Studying abroad can provide access to better academic opportunities, international work experience, global professional networks, and a completely different cultural environment. However, the cost of international education can be a major obstacle.
Tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, flights, health insurance, food, textbooks, and visa expenses can make studying overseas expensive. For students who cannot afford these costs independently, scholarships can provide a pathway to an international education.
The good news is that thousands of scholarships are available to international students every year. Some provide partial financial assistance, while others can cover tuition, accommodation, living expenses, airfare, health insurance, and other costs.
The challenge is knowing where to find these opportunities, determining which ones you qualify for, and submitting an application that stands out from thousands of other candidates.
This guide explains how to get a scholarship to study abroad in 2027, from finding suitable scholarships to preparing a winning application.
What Is a Study Abroad Scholarship?
A study abroad scholarship is financial assistance provided to help students pay for education outside their home country.
Scholarships can be funded by:
- Governments
- Universities
- Nonprofit organizations
- Foundations
- International organizations
- Private companies
- Charities
- Research institutions
Scholarships can cover different expenses depending on the program.
Partial Scholarships
A partial scholarship may cover:
- A percentage of tuition
- A fixed tuition discount
- Accommodation
- Books
- A one-time payment
Fully Funded Scholarships
A fully funded scholarship may cover:
- Full tuition
- Monthly living allowance
- Accommodation
- Airfare
- Health insurance
- Visa expenses
- Research expenses
Not every scholarship labeled “fully funded” covers every possible expense, so applicants should always review the official funding terms.
Can Anyone Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad?
Not everyone will qualify for every scholarship, but there are opportunities for students with different academic backgrounds, nationalities, fields of study, and levels of experience.
Scholarships may be available for:
- High school graduates
- Undergraduate students
- Master’s students
- PhD students
- Researchers
- Professionals
- Entrepreneurs
- Artists
- Athletes
Some scholarships prioritize academic excellence, while others focus on leadership, financial need, research potential, community service, professional experience, or development impact.
Step 1: Decide Where You Want to Study
Before searching for scholarships, decide which countries interest you.
Popular destinations for international students include:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Germany
- Australia
- France
- Netherlands
- Sweden
- Japan
- South Korea
- Switzerland
- New Zealand
- Ireland
Your choice can affect the scholarships available to you.
For example, some government scholarships are restricted to citizens of specific countries, while university scholarships may be open to international students from around the world.
Step 2: Choose Your Degree Level
Scholarship opportunities differ by academic level.
Undergraduate Scholarships
Undergraduate scholarships are available, although fully funded opportunities can be highly competitive.
Look for:
- University merit scholarships
- Government-sponsored scholarships
- International student awards
- Foundation scholarships
Master’s Scholarships
There are many opportunities for international master’s students.
Major programs include:
- Chevening
- Fulbright
- Erasmus Mundus
- DAAD
- Commonwealth scholarships
PhD Scholarships
Fully funded PhD opportunities are particularly common because universities and research institutions actively recruit international researchers.
Many PhD positions provide:
- Tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend or salary
- Research funding
- Health insurance
- Conference funding
Step 3: Search for Scholarships Early
One of the biggest mistakes students make is waiting until they receive a university admission offer before looking for scholarships.
Many major scholarship deadlines occur months before the academic program begins.
For a 2027 intake, begin researching opportunities as early as 2026.
Create a spreadsheet containing:
| Scholarship | Country | Degree | Deadline | Funding | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening | UK | Master’s | Check official site | Fully funded | Researching |
| Fulbright | USA | Graduate | Country-specific | Major funding | Researching |
| DAAD | Germany | Master’s/PhD | Program-specific | Varies | Researching |
| Erasmus Mundus | Europe | Master’s | Program-specific | Fully funded options | Researching |
| MEXT | Japan | Multiple | Country-specific | Fully funded | Researching |
Always verify deadlines directly with the scholarship provider because dates can change.
Step 4: Check Whether You Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, carefully review the scholarship’s requirements.
Common requirements include:
- Citizenship
- Academic qualification
- Minimum GPA
- Age requirements
- Work experience
- English language proficiency
- Academic field
- Leadership experience
- Professional experience
- Research experience
Do not spend hours preparing an application for a scholarship you are not eligible for.
Step 5: Build a Strong Academic Profile
Academic performance is one of the most common selection criteria.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you need perfect grades.
A strong academic profile can include:
- Good GPA
- Relevant coursework
- Academic awards
- Research projects
- Publications
- Conference presentations
- Academic competitions
- Professional certifications
If your grades are not exceptional, strengthen other parts of your profile.
Step 6: Develop Leadership Experience
Many prestigious scholarships look for future leaders.
Leadership doesn’t necessarily mean holding a government position or becoming president of an organization.
Leadership can include:
- Starting a community project
- Leading a student organization
- Managing a professional project
- Building a nonprofit initiative
- Mentoring students
- Organizing community events
- Creating a technology solution
- Leading a research project
The key is to demonstrate what you did and what changed because of your actions.
For example, instead of writing:
“I volunteered to teach students.”
A stronger description would be:
“I organized a digital literacy program that trained 150 secondary-school students in basic computer skills.”
The second example demonstrates measurable impact.
Step 7: Gain Relevant Experience
Professional experience can make your application significantly stronger.
Depending on your field, relevant experience may include:
- Internships
- Employment
- Research
- Volunteer work
- Entrepreneurship
- Consulting
- Community development
- Freelancing
- Professional projects
Connect your experience to your future academic goals.
Step 8: Write a Powerful Personal Statement
Your personal statement is often one of the most important parts of your scholarship application.
A strong statement should answer:
Who are you?
Explain your academic and professional background.
What problem or opportunity motivated you?
Show what shaped your interest in your field.
What have you accomplished?
Provide specific examples and measurable results.
Why do you need this scholarship?
Explain how the opportunity will help you achieve your goals.
Why this university or program?
Demonstrate that you researched the program.
What will you do after graduation?
Explain how you plan to use your education.
Step 9: Tell a Clear Story
The strongest scholarship applications usually have a consistent narrative.
For example:
Background → Problem → Action → Impact → Education → Future Goals
Imagine an applicant who grew up seeing limited access to healthcare technology.
They later studied computer science, developed healthcare software, conducted research on artificial intelligence, and worked on digital health projects.
Their scholarship application could connect those experiences to a master’s program in health informatics.
This is much stronger than simply saying:
“I want to study health informatics because I like technology and healthcare.”
Your application should show why your past experiences logically lead to your future goals.
Step 10: Get Strong Recommendation Letters
Many scholarships require two or three recommendation letters.
Choose recommenders who know your work well.
Potential recommenders include:
- University professors
- Research supervisors
- Employers
- Managers
- Project supervisors
- Community leaders
A strong recommendation letter should provide specific examples of your:
- Academic ability
- Leadership
- Work ethic
- Research ability
- Character
- Potential
Do not simply choose someone because they have an impressive job title.
Choose someone who can provide detailed evidence of your abilities.
Step 11: Prepare Your Documents
Start preparing your documents early.
Common requirements include:
- Passport
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- CV
- Personal statement
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
- English language test results
- Research proposal
- Portfolio
- Proof of employment
- Proof of citizenship
Some documents may require official translations or certification.
Step 12: Take an English Language Test
Depending on the university and scholarship, you may need to demonstrate English proficiency.
Common tests include:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- PTE Academic
- Cambridge English
Some institutions may waive the requirement if you previously completed your education in English or meet another exemption.
Never assume a waiver applies. Check the specific university and scholarship requirements.
Step 13: Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Don’t rely on a single scholarship.
Create a balanced strategy.
Highly Competitive
Apply to prestigious programs such as:
- Chevening
- Fulbright
- Rhodes
- Gates Cambridge
Moderately Competitive
Consider:
- University scholarships
- Government programs
- Regional scholarships
- Research funding
Additional Opportunities
Look for:
- Departmental awards
- Faculty scholarships
- Graduate assistantships
- Research assistantships
- Tuition waivers
The more relevant opportunities you apply for, the better your overall chances.
Step 14: Avoid Generic Applications
One of the biggest scholarship mistakes is submitting the same essay to every program.
Instead, customize each application.
Research:
- Scholarship objectives
- University priorities
- Program curriculum
- Faculty research
- Alumni
- Development goals
- Selection criteria
Then explain how your background aligns with them.
Step 15: Demonstrate Measurable Impact
Scholarship committees want evidence.
Whenever possible, quantify your achievements.
Instead of:
“I helped improve a community program.”
Write:
“I helped redesign the program’s registration process, reducing processing time by approximately 40%.”
Instead of:
“I led a student organization.”
Write:
“I led a 25-member student organization and organized six professional development events attended by more than 300 students.”
Specific numbers make accomplishments easier to understand.
Best Fully Funded Scholarships to Consider
If you’re looking for scholarships that can cover most or all study expenses, research programs such as:
Chevening Scholarships
For eligible international students pursuing master’s degrees in the UK.
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
For eligible international graduate students and researchers in the United States.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
For international students pursuing participating master’s programs across Europe.
DAAD Scholarships
For international students and researchers pursuing eligible programs in Germany.
MEXT Scholarships
For international students seeking study opportunities in Japan.
Australia Awards Scholarships
For eligible students from participating countries.
Commonwealth Scholarships
For eligible citizens of Commonwealth countries pursuing postgraduate study.
Rhodes Scholarships
For selected international students pursuing postgraduate study at Oxford.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
For outstanding international applicants pursuing eligible postgraduate study at Cambridge.
Always check the current official eligibility and funding conditions before applying.
What If You Don’t Have a Perfect GPA?
Don’t give up.
A lower GPA may make some highly competitive scholarships more difficult, but it does not automatically eliminate every opportunity.
Strengthen your application through:
- Professional experience
- Research
- Publications
- Leadership
- Community service
- Entrepreneurship
- Professional certifications
- Strong recommendations
- A compelling personal statement
Look for scholarships where the selection criteria extend beyond academic grades.
Can You Get a Scholarship Without Work Experience?
Yes.
Many scholarships accept students directly after university.
Others specifically target experienced professionals.
The important thing is to identify programs whose eligibility requirements match your background.
If you don’t have formal employment experience, emphasize:
- Internships
- Academic projects
- Research
- Volunteer work
- Student leadership
- Entrepreneurship
- Community initiatives
Can You Get a Scholarship Without IELTS?
Sometimes.
Some universities and scholarship programs accept alternative evidence of English proficiency or provide exemptions.
Possible alternatives may include:
- Previous education conducted in English
- A university-issued English-medium certificate
- Other approved language tests
Requirements vary, so verify the rules for your specific program.
Common Scholarship Mistakes to Avoid
1. Missing the Deadline
Scholarship deadlines are strict.
2. Ignoring Eligibility Requirements
Read every requirement before applying.
3. Using a Generic Essay
Customize your application.
4. Choosing Weak Recommenders
Select people who can provide detailed evidence of your abilities.
5. Exaggerating Achievements
Scholarship applications may be verified. Be truthful.
6. Submitting Poorly Edited Documents
Spelling and grammar errors can make an otherwise strong application appear careless.
7. Applying Only to Famous Scholarships
Highly prestigious programs can be extremely competitive. Apply to a broader range of suitable opportunities.
How Early Should You Start?
For a 2027 study-abroad intake, ideally begin preparing in 2026.
12 Months Before
Research countries, universities, programs, and scholarships.
9–12 Months Before
Prepare your CV, personal statement, language tests, and academic documents.
6–9 Months Before
Request recommendation letters and begin submitting applications.
3–6 Months Before
Complete remaining applications and monitor scholarship portals.
After Receiving an Award
Complete university admission, visa, financial, and travel requirements.
Scholarship Application Checklist
Before submitting an application, confirm that you have:
- Checked eligibility
- Confirmed the deadline
- Completed the application form
- Updated your CV
- Prepared your personal statement
- Obtained academic transcripts
- Obtained recommendation letters
- Completed required language tests
- Prepared your passport
- Checked document formatting
- Proofread the application
- Answered every required question
- Submitted the application successfully
Keep a copy of everything you submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to get a scholarship to study abroad?
There is no guaranteed easy route. The best strategy is to identify scholarships that closely match your academic background, nationality, field of study, experience, and career goals, then submit strong, customized applications.
Can international students get full scholarships?
Yes. Many governments, universities, foundations, and international organizations provide fully funded scholarships to international students.
What GPA do I need for a scholarship?
There is no universal GPA requirement. Some scholarships have minimum academic requirements, while others evaluate applicants holistically.
Can I get a scholarship without extracurricular activities?
Yes, although extracurricular activities can strengthen an application. Academic research, employment, volunteering, entrepreneurship, and professional achievements can also demonstrate potential.
How many scholarships should I apply for?
There is no fixed number. Focus on quality and eligibility rather than submitting dozens of poorly prepared applications.
Do scholarships pay for airfare?
Some fully funded scholarships include airfare or travel allowances, while others do not. Check the specific scholarship benefits.
Can I apply for scholarships before getting university admission?
Yes, depending on the scholarship. Some programs require admission first, while others have separate scholarship selection processes.
Final Thoughts
Getting a scholarship to study abroad is competitive, but it is absolutely possible with the right strategy.
The most successful applicants don’t simply search for a scholarship and submit an application. They build a strong profile, identify opportunities that match their background, prepare their documents early, develop a compelling personal story, and demonstrate how their education will contribute to their future goals and community.
Start early. Research carefully. Apply strategically. Customize every application. And don’t be discouraged by rejection—many successful international students apply to several scholarships before receiving an award.
If studying abroad is your goal for 2027, don’t wait until application season to start preparing. Build your scholarship profile now, identify suitable programs, and give yourself enough time to submit applications that genuinely represent your achievements and potential.