Europe is a hub of world-class education, rich cultural heritage, and innovative research institutions. While many associate studying in Europe with high costs, the reality is that numerous fully funded scholarships are available specifically for non-EU students. These scholarships aim to promote international cooperation, academic excellence, and cultural exchange by removing financial barriers to education.
This article explores some of the top fully funded scholarship opportunities in Europe for non-EU students, including eligibility criteria, benefits, and application insights.
Why Study in Europe?
Europe offers a unique educational landscape with over 4,000 higher education institutions, many of which consistently rank among the top globally. Benefits include:
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Affordable or no tuition fees in many countries.
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Multilingual programs with many degrees offered in English.
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Access to travel across Schengen countries.
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A strong emphasis on research and innovation.
For non-EU students, fully funded scholarships can make studying in Europe not only possible but highly advantageous.
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD)
Overview:
The Erasmus Mundus program is a flagship European Union initiative that funds full master’s degrees in multiple European countries. Students study in at least two different countries and receive a joint or multiple degree at the end of the program.
Benefits:
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Full tuition fee coverage.
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Monthly living allowance (approx. €1,000).
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Travel and installation costs.
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Insurance coverage.
Eligibility:
Open to students worldwide, including non-EU applicants. Academic excellence and motivation are key selection criteria.
Application Tip:
Each EMJMD program has its own application deadline and specific criteria. Early application and well-prepared documents (motivation letter, references, CV) are crucial.
2. DAAD Scholarships – Germany
Overview:
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a range of fully funded scholarships for non-EU students, particularly for postgraduate and doctoral studies in Germany.
Benefits:
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Monthly stipend (ranging from €850 to €1,200).
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Full tuition coverage where applicable.
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Travel allowance and insurance.
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Funding for language courses.
Eligibility:
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree, have two years of work experience (for most programs), and demonstrate academic merit.
Highlighted Program:
DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) are highly sought-after, focusing on sustainable development and social transformation.
3. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Overview:
Funded by the Swedish government, SISGP targets ambitious professionals from selected non-EU countries to pursue master’s degrees in Sweden.
Benefits:
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Full tuition fees.
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Monthly stipend of SEK 11,000 (approx. €950).
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Travel grant and insurance.
Eligibility:
Requires leadership experience, relevant work background, and acceptance into an eligible Swedish university program.
Application Process:
Competitive and conducted in two stages: first, apply to the university, and then to the SISGP scholarship separately.
4. VLIR-UOS Scholarships – Belgium
Overview:
The Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR-UOS) offers scholarships for students from selected developing countries to study master's programs in Flanders (Belgium).
Benefits:
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Full tuition and accommodation.
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Monthly allowance.
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Insurance and travel costs.
Eligibility:
Targeted at young professionals with a strong academic background and a commitment to development-related work.
5. Chevening Scholarships – UK
Overview:
Although the UK is no longer in the EU, it remains an important European education destination. The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government, supports one-year master's degrees at any UK university.
Benefits:
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Full tuition fees.
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Monthly stipend and travel costs.
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Visa application support.
Eligibility:
Non-EU students with leadership potential, a strong academic track record, and two years of work experience.
6. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship – Switzerland
Overview:
Switzerland, while not an EU member, participates in many EU education programs. The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) offers full financial support to international students.
Benefits:
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Full tuition waiver.
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Living allowance (CHF 12,000 per semester).
Eligibility:
Applicants must have outstanding academic records and be applying to a master's program at ETH Zurich.
7. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships – Switzerland
Overview:
These fellowships are available for students enrolling in selected master’s programs, especially in science and related fields.
Benefits:
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Up to CHF 15,000 per year.
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Renewable for the standard duration of the program.
Eligibility:
Open to international students, including non-EU citizens, with a strong academic background.
8. French Government Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program
Overview:
Offered by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, this program supports international students pursuing master’s and doctoral studies in France.
Benefits:
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Monthly allowance (€1,181 for master’s, €1,700 for PhD).
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Travel, health insurance, and cultural activities.
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Tuition support at public institutions.
Eligibility:
Designed for students from emerging countries in specific fields like engineering, law, economics, and political science.
How to Maximize Your Chances
Successfully securing a fully funded scholarship requires more than academic excellence. Consider the following tips:
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Start early: Many programs have deadlines nearly a year in advance of the academic year.
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Tailor your application: Customize your motivation letters and essays to match the specific program goals.
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Gather strong references: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your achievements and potential.
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Prepare for interviews: Some programs include an interview stage—practice speaking about your goals, academic interests, and why you deserve the scholarship.
Final Thoughts
Europe presents a wealth of opportunities for non-EU students through its diverse and fully funded scholarship programs. From the Erasmus Mundus programs to DAAD in Germany and SISGP in Sweden, the continent continues to invest in global talent. These scholarships do more than fund education they open doors to cultural exchange, professional growth, and a global career.