educational opportunities abroad while furthering their personal and professional development. This program is designed to support students who have a clear understanding of their educational and professional goals, demonstrate a commitment to service, and are dedicated to making a positive impact in their community.

The scholarships offer funding for up to two years of academic study, including tuition and living expenses, and also provide access to a network of Rotary professionals and alumni. Additionally, the program provides opportunities to gain international experience and develop intercultural understanding.

10. Gilman International Scholarship

The Gilman International Scholarship is an incredible opportunity for undergraduate students to gain valuable international experience while earning academic credit. This scholarship is a great opportunity for students to gain valuable international experience and build relationships with people from different cultures while also strengthening their resumes.

The Gilman Scholarship covers up to $5,000 of the student's expenses and can be used for tuition, travel, living expenses, and other related items. The Gilman Scholarship also provides recipients with additional resources such as mentorship, pre-departure orientations, and an alumni network to ensure they have the necessary support while abroad.

11. Rhodes Scholarships

Rhodes Scholarships are prestigious postgraduate awards that enable international students to study at the University of Oxford in England. Established in 1902 by the will of British philanthropist Cecil Rhodes, the awards were created to promote international understanding and peace by allowing outstanding individuals from around the world to study and work together in Oxford.

Rhodes Scholars receive full funding for their studies and living expenses, allowing them to focus on their studies and research. They also benefit from a comprehensive program of cultural and professional development activities. These include mentorship sessions, seminars on leadership development, travel grants to attend conferences and postgraduate courses, and connections to experts in their chosen fields.

12. Japanese Government Scholarships

The Japanese Government offers various scholarships to international students who are interested in studying in Japan. The scholarships are aimed at those who would like to study at a Japanese university for either a bachelor's or master's degree. They are also available to those who wish to study the Japanese language and culture in Japan, as well as to those who are interested in conducting research related to their field of study.

The Japanese Government Scholarship provides full tuition, a monthly stipend, and other benefits such as accommodation and travel. This scholarship is available for both undergraduate and graduate studies, with a maximum period of two years for undergraduates and five years for graduates.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who funds the Erasmus Scholarship Program?

The Erasmus Scholarship Program is an exchange program funded by the European Union to enable students at tertiary education institutions to study in other countries.

2. What does the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP) cover?

ISEP provides financial assistance for educational costs such as tuition, room and board, textbooks, international flights, visas, and health insurance to students participating in its exchange program.

3. Who is eligible for DAAD scholarships?

DAAD scholarships are open to international students from all countries, regardless of their financial background or academic accomplishments.

4. What do Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships cover?

The scholarships offer funding for up to two years of academic study, including tuition and living expenses, and also provide access to a network of Rotary professionals and alumni. 

5. Who can avail of the Japanese Government Scholarship?

This scholarship is available for both undergraduate and graduate studies, with a maximum period of two years for undergraduates and five years for graduates.