Top Scholarships by Country: Where You Can Study for Free in 2025
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Top Scholarships by Country: Where You Can Study for Free in 2025
Studying abroad can cost a fortune, but what if you could attend for nothing? Many countries roll out fully funded scholarships for international students, covering tuition, living costs, health insurance, and sometimes airfare, too. Whether you’re eyeing an undergraduate degree, a master’s, or a PhD, here’s where to find the best-funded options for 2025.
1.Germany – DAAD Scholarships
Why Germany?
Study for Free in Germany’s public universities charge zero tuition fees, and international students are fully included. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has a range of scholarships for degree programs taught in English.
Popular Programs:
DAAD EPOS (development-related master’s programs)
DAAD Study Scholarships (available in arts, sciences, engineering, and more)
Coverage:
Waived fees, monthly grants (€934 for master’s, €1,200 for PhD), health insurance, and a travel allowance.
Who Can Apply?
Bachelor’s graduates with solid academic achievements.
2.Canada – Vanier Graduate Scholarships
Why Canada?
Canada combines top-notch education with a welcoming atmosphere and high living standards. The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are among the most respected and competitive awards for PhD candidates.
Canada – Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Why Canada?
Study for Free in Canada attracts top talent with its diverse, research-intensive universities.
Popular Programs:
Vanier CGS (PhD-level studies); Canada-ASEAN Scholarships; Ontario Graduate Scholarships.
Coverage:
Up to CAD $50,000 annually for a total of 3 years.
Who Can Apply?
PhD candidates who demonstrate leadership, research excellence, and a commitment to community.
3.United States – Fulbright Program
Why the USA?
The USA hosts world-leading universities and a vibrant research environment.
Popular Programs:
Fulbright Foreign Student Program; Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship.
Coverage:
Tuition, a living stipend, health coverage, and travel expenses.
Who Can Apply?
Recent graduates, early-career professionals, and artists from 160+ countries.
4.United Kingdom – Chevening Scholarships
Why the UK?
The UK offers a rich academic heritage and one-year master’s programmes.
Popular Programs:
Chevening Master’s Scholarship; Commonwealth Scholarships.
Coverage:
Tuition, monthly stipend, travel, and visa costs.
Who Can Apply?
Emerging leaders with a solid academic and professional foundation.
5.Sweden – Swedish Institute Scholarships
Why Sweden?
Study for Free in Sweden is known for innovation, an English-friendly environment, and openness to global talent.
Popular Programs:
Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP).
Coverage:
Tuition, a living allowance (SEK 12,000/month), and travel support.
Who Can Apply?
Master’s applicants from specified countries with professional experience and leadership potential.
6. Japan – MEXT Scholarships
Why Japan?
Japan delivers cutting-edge education alongside an unmatched rich heritage. MEXT, or the Monbukagakusho scholarship, is a generous grant from the Japanese authorities.
Popular Programs:
MEXT provides support for both undergraduate and graduate levels, streamlining the Embassy Recommendation Route for efficient access.
Coverage:
The package covers tuition in full, a monthly stipend, and travel expenses.
Who Can Apply?
The program welcomes academically distinguished students eager to immerse themselves in Japan.
7. Netherlands – Holland Scholarship and OKP
Why the Netherlands?
Dutch universities are known for their high standard of English-taught degrees. The Holland Scholarship and the Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) are tailored for global learners.
Popular Programs:
The Holland Scholarship targets bachelor’s and master’s levels, while OKP offers funding for short courses and master’s degrees focused on development.
Coverage:
Both schemes provide tuition support; the Holland Scholarship can cover living expenses partially or in full depending on the course, while OKP usually covers living costs as well.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility extends to students from non-EEA countries who possess relevant work or academic experience.
8. South Korea – GKS (Global Korea Scholarship)
Why South Korea?
The combination of a forward-looking educational ecosystem and a dynamic cultural scene makes South Korea a prime destination. The GKS is a complete scholarship funded by the Korea government.
Popular Programs:
GKS is available for undergraduate and graduate studies.
Coverage:
Support includes tuition waivers, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, and a language training allowance.
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to international students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees.
Final Thoughts
Landing a fully funded scholarship is a rare chance to earn a world-class degree debt-free. Every country sets its own eligibility criteria and application dates, so jump-start your research, craft solid application materials, and seize the opportunity to study at no cost in 2025!
Quick Tips for Scholarship Success
Keep your grades at the top tier.
Craft a persuasive motivation letter.
Gather enthusiastic and credible recommendation letters.
Be genuine in interviews and written responses.
📌 Need More Guidance?
Check our blog for the latest scholarship deadlines, practical tips, and inspiring success stories. Your study abroad adventure is just one application away!
