15 Scholarships without Application Fee for International Students

15 Scholarships without Application Fee for Foreign Students

The financial burden of international studies—from tuition fees to living expenses and travel—can seem like an insurmountable hurdle. Some even require application fees.

But what if we told you that your dream of studying abroad is not only achievable but can also be entirely free? Yes, you read that right! There are incredible, fully funded scholarships without application fees specifically designed for international students that cover all your major expenses. 

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If you have ever dreamt of studying in a vibrant new country but are held back by application fees, you can explore multiple scholarships without any application fees, significantly increasing your chances of securing that life-changing opportunity. 

In this article, we’re going to walk you through some of the most prestigious and generous fully funded scholarships available worldwide that do not require application fees from international students.


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Understanding Fully Funded Scholarships: What to Look For

Before we dive into the specifics of each scholarship, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page about what “fully funded” truly means.

When a scholarship is described as fully funded, it generally implies that it covers all, or nearly all, of the expenses associated with your study program.

This is crucial because it means you won’t have to worry about tuition fees, accommodation, daily living costs, or even your travel to and from your study destination.

It’s a comprehensive financial package designed to let you focus entirely on your academic and personal development, free from monetary concerns.

Here are the key components you should expect from a truly fully funded scholarship:

  • Tuition Fee Waiver: This is often the largest component. It means the scholarship will pay for your university tuition, whether it’s for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD program.
  • Monthly Stipend: This is your living allowance. It’s a regular payment designed to cover your daily expenses such as food, local transportation, personal care items, and other miscellaneous costs. The amount varies by country and program, but is usually sufficient to live comfortably in your host city.
  • Accommodation: Some scholarships provide on-campus housing, while others offer a housing allowance that you can use to rent off-campus accommodation. Either way, your living arrangements are taken care of.
  • Travel Costs: This typically includes a round-trip airfare from your home country to your study destination at the beginning and end of your program. Some scholarships might also cover travel for conferences or research purposes.
  • Health Insurance: International students are usually required to have health insurance. Fully funded scholarships often include comprehensive health coverage, ensuring you have access to medical care if needed.
  • Other Allowances: Depending on the scholarship, you might also receive allowances for books and supplies, research expenses, visa application fees, or even a one-time settling-in allowance to help you get established in your new environment.

When you’re researching scholarships, always look for these specific benefits to confirm that the opportunity is indeed fully funded.

Now, let’s explore some of the most prominent fully funded scholarships that offer this complete package, and importantly, do not require an application fee.

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Top Fully Funded Scholarships without Application Fees

Now that you understand what makes a scholarship truly fully funded, let’s dive into some of the most sought-after opportunities that can make your dream of studying abroad a reality, all without the hurdle of application fees.

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) Scholarships

Imagine studying in multiple European countries, experiencing diverse cultures, and earning a prestigious Master’s degree from a consortium of top universities – all fully funded. That’s precisely what the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) scholarships offer.

The scholarship covers your tuition fees and you’ll receive a substantial monthly allowance, typically around €1,400 for 24 months, which amounts to a significant €33,600 over the course of your Master’s.

Do you need to pay an application fee?

Generally, no application fee is required for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programs themselves. The application process is centralized through the coordinating university of each specific EMJM program.

However, it’s always a good practice to double-check the specific program’s website, as some universities might have separate application fees if you are applying to other non-EMJM programs concurrently.

CLICK HERE to apply for Erasmus Mundus Scholarships

2. Chevening Scholarships

If your dream is to pursue a Master’s degree in the United Kingdom, the Chevening Scholarship is an opportunity you absolutely cannot miss.

This prestigious program, funded by the UK government, is designed to develop global leaders by offering fully funded one-year Master’s degrees at any UK university.

Chevening is renowned for its comprehensive financial support, allowing you to focus entirely on your studies and leadership development. The scholarship typically includes tuition, living allowance, flights, accommodation, and visa costs.

Does Chevening require an application fee?

No, there is absolutely no application fee for the Chevening Scholarship itself. This makes it an incredibly accessible opportunity for aspiring leaders worldwide.

APPLY FOR CHEVENING SCHOLARSHIPS

3. Commonwealth Scholarships

For students from Commonwealth countries aspiring to pursue higher education in the UK, the Commonwealth Scholarships offer a remarkable pathway.

These scholarships, funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) and administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), are designed to support individuals who can contribute to the development needs of their home countries.

Commonwealth Scholarships are typically fully funded, providing comprehensive financial support that includes tuition, airfare, living allowance, family, warm clothing, study travel, or thesis grants.

Are there any application fees?

Generally, there are no application fees for the Commonwealth Scholarship application itself.

However, it’s important to note that some UK universities might have their own application fees for admission, which are separate from the scholarship application. Always check the specific university’s requirements.

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4. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a transformative initiative dedicated to developing the next generation of African leaders.

Partnering with leading universities worldwide, including prestigious institutions like the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada, this program provides comprehensive scholarships to academically talented young people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in Africa.

This program is renowned for its holistic support, covering tuition, living, as well as all study expenses, ensuring scholars can fully immerse themselves in their studies without financial worries.

Does the Mastercard Scholarship require application fees?

For eligible applicants from certain African countries, fee waivers are often available for the university application itself.

It’s important to check the specific university’s application portal and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program guidelines for details on how to request or confirm a fee waiver. In many cases, if you meet the program’s eligibility criteria, the university application fee will be waived.

5. DAAD Scholarships (German Academic Exchange Service)

As the largest funding organization for international academic exchange, DAAD offers a vast array of fully funded scholarships for students and researchers from around the globe who wish to study or conduct research in Germany.

DAAD scholarships are designed to provide comprehensive financial support, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your academic pursuits.

The scholarships are tuition-free, with €992 per month for Master’s students, while doctoral candidates receive €1,300 per month.

Are there any application fees?

No, there are no application fees for the DAAD scholarships themselves. However, some German universities might have a small administrative fee for their own application process, so it’s always wise to check with the specific university you are applying to.

Explore our list of Top DAAD Scholarships 

6. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships

Japan, a country celebrated for its technological advancements, rich cultural heritage, and high-quality education, offers an exceptional opportunity for international students through the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship.

This highly competitive and fully funded scholarship is provided by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). It aims to foster global talent and promote friendly relations between Japan and other countries.

MEXT Scholarships cover tuition, a monthly stipend, round-trip airfare, and payment for a Japanese Language course.

Are there any application fees?

No, there are no application fees required for the MEXT scholarship itself.

In fact, MEXT scholarship recipients often have their university application fees waived by the Japanese institutions.

Here is a list of MEXT Scholarships for international students you can explore.

7. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)

The Chinese Government Scholarship program offers fully funded opportunities for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees at a wide array of prestigious Chinese universities.

If you’re looking for an immersive educational experience in a dynamic and rapidly developing country, the CSC scholarship is an exceptional choice.

Are there any application fees?

Generally, there are no application fees required for the CSC scholarship application itself.

While some Chinese universities might have their own separate application fees for admission, these are often waived for successful CSC scholarship applicants.

You can check out the Chinese Government Scholarships HERE.

8. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

For those aspiring to study in the United States, the Fulbright Foreign Student Program stands as one of the most prestigious and comprehensive scholarships available. 

Each year, thousands of graduate students, young professionals, and artists from around the world are given the opportunity to pursue their studies and conduct research at U.S. universities.

Are there any application fees?

Generally, there is no application fee for the Fulbright scholarship application itself. If you are placed through the IIE (Institute of International Education), they often handle university applications and associated fees on your behalf.

However, it’s important to note that if you choose the “Self-Placement” model (where you apply directly to universities), you would be responsible for any application fees charged by those universities.

Fulbright Foreign Student Program (APPLY)

9. Government of Canada International Scholarships (e.g., Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships)

The Canadian government, through various programs, offers significant funding opportunities for international students, particularly at the graduate level.

While some scholarships are university-specific, others, like the prestigious Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, are government-funded and aim to attract and retain world-class doctoral students.

Government of Canada international scholarships cover tuition and offer a substantial amount of funding, typically $50,000 per year for three years during doctoral studies.

Are there any application fees?

For the scholarships themselves, there are generally no direct application fees. However, when applying to Canadian universities, you will almost certainly encounter university application fees. 

Some universities might offer fee waivers for exceptional candidates or those from specific programs, so it’s always worth checking.

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10. Australian Awards Scholarships

The Australian Awards Scholarships, funded by the Australian Government, are a prestigious initiative designed to foster development and strengthen ties between Australia and partner countries, primarily in the Indo-Pacific region.

These scholarships offer fully funded opportunities for individuals from eligible developing countries to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian universities and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions.

Australian Awards Scholarships are comprehensive, covering all expenses associated with your study in Australia, including tuition, living, and travel expenses.

Are there any application fees?

No, there are no application fees for the Australian Awards Scholarships themselves. This ensures that financial barriers do not prevent eligible candidates from applying for this valuable opportunity.

11. Rhodes Scholarship

The Rhodes Scholarship provides a fully funded opportunity for international students to pursue a postgraduate degree at the University of Oxford in the UK. The scholarship aims to identify individuals of exceptional intellect, character, leadership, and a commitment to service. The Rhodes Scholarship is celebrated for its all-encompassing financial support, covering tuition, living stipends, travel, visa, and research costs. 

Are there any application fees?

No, there are absolutely no application fees required to apply for the Rhodes Scholarship. This ensures the program remains accessible to all eligible applicants, regardless of their financial background.

12. The McCall MacBain Scholarship

The McCall MacBain Scholarship is Canada’s first comprehensive leadership scholarship for master’s and professional studies. 

The scholarship supports students pursuing a master’s or professional degree at McGill University, providing a holistic and fully funded pathway to advanced education and leadership development.

The scholarship covers the full tuition, a living stipend of $2,000 per month, settling allowance, travel grants, and health insurance.

Are there any application fees?

No, there are no fees to apply for the McCall MacBain Scholarship. The program is committed to removing financial barriers to ensure that all eligible candidates have an opportunity to apply.

13. Türkiye Scholarships (Turkiye Burslari)

Türkiye, a country bridging continents and cultures, offers a unique and enriching educational experience for international students through the Türkiye Scholarships (Turkiye Burslari).

The government-funded scholarship program is designed to provide fully funded opportunities for students from around the world to pursue undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and even research programs at prestigious Turkish universities.

The Turkey Government Scholarships cover full tuition, a monthly allowance, accommodation, a round-trip flight ticket, and health insurance.

The Turkiye Buslari Scholarships do not require application fees.

14. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)

Sweden, a country renowned for its progressive values, innovative industries, and high-quality education system, offers a unique opportunity for future global leaders through the Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP).

The SISGP is a comprehensive, fully funded scholarship that aims to cover all major costs associated with your Master’s studies in Sweden.

Are there any application fees?

There are no application fees for the SISGP scholarship itself. However, it is crucial to understand that you must first apply for admission to a Master’s program at a Swedish university and pay the university application fee (if applicable) before you can apply for the SISGP. 

15. Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship

The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is a highly prestigious national initiative designed to support high-calibre researchers in all disciplines at Irish higher education institutions.

The scholarship provides a comprehensive funding package to support researchers, typically for master’s or doctoral programs.

The benefits generally include:

  • Annual Stipend: A €25,000 yearly stipend is provided to cover your living expenses.

  • Contribution to Fees: The scholarship makes a significant contribution to your tuition fees, which can include the full amount for certain programs.

  • Research Expenses: A € 3,250 separate allowance is provided to cover direct research expenses, such as travel, conference fees, and materials.

We hope this comprehensive guide has illuminated the incredible opportunities that await you in the world of fully funded scholarships without application fees.

The absence of application fees for many of these programs removes a significant barrier, allowing you to explore multiple avenues without financial risk.

Your journey to a brighter, globally-connected future starts now. Take the first step: research the scholarships that resonate with your academic and career aspirations, meticulously prepare your applications, and articulate your passion and potential.


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