Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity for students to experience new cultures, enhance their education, and build global connections. However, the cost of international education can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, many organizations and governments offer scholarships to help ease the financial burden. If you're looking to study abroad in 2025, this guide covers the top 10 scholarships for international students that provide full scholarships to study abroad, from undergraduate to postgraduate programs.
1. Fulbright Scholarship
The Fulbright Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships for students wishing to study abroad. Sponsored by the U.S. government, the Fulbright Program offers fully funded opportunities for students to study, conduct research, or teach abroad in over 140 countries.
Eligibility:
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U.S. citizens who meet academic and professional requirements.
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Applicants must demonstrate strong academic ability and leadership potential.
What’s Covered:
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Tuition fees, living stipends, travel expenses, and health insurance.
Why Apply:
The Fulbright Scholarship allows students to engage in meaningful international exchanges, gaining invaluable experience while contributing to cross-cultural understanding.
Website: fulbright.org
2. Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship is a UK government-sponsored program designed to provide full scholarships for international students who wish to pursue a master’s degree in the UK.
Eligibility:
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Applicants must be from a Chevening-eligible country.
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Strong academic background, leadership potential, and professional experience are required.
What’s Covered:
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Full tuition fees, living stipend, travel costs, and additional allowances for study materials.
Why Apply:
Chevening provides excellent networking opportunities with influential leaders and professionals globally. It’s perfect for students interested in making an impact in their home countries.
Website: chevening.org
3. The Rotary Foundation
The Rotary Foundation offers scholarships for students pursuing degrees in fields that align with the foundation’s mission of promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, and supporting education.
Eligibility:
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Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to humanitarian work and leadership.
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Open to both graduate and undergraduate students.
What’s Covered:
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Full tuition fees, living stipends, and travel costs.
Why Apply:
The Rotary Foundation provides opportunities for students to study abroad while engaging in significant projects to improve communities worldwide.
Website: rotary.org
4. Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australia Awards Scholarships are offered by the Australian government and are designed for international students from developing countries who wish to study in Australia. These scholarships promote growth and development through education and leadership.
Eligibility:
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Students from eligible countries in the Pacific, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
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Must have strong academic and leadership potential.
What’s Covered:
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Full tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and supplementary academic support.
Why Apply:
These scholarships are an excellent opportunity for students who wish to make a difference in their home countries with the skills gained through studying in Australia.
Website: australiaawards.gov.au
5. DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
The DAAD Scholarship is Germany's largest scholarship program for international students. The program provides full funding for students wishing to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral degrees at German universities.
Eligibility:
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International students from developing countries.
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Strong academic background and career goals that align with DAAD’s mission.
What’s Covered:
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Full tuition fees, living allowance, travel expenses, and health insurance.
Why Apply:
Germany offers excellent academic programs, and the DAAD Scholarship provides students with the chance to study in a top European educational environment.
Website: daad.de
6. Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarships
The Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship for students from developing countries to pursue postgraduate studies in fields related to development at leading universities around the world.
Eligibility:
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Citizens of developing countries eligible for World Bank funding.
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Applicants must have at least three years of work experience in a related field.
What’s Covered:
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Full tuition, living stipends, travel costs, and health insurance.
Why Apply:
This scholarship provides the opportunity to pursue studies in top universities while gaining the skills needed to make a global impact in development work.
Website: worldbank.org
7. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme
The Aga Khan Foundation offers scholarships for postgraduate studies to students from developing countries. The scholarships focus on building the capacity of individuals in various fields such as social development, education, and health.
Eligibility:
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Citizens of developing countries.
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Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record and leadership potential.
What’s Covered:
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Partial funding for tuition and living expenses.
Why Apply:
The Aga Khan Foundation focuses on promoting education and development in underserved communities. Students gain the skills necessary to contribute to societal progress.
Website: akdn.org
8. MEXT Scholarship (Japan)
The MEXT Scholarship (Monbukagakusho) is a fully funded scholarship for international students to study in Japan, sponsored by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology.
Eligibility:
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International students who wish to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees in Japan.
What’s Covered:
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Full tuition, living allowance, and travel expenses.
Why Apply:
Japan offers cutting-edge technology and innovation, making it an ideal destination for students in fields like engineering, technology, and business.
Website: mext.go.jp
9. AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers fellowships for international students who are pursuing graduate studies in the U.S. The goal is to support women who have shown dedication to community service and academic excellence.
Eligibility:
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Female international students pursuing graduate degrees in the U.S.
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Applicants must demonstrate leadership skills and a commitment to empowering women.
What’s Covered:
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Funding for tuition, living expenses, and travel.
Why Apply:
The AAUW fellowship is ideal for women who want to advance their education in the U.S. while also contributing to gender equality and social change.
Website: aauw.org
10. Chinese Government Scholarships
The Chinese Government Scholarships are available for international students who wish to study at Chinese universities. These scholarships cover both undergraduate and postgraduate programs and promote educational and cultural exchange.
Eligibility:
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International students from all over the world.
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Applicants must meet academic and language proficiency requirements.
What’s Covered:
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Full tuition fees, living stipends, and airfare.
Why Apply:
China’s academic institutions are rapidly growing in global influence, and these scholarships are a great way to immerse yourself in Chinese culture while receiving high-quality education.
Website: csc.edu.cn
Top Scholarships to Study Abroad in 2025
The top scholarships for studying abroad in 2025 provide an excellent opportunity for international students to pursue their academic and career dreams. Whether you are seeking fully funded scholarships for international students, looking to study in Japan, or applying for prestigious awards like the Chevening Scholarship, there are numerous opportunities to help finance your education.
Start researching and applying early for the best opportunities, ensuring that you meet the eligibility criteria and prepare your application materials, including essays and letters of recommendation. With the right scholarship, studying abroad could become a reality.