Top 10 Scholarships in Europe for Global Students
In this article, we will explore the top 10 scholarships in Europe for global students, detailing eligibility criteria, benefits, and application processes.

Europe is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, offering a wide range of scholarships for international students. Whether you are pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies, these scholarships in Europe can help reduce financial burdens and open doors to world-class education. In this article, we will explore the top 10 scholarships in Europe for global students, detailing eligibility criteria, benefits, and application processes.
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD)
Erasmus Mundus is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs funded by the European Union. It offers fully funded scholarships in Europe to international students pursuing joint master’s degree programs across multiple European universities.
Key Features:
- Covers tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses
- Offers degrees from two or more European universities
- Open to students from all over the world
Eligibility Criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- Proficiency in English (IELTS/TOEFL required)
- Strong academic background
Application Process:
Students must apply directly to the Erasmus Mundus program of their choice through the official Erasmus Mundus website.
2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides a variety of scholarships in Europe to international students pursuing postgraduate studies in Germany.
Key Features:
- Covers tuition, travel, health insurance, and living expenses
- Available for master’s and PhD students
- Focus on development-related fields
Eligibility Criteria:
- A relevant bachelor’s degree
- Minimum two years of work experience (for some programs)
- Proficiency in English or German
Application Process:
Students need to apply online via the DAAD portal, ensuring they meet specific program requirements.
3. Chevening Scholarships in Europe (UK)
The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government, supports international students pursuing a one-year master’s degree at any UK university.
Key Features:
- Fully funded, including tuition fees, travel, and monthly stipend
- Covers a wide range of academic disciplines
- Provides leadership training and networking opportunities
Eligibility Criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree with strong academic performance
- Minimum two years of work experience
- Commitment to return to the home country after studies
Application Process:
Applications must be submitted online via the Chevening website, including essays and reference letters.
4. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships in Europe (Switzerland)
The Swiss Government offers scholarships for postgraduate students and researchers from over 180 countries.
Key Features:
- Covers tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance, and accommodation
- Open to master’s, Ph.D., and postdoctoral students
- Focus on research and innovation
Eligibility Criteria:
- A strong academic record
- A well-structured research proposal
- Admission to a Swiss university
Application Process:
Students must apply through the Swiss embassy in their home country.
5. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (France)
The French government offers the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship for international students pursuing master’s and Ph.D. degrees in France.
Key Features:
- Monthly allowance, travel, and health insurance
- Does not cover tuition fees
- Focus on engineering, law, economics, and political sciences
Eligibility Criteria:
- Candidates must be under 30 (master’s) or under 35 (Ph.D.)
- Strong academic and leadership skills
Application Process:
Students must apply through their selected French university.
6. Holland Scholarship (Netherlands)
The Holland Scholarship is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education for non-EU international students.
Key Features:
- €5,000 for the first year of study
- Available for bachelor’s and master’s students
Eligibility Criteria:
- Admission to a Dutch university
- Strong academic background
- Non-EU nationality
Application Process:
Students must apply through participating Dutch universities.
7. Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden)
The Swedish Institute (SI) provides fully funded scholarships in Europe for global professionals pursuing master’s degrees in Sweden.
Key Features:
- Covers tuition fees, living costs, travel, and insurance
- Focus on sustainability and leadership
Eligibility Criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree with excellent academic records
- Minimum of 3,000 hours of work experience
Application Process:
Applications are submitted via the Swedish Institute’s online portal.
8. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this prestigious scholarship supports outstanding students for postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge.
Key Features:
- Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs
- Open to students from any country except the UK
Eligibility Criteria:
- A strong academic background
- Leadership potential and commitment to social change
Application Process:
Applications must be submitted through the University of Cambridge’s portal.
9. Radboud Scholarship Program (Netherlands)
Radboud University offers scholarships in Europe for highly talented non-EU students pursuing master’s degrees.
Key Features:
- Covers tuition fees partially or fully
- Includes living costs allowance
Eligibility Criteria:
- Admission to an eligible master’s program at Radboud University
- Strong academic record
Application Process:
Applications must be submitted through Radboud University’s admission portal.
10. VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium)
VLIR-UOS offers scholarships for students from developing countries pursuing master’s programs in Belgium.
Key Features:
- Fully funded scholarships in Europe covering tuition, travel, and living expenses
- Focus on development and sustainability fields
Eligibility Criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree with strong academic background
- Commitment to development-related work
Application Process:
Students must apply through participating Belgian universities.
Conclusion
Europe offers an abundance of scholarships for global students looking to further their education. Whether fully funded or partially supported, these opportunities can help international students achieve their academic and career aspirations. If you meet the eligibility criteria for any of these scholarships in Europe, take the next step and apply today!