Europe has long been a dream destination for students seeking high-quality education, cultural diversity, and world-class research opportunities. While tuition costs in some European countries can be a concern for non-EU students, a growing number of fully funded scholarships are now available that cover tuition, living expenses, and even travel costs. These scholarships are provided by governments, universities, and international organizations to support global talent. This article explores the top fully funded scholarships in Europe specifically for non-EU students and offers insights into eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.
Why Choose Europe?
Europe is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Studying in Europe gives students access to a global academic network, multilingual environments, and post-study work opportunities. Importantly, several countries—including Germany, Norway, and Finland—offer low or no tuition fees, even before considering scholarships.
But beyond affordability, fully funded scholarships provide a comprehensive solution for students with academic potential but limited financial resources. These scholarships not only cover tuition but often include accommodation, health insurance, monthly stipends, and more.
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD)
One of the most prominent scholarship programs for non-EU students in Europe is the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees, funded by the European Union.
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Eligibility: Open to students from around the world applying to a participating joint master’s program.
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Benefits:
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Full tuition coverage
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Monthly stipend (approximately €1,000)
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Travel and installation allowance
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Insurance coverage
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Application: Apply directly to the participating EMJMD program of your choice.
This scholarship allows students to study in at least two different European countries and often includes a mandatory internship or research project, offering both academic and real-world experience.
2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers one of the most generous scholarship programs for international students at all levels of study—especially master’s and PhD candidates.
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Eligibility: Non-EU students applying to full-time programs at German universities.
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Benefits:
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Monthly stipend (€934 for master’s, €1,200 for doctoral students)
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Travel allowance
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Health insurance
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Full tuition coverage where applicable
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Application: Apply through DAAD’s online portal or directly via the university program.
Germany is particularly attractive because most public universities charge little to no tuition even without scholarships, making the DAAD an excellent supplement for living costs.
3. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Sweden offers top-tier education and progressive research environments. The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals is a prestigious award targeting high-achieving international students from select countries.
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Eligibility: Non-EU citizens from eligible countries with demonstrated leadership and work experience.
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Benefits:
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Full tuition fees
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Monthly living allowance of SEK 12,000
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Travel grant
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Health and accident insurance
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Application: Apply to a Swedish university first, then submit a separate SISGP application.
This scholarship is ideal for students in development, sustainability, innovation, and public policy.
4. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship (Switzerland)
Although Switzerland is not an EU member, it participates in many European educational initiatives. The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) supports outstanding non-EU students pursuing master’s degrees.
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Eligibility: International students with exceptional academic records.
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Benefits:
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Full tuition waiver
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Living allowance (CHF 12,000 per semester)
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Application: Application is made while applying to ETH Zurich master’s programs.
ETH Zurich is ranked among the world’s top universities, especially in science, technology, and engineering.
5. VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium)
The VLIR-UOS program supports students from selected countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to pursue master’s degrees in development-related fields in Belgium.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals from eligible developing countries.
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Benefits:
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Full tuition
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Monthly stipend
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Travel expenses
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Insurance and housing
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Application: Apply to a participating program and indicate interest in the VLIR-UOS scholarship.
Belgium offers high-quality education in English, French, or Dutch, depending on the university.
6. French Government Scholarships (France – Eiffel Excellence Program)
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, targets international students pursuing master’s or PhD degrees at French institutions.
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Eligibility: Non-EU students under 25 for master’s and under 30 for doctoral studies.
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Benefits:
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Monthly allowance (up to €1,700)
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International travel
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Health insurance
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Cultural activities
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Application: Applicants must be nominated by a French institution.
France offers many courses in English, and this scholarship opens doors to one of the most vibrant cultural and academic landscapes in Europe.
7. Netherlands – Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS)
The Orange Tulip Scholarship Program, organized by Nuffic Neso, offers financial support to talented students from selected countries.
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Eligibility: Non-EU students applying to Dutch universities.
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Benefits:
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Partial or full tuition waiver
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In some cases, monthly stipend and other allowances
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Application: Varies by country and participating institution.
Many Dutch institutions also offer their own fully funded scholarships like the Holland Scholarship and Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship.
Application Tips for Non-EU Students
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Start Early: Research deadlines, as many scholarships open 9–12 months before the academic year starts.
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Tailor Your Documents: Customize motivation letters, CVs, and academic proposals to match the scholarship’s goals.
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Prepare Proof of Excellence: Most programs are highly competitive and require strong academic records and clear career goals.
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Use University Support: Reach out to international offices for help with the application process.
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Stay Organized: Track different scholarships, their criteria, and required documents with a spreadsheet.