Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students 2024: How to Find and Apply

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Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students 2024

Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students 2024: Studying abroad can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it can also be very expensive. Many international students struggle to afford the high tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses that come with pursuing higher education in a foreign country. However, there is a way to overcome this financial barrier: applying for fully funded scholarships.

Fully funded scholarships are grants that cover all or most of the costs of studying abroad, such as tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, books, and airfare. They are offered by various sources, such as governments, universities, organizations, foundations, and corporations. They are also available for different levels of study, such as undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and postdoctoral programs.

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However, finding and applying for fully funded scholarships can be challenging and time-consuming, as they are often very competitive and have specific eligibility criteria and application procedures. To help you with this process, we have prepared this comprehensive guide on how to find and apply for fully funded scholarships for international students. In this guide, we will cover the following topics:

  • What are the benefits of fully funded scholarships for international students?
  • What are the types of fully funded scholarships for international students?
  • What are the sources of fully funded scholarships for international students?
  • How to find fully funded scholarships for international students?
  • How to apply for fully funded scholarships for international students?
  • What are the tips and resources for getting fully funded scholarships for international students?

What are the benefits of fully funded scholarships for international students 2024?

Fully funded scholarships for international students have many benefits, such as:

  • They allow you to pursue your academic and professional goals without worrying about the financial burden.
  • They enable you to access quality education and research opportunities in some of the best universities and institutions in the world.
  • They expose you to different cultures, languages, and perspectives, and enhance your cross-cultural awareness and communication skills.
  • They expand your network and connections with peers, mentors, and experts in your field of study or interest.
  • They boost your resume and career prospects, as they demonstrate your academic excellence, leadership potential, and global competence.

What are the types of fully funded scholarships for international students?

Fully funded scholarships for international students can be classified into different types, depending on the criteria used to award them, such as:

  • Academic or merit-based scholarships: These are scholarships that are based on your academic achievements, such as your grades, test scores, publications, or awards. They are usually offered by universities or academic organizations to attract and reward outstanding students.
  • Need-based scholarships: These are scholarships that are based on your financial need, such as your income, assets, or family situation. They are usually offered by governments or charitable organizations to assist students who cannot afford to study abroad.
  • Performance-based scholarships: These are scholarships that are based on your talents or skills, such as sports, arts, music, or leadership. They are usually offered by universities or cultural organizations to support and promote students who excel in these areas.
  • Field-specific scholarships: These are scholarships that are based on your field of study or research, such as engineering, medicine, law, or education. They are usually offered by universities, professional associations, or corporations to encourage and fund students who pursue these fields.
  • Country-specific scholarships: These are scholarships that are based on your country of origin or destination, such as the US, UK, Canada, Australia, or Germany. They are usually offered by governments, embassies, or bilateral agencies to foster and facilitate international cooperation and exchange.

What are the sources of fully funded scholarships for international students?

Fully funded scholarships for international students can come from various sources, such as:

  • Governments: Many governments offer fully funded scholarships for international students as part of their foreign policy, development aid, or cultural diplomacy. Some examples are the Fulbright Program (US), the Chevening Scholarships (UK), the DAAD Scholarships (Germany), the Eiffel Excellence Scholarships (France), and the Australia Awards Scholarships (Australia).
  • Universities: Many universities offer fully funded scholarships for international students as part of their academic excellence, diversity, or internationalization strategies. Some examples are the Gates Cambridge Scholarships (UK), the Rhodes Scholarships (UK), the Erasmus Mundus Scholarships (EU), the Schwarzman Scholars Program (China), and the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (US).
  • Organizations: Many organizations offer fully funded scholarships for international students as part of their mission, vision, or values. Some examples are the Rotary Foundation (global), the Ford Foundation (global), the Mastercard Foundation (Africa), the Aga Khan Foundation (Asia), and the Open Society Foundations (global).
  • Foundations: Many foundations offer fully funded scholarships for international students as part of their philanthropic or humanitarian goals. Some examples are the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (global), the Rockefeller Foundation (global), the Wellcome Trust (global), the MacArthur Foundation (global), and the Carnegie Corporation of New York (US).
  • Corporations: Many corporations offer fully funded scholarships for international students as part of their corporate social responsibility, talent development, or innovation initiatives. Some examples are the Google Scholarships (global), the Microsoft Scholarships (global), the Shell Scholarships (global), the Coca-Cola Scholarships (global), and the IBM Scholarships (global).

How to find fully funded scholarships for international students?

Finding fully funded scholarships for international students can be a daunting and tedious task, as there are thousands of scholarships available, each with its own eligibility criteria, application process, and deadline. However, there are some steps that you can follow to make your search easier and more effective, such as:

  • Start your search early: The earlier you start your search, the more time you will have to research, prepare, and apply for the scholarships that suit you best. Ideally, you should start your search at least one year before your intended start date of your study abroad program.
  • Identify your goals and preferences: The first step in finding fully funded scholarships for international students is to identify your goals and preferences, such as your level of study, field of study, country of destination, and duration of stay. This will help you narrow down your search and focus on the scholarships that match your profile and interests.
  • Use multiple sources and methods: The next step in finding fully funded scholarships for international students is to use multiple sources and methods to look for the scholarships that are available, such as:

Online databases and websites

There are many online databases and websites that provide comprehensive and updated information on fully funded scholarships for international students, such as Scholarship Portal, International Scholarships, Study Abroad Scholarships, and eduPASS. You can use these platforms to search, filter, and compare the scholarships that suit your criteria and preferences.

 

University websites and catalogs

Another source of fully funded scholarships for international students is the university websites and catalogs, where you can find the scholarships that are offered by the universities that you are interested in applying to. You can visit the official websites of the universities and look for the sections on scholarships, financial aid, or international students. You can also browse the university catalogs or brochures and look for the information on scholarships, fees, and costs.

Government websites and agencies

Another source of fully funded scholarships for international students is the government websites and agencies, where you can find the scholarships that are offered by the governments of your home country or your destination country. You can visit the official websites of the governments and look for the sections on education, scholarships, or international cooperation. You can also contact the government agencies or embassies that are responsible for administering the scholarships and ask for more information and guidance.

Organization websites and newsletters

Another source of fully funded scholarships for international students is the organization websites and newsletters, where you can find the scholarships that are offered by the organizations that are related to your field of study or interest. You can visit the official websites of the organizations and look for the sections on scholarships, grants, or opportunities. You can also subscribe to their newsletters or social media accounts and get the latest updates and announcements on the scholarships that they offer.

Personal contacts and networks

Another source of fully funded scholarships for international students is your personal contacts and networks, such as your professors, mentors, peers, alumni, or friends. You can ask them for advice, recommendations, or referrals on the scholarships that they know or have applied for. You can also join online forums, groups, or communities that are dedicated to scholarships, study abroad, or your field of study and interact with other students, experts, or professionals who can share their experiences, insights, or tips on the scholarships that they have applied for or received.

How to apply for fully funded scholarships for international students?

Applying for fully funded scholarships for international students can be a challenging and complex process, as each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria, application process, and deadline. However, there are some steps that you can follow to make your application easier and more successful, such as:

  • Check the eligibility criteria: The first step in applying for fully funded scholarships for international students is to check the eligibility criteria of the scholarships that you are interested in applying for. You need to make sure that you meet the minimum requirements, such as your nationality, age, academic background, language proficiency, and financial need. You also need to make sure that you have the necessary documents, such as your passport, diploma, transcript, test scores, and letters of recommendation.
  • Prepare the application materials: The next step in applying for fully funded scholarships for international students is to prepare the application materials that are required by the scholarships that you are applying for. You need to make sure that you have all the documents, forms, and essays that are requested by the scholarship providers. You also need to make sure that you follow the instructions

List of Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students 2024

Fulbright Scholarship

This is a program sponsored by the US Department of State that offers fully funded scholarships for international students to pursue higher education or research in the United States. The program covers various fields of study and includes different types of grants, such as Fulbright Foreign Student Program, Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant Program, Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, and Fulbright Specialist Program. You can find more information on the official website of the Fulbright Program.

Chevening Scholarship

This is a program sponsored by the UK Government that offers fully funded scholarships for international students to pursue a one-year master’s degree in any subject at any UK university. The program also provides networking and leadership opportunities for the scholars. You can find more information on the official website of the Chevening Scholarship.

Commonwealth Scholarship

This is a program sponsored by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission that offers fully funded scholarships for international students from Commonwealth countries to pursue higher education or research in the UK or other Commonwealth countries. The program covers various fields of study and includes different types of grants, such as Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships, Commonwealth PhD Scholarships, Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships, and Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships. You can find more information on the official website of the Commonwealth Scholarship.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship

This is a program sponsored by the European Union that offers fully funded scholarships for international students to pursue a joint or multiple master’s degree or a joint doctorate degree in Europe. The program also provides mobility and intercultural experiences for the scholars. You can find more information on the [official website] of the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship.

 

Australia Awards Scholarship

This is a program sponsored by the Australian Government that offers fully funded scholarships for international students from developing countries to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies or research in Australia or the Pacific region. The program also provides academic and professional support and guidance for the scholars. You can find more information on the [official website] of the Australia Awards Scholarship.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (F&Qs)

What are the benefits of fully funded scholarships for international students?

  • The benefits of fully funded scholarships for international students include full or partial tuition and fees coverage, monthly stipend for living expenses, round-trip airfare and travel allowance, health insurance and medical care, orientation and enrichment programs, academic and professional support and guidance, cultural and social activities and opportunities, and alumni network and resources.

What are the types of fully funded scholarships for international students?

  • The types of fully funded scholarships for international students can be classified into different categories, depending on the criteria used to award them, such as academic or merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, performance-based scholarships, field-specific scholarships, and country-specific scholarships.

What are the sources of fully funded scholarships for international students?

  • The sources of fully funded scholarships for international students can come from various entities, such as governments, universities, organizations, foundations, and corporations. Each source has its own objectives, requirements, and benefits for offering scholarships to international students.

How to find fully funded scholarships for international students?

  • You can find fully funded scholarships for international students by using multiple sources and methods, such as online databases and websites, university websites and catalogs, government websites and agencies, organization websites and newsletters, and personal contacts and networks. 

How to apply for fully funded scholarships for international students?

  • You can apply for fully funded scholarships for international students by following some steps, such as checking the eligibility criteria, preparing the application materials, filling out the online application form and uploading the required documents, submitting the application form and documents before the deadline, waiting for the notification of the preliminary selection, taking part in the interview and the medical examination, if selected, waiting for the final selection and the placement notification, applying for the visa and making the travel arrangements, if accepted.

What are the tips and resources for getting fully funded scholarships for international students?

  • Some tips and resources for getting fully funded scholarships for international students are: start your search early and plan ahead, identify your goals and preferences, use multiple sources and methods, choose the grant and the field of study that suit your interests, qualifications, and goals, prepare the required documents carefully and proofread them multiple times, write a clear and compelling study or research plan that shows your motivation, relevance, and feasibility, ask for strong and specific letters of recommendation from your professors, employers, or mentors, practice your English language and communication skills regularly, prepare for the standardized tests and the interview well, be honest, confident, and enthusiastic in your application and interview, seek feedback and advice from previous or current participants or experts.