10 Best scholarships for international students 2023

Scholarships are financial grants or awards given to students to assist them in covering their educational expenses, including tuition fees, textbooks, and living expenses. These awards are typically given based on a student’s academic or extracurricular achievements, financial need, or a combination of both. Scholarships are offered by various organizations, including educational institutions, governments, and private organizations.

Studying abroad is an excellent opportunity for students to gain a global perspective and experience a new culture. However, the cost of studying abroad can be a significant barrier for many students. Scholarships provide financial assistance to students, making it possible for them to pursue their academic goals and experience new cultures without worrying about the financial burden.

For international students, scholarships are particularly crucial because they often face additional financial challenges, such as higher tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses. Scholarships not only help to alleviate these costs, but they also provide students with a sense of recognition and support, which can be particularly important for students who are far away from home.

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There are many scholarships available for international students, but in this article, we will focus on the 10 best scholarships for international students. These scholarships are chosen based on their reputation, eligibility criteria, and benefits offered to students. The scholarships are as follows:

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
2. Chevening Scholarships
3. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
4. Commonwealth Scholarships
5. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program
6. Erasmus Mundus Scholarships
7. Australian Awards Scholarships
8. Rhodes Scholarship
9. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
10. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

Eligibility Criteria

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is a highly competitive scholarship program that offers full funding for graduate-level studies in the United States. To be eligible, applicants must be citizens of a participating country and have completed an undergraduate degree or equivalent. They must also have sufficient proficiency in English to undertake their proposed study in the United States.

Benefits

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides full funding for tuition, fees, travel, and living expenses for the duration of the study program. It also offers health insurance coverage and a stipend for books and supplies. Additionally, the program provides opportunities for cultural exchange and professional development through various seminars and conferences.

Application Process

The application process for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program is highly competitive and rigorous. Applicants must complete an online application, which includes personal information, academic records, and a study objective essay. They must also submit three letters of recommendation and a language proficiency score report.

After the initial screening, applicants may be required to participate in an interview or undergo additional testing. Final decisions are made by a selection committee based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and the applicant’s proposed study plan.

2. Chevening Scholarships

Eligibility Criteria

Chevening Scholarships are prestigious awards that provide full funding for one-year master’s degree programs in the United Kingdom. To be eligible, applicants must be citizens of a Chevening-eligible country, have at least two years of work experience, and hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Additionally, applicants must meet the Chevening English language requirement by the application deadline.

Benefits

The Chevening Scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees, travel to and from the UK, living expenses, and a monthly stipend. Additionally, the program provides opportunities for cultural exchange and networking through various events and activities.

Application Process

The application process for Chevening Scholarships is highly competitive and consists of three stages. 

• The first stage involves submitting an online application that includes personal information, academic records, and work experience. Applicants must also submit two essays and two letters of recommendation.
• The second stage involves a review of the application by a Chevening reading committee. Applicants who pass the second stage are invited to an interview with a local British embassy or high commission. The interview assesses the applicant’s leadership potential, networking skills, and ability to communicate effectively.
• The final stage involves the selection of scholars by the Chevening selection board. Successful applicants are notified in July and August, and they must meet all conditions of their offer before they can receive their scholarship.

3. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Eligibility Criteria

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative that provides financial support to academically talented but economically disadvantaged students from Africa, Asia, and South America. To be eligible, applicants must be citizens of a participating country and demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential. They must also be from a disadvantaged background, with limited access to educational opportunities due to financial constraints.

Benefits

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides comprehensive financial support for the duration of the undergraduate or master’s degree program, including tuition, travel, accommodation, and living expenses. Additionally, the program offers academic and professional development opportunities, leadership training, and mentorship.

Application Process

The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program varies by partner institution. Interested applicants must first apply to a participating institution for admission to a degree program. After receiving an offer of admission, they can then apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

The application typically involves submitting a series of essays that demonstrate the applicant’s academic achievements, leadership potential, and personal circumstances. Applicants may also be required to provide supporting documentation, such as academic transcripts and letters of recommendation.

Final selection of Scholars is made by the partner institution in consultation with the Mastercard Foundation. Successful applicants are notified in the months leading up to the start of the academic year.

4. Commonwealth Scholarships

Eligibility Criteria

Commonwealth Scholarships are funded by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the United Kingdom and provide full or partial funding for postgraduate study or research at a UK university. Eligibility criteria vary by scholarship type, but generally, applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of a Commonwealth country, hold a first degree at either first or upper second class level, and meet the English language proficiency requirements.

Benefits

The benefits of the Commonwealth Scholarship vary by scholarship type, but generally, they cover the full cost of tuition, travel, and living expenses. Additionally, scholars receive a grant for research and professional development, and may also have access to other funding opportunities, such as travel grants and thesis allowances.

Application Process

The application process for Commonwealth Scholarships is highly competitive and typically involves submitting an online application and supporting documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a research proposal. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo an interview and/or provide additional information or documentation.

Applications are typically open from August to October each year, and successful applicants are notified by March the following year. It is important to note that the application timeline and requirements may vary by scholarship type, so applicants should refer to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website for detailed information on eligibility criteria, application requirements, and timelines.

5. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program

Eligibility Criteria

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program provides financial support for postgraduate studies to students from developing countries who have no other means of financing their education. To be eligible, applicants must be citizens of one of the eligible countries and demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving the quality of life in their communities. Additionally, applicants must have no other means of financing their education.

Benefits

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program provides full funding for tuition, travel, and living expenses for the duration of the postgraduate degree program. Additionally, scholars receive a living allowance to cover basic expenses, such as food, housing, and transportation. Scholars are also eligible to apply for a yearly travel grant to cover the cost of attending conferences or conducting research.

Application Process

The application process for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program is highly competitive and typically involves submitting an online application and supporting documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a research proposal. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo an interview and/or provide additional information or documentation.

Applications are typically open from January 1 to March 31 each year, and successful applicants are notified by September the same year. It is important to note that the application timeline and requirements may vary by country, so applicants should refer to the Aga Khan Foundation website for detailed information on eligibility criteria, application requirements, and timelines for their country of residence.

6. Erasmus Mundus Scholarships

Eligibility Criteria

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarships are funded by the European Union and provide full or partial funding for graduate and postgraduate studies in Europe. Eligibility criteria vary by scholarship type, but generally, applicants must be citizens of a third country (i.e., not an EU member state, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, or Turkey), hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and meet the English language proficiency requirements.

Benefits

The benefits of the Erasmus Mundus Scholarships vary by scholarship type, but generally, they cover the full or partial cost of tuition, travel, and living expenses. Additionally, scholars receive a monthly allowance to cover basic expenses, such as food, housing, and transportation. Scholars may also have access to other funding opportunities, such as travel grants and thesis allowances.

Application Process

The application process for Erasmus Mundus Scholarships is highly competitive and typically involves submitting an online application and supporting documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a research proposal. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo an interview and/or provide additional information or documentation.

Applications are typically open from October to January each year, and successful applicants are notified by April the following year. It is important to note that the application timeline and requirements may vary by scholarship type, so applicants should refer to the Erasmus Mundus Scholarships website for detailed information on eligibility criteria, application requirements, and timelines.

See more about How To Apply For Erasmus Mundus Scholarship

7. Australian Awards Scholarships

Eligibility Criteria

The Australian Awards Scholarships are funded by the Australian government and provide full funding for undergraduate or postgraduate studies at participating Australian universities. Eligibility criteria vary by scholarship type, but generally, applicants must be citizens of an eligible country (including Nigeria) and meet the academic and English language proficiency requirements for their chosen program of study.

Benefits

The Australian Awards Scholarships cover the full cost of tuition, travel, and living expenses for the duration of the program of study. Additionally, scholars receive a living allowance to cover basic expenses, such as food, housing, and transportation. Scholars may also have access to other funding opportunities, such as research grants and thesis allowances.

Application Process

The application process for the Australian Awards Scholarships typically involves submitting an online application and supporting documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a research proposal. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo an interview and/or provide additional information or documentation.

Applications are typically open from February to April each year, and successful applicants are notified by November the same year.

8. Rhodes Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria

The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarships, providing full funding for graduate studies at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. Eligibility criteria for the Rhodes Scholarship include academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Applicants must be between the ages of 19 and 25 and have completed at least a bachelor’s degree by the time they begin their studies at Oxford.

Benefits

The Rhodes Scholarship covers the full cost of tuition and provides a stipend to cover living expenses while at Oxford. Additionally, scholars may have access to other funding opportunities, such as research grants and travel allowances. The scholarship also provides access to a community of Rhodes Scholars, who are leaders in a wide range of fields and are committed to making a positive impact in the world.

Application Process

The application process for the Rhodes Scholarship is highly competitive and typically involves several rounds of review, including academic achievement, leadership potential, and personal character. Applicants must submit a personal statement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.

9. Gates Cambridge Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides full funding for graduate studies at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. Eligibility criteria for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship include academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Applicants must be citizens of any country outside of the United Kingdom and must have applied to the University of Cambridge for admission to a full-time postgraduate degree program.

Benefits

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers the full cost of tuition and provides a stipend to cover living expenses while at Cambridge. Additionally, scholars may have access to other funding opportunities, such as research grants and travel allowances. The scholarship also provides access to a community of Gates Cambridge Scholars, who are leaders in a wide range of fields and are committed to making a positive impact in the world.

Application Process

The application process for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is highly competitive and typically involves several rounds of review, including academic achievement, leadership potential, and personal character. Applicants must submit a personal statement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.

Applications are typically due in the fall of each year, and successful applicants are notified in the winter or spring of the following year. It is important to note that the application timeline and requirements may vary by country, so applicants should refer to the Gates Cambridge Scholarship website for detailed information on eligibility criteria, application requirements, and timelines for their country of residence.

10. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria

The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is a French government scholarship program that provides funding for students from around the world to pursue master’s and PhD programs in France. Eligibility criteria for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship include academic excellence, the quality of the professional project, and the importance of the collaboration between the host institution and the candidate’s home institution. Applicants must be under 30 years of age for master’s level studies and under 35 years of age for PhD studies.

Benefits

The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship provides full tuition coverage, a monthly allowance for living expenses, and additional benefits such as health insurance and cultural activities. The scholarship also provides access to a community of Eiffel Scholars, who are leaders in a wide range of fields and are committed to making a positive impact in the world.

Application Process

The application process for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is highly competitive and typically involves several rounds of review, including academic achievement, quality of the professional project, and the importance of the collaboration between the host institution and the candidate’s home institution. Applicants must submit a personal statement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.

FAQs

Can international students apply for scholarships in any country?

Yes, there are scholarships available for international students in many countries around the world. However, eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines may vary by country and scholarship program.

Can international students receive scholarships for undergraduate studies?

Yes, there are scholarships available for undergraduate studies for international students in some countries and scholarship programs. However, many scholarships are focused on graduate-level studies.

Can international students apply for multiple scholarships?

Yes, international students can apply for multiple scholarships at the same time. However, it is important to carefully read the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines for each scholarship program and ensure that you are eligible before applying.

Are scholarships only for academic achievement?

No, while academic achievement is an important factor for many scholarship programs, other factors such as leadership potential, community involvement, and professional goals may also be considered.

Can international students work while on a scholarship?

It depends on the terms of the scholarship program. Some scholarships may allow students to work part-time or pursue internships, while others may prohibit or restrict work outside of academic studies. It is important to carefully review the terms of the scholarship before accepting it.

Do scholarship programs cover all expenses, such as housing and travel?

It depends on the scholarship program. Some scholarships provide full funding for tuition, living expenses, and travel, while others may only cover tuition or a portion of living expenses. It is important to carefully review the benefits and terms of the scholarship program before applying.

Conclusion

Scholarships can be a crucial resource for international students looking to pursue higher education abroad. They provide financial support and access to educational opportunities that may not otherwise be available. In addition to financial support, scholarships often provide access to valuable resources and communities of scholars, which can help students succeed academically and professionally.

We encourage all eligible international students to explore scholarship opportunities and apply for programs that match their academic goals, personal interests, and career aspirations. Scholarships can be highly competitive, so it is important to start the application process early, carefully review the eligibility criteria and application requirements, and seek support from mentors and advisors. With dedication, hard work, and a bit of luck, scholarships can open doors to new experiences, new knowledge, and new opportunities for international students.