November 10, 2025
10 Best Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students

Introduction

A record 6.3 million students studied abroad in 2025, and that number is projected to rise even higher in 2026. Yet the biggest barrier remains money. Tuition fees, accommodation, and visa costs can quickly add up—but fully funded scholarships can erase all of it.

Below, you’ll find ten of the most reliable programs covering the UK, USA, Canada, Germany, Australia, Europe, Japan, Switzerland, and New Zealand. Each includes direct insights, quick-take summaries, and expert advice from Shakil Education Group.

1. Chevening Scholarships 2026 – United Kingdom

Quick Take: Chevening Scholarships cover full tuition and living costs for one-year UK master’s programs, aimed at future global leaders.

Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Chevening remains a flagship route to British universities.

Benefits

  • Full tuition at any eligible UK institution
  • Monthly stipend + travel + visa coverage
  • Exclusive networking and leadership events

Eligibility

  • Bachelor’s degree and two years’ experience
  • Leadership or public-service track record

Pro Tip: Leadership impact matters more than grades. Show measurable change in your community.

Need guidance? Start your UK application with Shakil Education Group today.

2. Fulbright Scholarships 2026 – United States

Quick Take: Fulbright Scholarship Fully funds master’s or PhD study in the US, plus living, health, and travel support.

The Fulbright Program builds cultural exchange through academic excellence and community leadership.

Benefits

  • Full tuition, airfare, health insurance, and stipend
  • Access to 160-country alumni network

Eligibility

  • Strong academic record and clear career plan
  • Proof of community contribution

Application Tip: Write a focused Statement of Purpose linking your study goals to national development.

Let Shakil Education Group help polish your SOP and shortlist the right universities.

3. DAAD Scholarships 2026 – Germany

Quick Take: DAAD Scholarship Germany’s most recognized program for postgraduates—tuition-free education and €934 monthly stipend.

The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) funds graduates who can contribute to development and innovation.

Benefits

  • Free tuition, living allowance, and travel costs
  • Health insurance and research grants

Eligibility

  • Bachelor’s degree + strong academic record
  • English or German proficiency

Pro Tip: Prioritize courses aligned with global challenges such as renewable energy or AI engineering.

Get help from Shakil Education Group for DAAD application review and translation support.

4. Australia Awards Scholarships 2026 – Australia

Quick Take: Australia Awards Scholarship Full funding for undergrad & postgrad degrees in Australia, promoting leadership and regional ties.

Backed by the Australian Government, these awards develop future leaders in partner countries.

Benefits

  • Full tuition, travel, and living allowance
  • Introductory academic and English program
  • Health coverage

Eligibility

  • Citizen of eligible country
  • Leadership potential and commitment to return home

Timeline: February–April 2025

Plan early with Shakil Education Group—our counselors refine essays and interview prep.

5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships 2026 – Europe

Quick Take: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships Study across 2–3 European countries with full tuition, €1,400 monthly stipend, and dual degree.

This EU-funded program supports international collaboration through joint master’s courses.

Eligibility

  • Bachelor’s degree with excellent grades
  • English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)

Pro Tip: Choose a consortium matching your field and career path.

Let Shakil Education Group guide you through program selection and motivation-letter crafting.

6. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships 2026 – Canada

Quick Take: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship CAD 50,000 per year for PhD candidates showing leadership and top-tier research potential.

Eligibility

  • Nomination by a Canadian institution
  • Proven research & academic excellence

Why apply through Shakil Education Group: We connect you with universities that actively nominate Vanier scholars.

7. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026 – Switzerland

Quick Take: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships Fully funded research and postgraduate study in Switzerland with monthly stipend and insurance.

Eligibility

  • Research proposal approved by Swiss professor
  • High academic standing

Pro Tip: Secure supervisor confirmation early—it’s often the deciding factor.

Our experts at Shakil Education Group can connect you with Swiss faculty for proposal alignment.

8. Gates Cambridge Scholarships 2026 – United Kingdom

Quick Take: Gates Cambridge Scholarship Fully funded master’s or PhD at the University of Cambridge – funded by the Gates Foundation.

Benefits

  • All academic expenses + travel + family support
  • Leadership and mentorship programs

Eligibility

  • Outstanding academic record
  • Global social-impact motivation

Applications: September–December 2025

Apply through Shakil Education Group for essay strategy and reference coordination.

9. MEXT Scholarships 2026 – Japan

Quick Take: MEXT Scholarship Japanese Government scholarship covering tuition, airfare, and stipend with pre-study language training.

Eligibility

  • High academic merit and good health
  • Willingness to learn Japanese

Tip: Embassy-recommended applications enjoy higher acceptance.

Shakil Education Group assists with embassy documentation and translation.

10. New Zealand Government Scholarships 2026 – New Zealand

Quick Take: New Zealand Government Scholarships Fully funds study and living for students from developing countries at top NZ universities.

Benefits

  • Tuition + airfare + living allowance
  • Leadership development courses

Eligibility

  • Academic excellence and community leadership

Start your New Zealand journey with Shakil Education Group—get your 2026 application checklist today.

How to Boost Your Scholarship Chances in 2026

Quick Take: Early planning, personalized essays, and expert support dramatically raise acceptance odds.

1.  Start Early – Gather documents 8–12 months before deadlines.
 2. Write with Purpose – Connect your goals to community benefit.
 3. Perfect Your Documents – Keep transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL, and references consistent.
 4. Track Deadlines – Each scholarship opens at a different time.
 5. Seek Expert Guidance – Our advisors at Shakil Education Group specialize in crafting winning applications.

Conclusion

Fully funded scholarships remove financial barriers and open doors to world-class education. With early planning, strong storytelling, and the right mentorship, your 2026 study abroad journey can be entirely free.

At Shakil Education Group, we’ve helped thousands secure admissions and funding worldwide.

Start your 2026 scholarship journey today – apply through Shakil Education Group.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on 10 Best Fully Funded Scholarships

1. Which is the best fully funded scholarship for 2026?
Programs like Chevening, Fulbright, and DAAD offer global reach and generous funding. The “best” depends on your destination and study level.

2. Can I apply for multiple scholarships in 2026?
Yes—but tailor each application. Reusing the same essays reduces success chances.

3. Are there fully funded undergraduate scholarships?
Yes. MEXT (Japan) and Australia Awards offer undergraduate tracks.

4. When should I start preparing for 2026 scholarships?
Begin 10–12 months ahead to complete tests, recommendations, and financial documents.

5. How can Shakil Education Group help me win a scholarship?
We guide you through program selection, essay editing, application review, and visa support until your admission is secured.

Asaduszzaman Shakil

Asaduszzaman Shakil

CEO & Founder at Shakil GmbH

Asaduzzaman Shakil is the Chief Executive Officer of SHAKIL Education Group with more than 20 years of experience in study abroad consultancy and international education. He completed his higher studies in Germany and has guided thousands of students toward successful academic and career pathways worldwide. As a member of EAIE, ICEF, British Council, PIER, and FADCAB, he is recognized for his expertise and professional credibility in the global education sector. His research interests include the strategic internationalization of education, while his specialization in education marketing and branding management makes him a trusted voice in the field.

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