Dreaming of studying in a top university without student loans? The year 2026 is a very good year for international students. Many governments and top universities are offering fully funded scholarships. These scholarships can cover everything from flight tickets to monthly expenses.
Whether you want to study a Bachelor’s in the USA, a Master’s in the UK, or a PhD in Germany, this guide will help you understand how to get a fully funded scholarship.
1. Top Global Fully Funded Scholarship Programs (2026)
Getting a scholarship depends on choosing the right program and having good academic results. Below are the top five fully funded scholarship programs for 2026.
Fulbright Program (USA)
For Master’s and PhD students. Covers tuition fee, monthly stipend, flight ticket, and health insurance.
Chevening Scholarships (UK)
For Master’s degree only. Covers full tuition fee, monthly allowance, and travel expenses.
DAAD (Germany)
For Master’s and PhD students. Provides monthly stipend, tavel support, and the insurance.
MEXT Scholarship (Japan)
Available for the all study levels. Covers full tuition, monthly stipend, and return airfare.
Erasmus Mundus (Europe)
For joint Master’s programs. Covers full tuition and gives €1,000+ monthly stipend.
2. What Does “Fully Funded” Actually Cover?
Many students think partial scholarship is fully funded. But a real fully funded scholarship usually covers all main expenses.
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver: University fees are paid by the scholarship.
- Monthly Living Stipend: About $800 to $2,500 per month for a food and the rent.
- Round-trip Airfare: Flight tickets from your country and back.
- Health Insurance Coverage: Medical insurance during your study period.
- Establishment Allowance: One-time payment ($500–$1,000) to the help you settle after arrival.
3. Regional Pathways & Specialized Scholarships
Besides big global scholarships, many the countries also offer special scholarships in a 2026.
Asian Scholarships
- GKS (Global Korea Scholarship): Covers all the study expenses in South Korea. Applications usually open in February.
- CSC (Chinese Government Scholarship): Very large scholarship program with many universities.
- Turkiye Burslari (Turkey): Full scholarship plus one-year free Turkish language course.
Commonwealth & European Scholarships
- Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary): Free tuition, medical insurance, and housing support.
- Australia Awards: For students from the developing countries with a leadership potential.
- Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships: Mostly for PhD and research students.
4. Eligibility & Application Checklist for 2026
Competition is high, so you must prepare early.
- High Academic Results: Most scholarships require high grades or CGPA above 3.5.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Write why you want this scholarship and your future goals.
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR): Usually two from teachers and one from employer.
- IELTS/TOEFL: Some universities accept an the English certificate from your previous university.
- Credential Evaluation: Some countries need degree verification like WES or the Anabin.
5. Step-by-Step Guide to a Applying
Step 1: Identify Your Study Interest
Apply only to the scholarships related to the your field and career goals.
Step 2: Check Deadlines
Many scholarships close between January and a March 2026. Some close earlier in October or the December.
Step 3: Secure an a Admission Offer
Some scholarships require university admission first. Apply to the university before applying for the scholarship.
6. Expert Tips to Beat the Competition
- No Application Fee Scholarships: Some universities in Germany, Norway, and some US colleges have no application fee.
- Focus on Your Country Impact: Explain how your a education will help your home country.
- Apply Early: Some scholarships are the first-come, first-served.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply for a scholarship without IELTS in 2026?
Yes. Some universities in China, Turkey, and the Taiwan accept an a English proficiency certificate from your previous university.
Q: Are there fully funded undergraduate scholarships for international students?
Yes. Some programs offer full funding for the Bachelor’s degrees.
Q: What is the age limit for 2026 scholarships?
Most Master’s scholarships allow up to 35 years. PhD scholarships may allow up to the 40 or 45 years depending on the country.
Disclaimer: This scholarship information is shared for educational purposes only. Please verify all eligibility criteria and deadlines from the official scholarship provider’s website before applying.