Studying abroad can open doors to better career opportunities, international professional networks and world-class education. However, the cost of international education remains a major challenge for students who want to attend universities outside their home countries.
Tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, health insurance, visa applications and everyday expenses can make studying overseas financially difficult. For students without substantial personal savings, paying for an international degree may seem unrealistic.
Fortunately, several governments, universities and international organisations offer study abroad programs with stipends for the 2026/27 academic year. These opportunities provide financial assistance to qualified international students, allowing them to pursue undergraduate, master’s and doctoral degrees without carrying the entire financial burden.
Some scholarships cover full tuition fees and provide monthly living allowances. Others include accommodation, international airfare, health insurance, research funding and additional settlement allowances.
This means you may be able to study in the United Kingdom, United States, Germany, Australia, Japan, Türkiye and other popular destinations while receiving financial support throughout your academic programme.
However, there is an important distinction: not every scholarship advertised as fully funded provides a monthly stipend. Some cover tuition alone, while others provide a separate allowance for living expenses.
In this guide, you will discover international study opportunities with stipends for 2026/27, their funding benefits, eligibility requirements, application procedures and practical ways to improve your chances of securing an award.
Whether you are an undergraduate, graduate student, researcher or young professional, these opportunities can help you plan your next academic move.
Application dates and funding conditions can change. The information below reflects programme information available as of 31 October 2026. Always confirm the current application cycle and eligibility requirements on the official scholarship website before applying.
What Are Study Abroad Programs with Stipends?
Study abroad programs with stipends are educational opportunities that provide financial support to students pursuing academic programmes in another country.
A stipend is a financial allowance paid to help cover living expenses while you study. Depending on the scholarship, this money may be paid monthly, fortnightly, quarterly or according to another payment arrangement.
Unlike a tuition-only scholarship, a scholarship with a stipend provides additional financial assistance for expenses such as:
- Accommodation and rent.
- Food and groceries.
- Local transportation.
- Books and academic materials.
- Internet and communication.
- Personal expenses.
- Other approved living costs.
Some international scholarships offer more comprehensive funding packages that cover tuition fees, travel expenses, medical insurance and accommodation in addition to a regular stipend.
For example, the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programme provides eligible scholarship recipients with a contribution calculated at €1,400 per month for the duration of the programme, subject to its scholarship conditions. Erasmus+
It is important to understand that a stipend is not necessarily a salary. It is financial support intended to help you manage the cost of studying and living abroad.
Why Choose a Scholarship with a Monthly Stipend?
Getting admission into a foreign university is only one part of the process. You must also demonstrate that you can afford to live and complete your studies.
A scholarship with a monthly stipend can make this considerably easier.
Here are some important benefits.
1. Reduced financial pressure
You do not have to depend entirely on personal savings or family support to cover everyday expenses. The stipend provides financial assistance throughout the scholarship period.
2. Access to international education
Many prestigious universities charge substantial tuition fees. Fully funded scholarships can make these institutions accessible to qualified students who would otherwise struggle to finance their education.
3. More time to concentrate on academics
When your essential expenses are partly or fully covered, you can dedicate more time to research, coursework, professional development and academic activities.
4. International work experience and networking
Some scholarship programmes organise professional development activities, internships, conferences and networking opportunities that connect scholars with international organisations and industry professionals.
5. Better career opportunities
An internationally recognised qualification can strengthen your professional profile, particularly when combined with relevant work experience, research achievements and practical skills.
However, do not assume that every stipend will cover all your expenses. Living costs differ considerably between countries and cities. You should compare the actual funding amount with the estimated cost of accommodation, food, transport and other necessities before accepting an offer.
10 Study Abroad Programs with Stipends for 2026/27
The following scholarship programmes are worth considering if you want to study internationally and receive financial assistance.
Funding, eligibility and application periods differ. Some opportunities are available to undergraduate students, while others target master’s students, doctoral candidates and professionals with relevant work experience.
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship – Europe
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters is one of the most attractive study abroad opportunities for international students interested in pursuing postgraduate education in Europe.
Funded through the European Union’s Erasmus+ programme, Erasmus Mundus supports international master’s programmes delivered by partnerships of universities in different countries.
One major advantage is that students can study at multiple European universities during the same degree programme. Depending on the course, you may study in two or more countries and graduate with a joint or multiple degree.
Scholarship benefits include:
- A scholarship contribution of €1,400 per month for the programme duration.
- Financial support for the full duration of the eligible master’s programme.
- Opportunities to study at participating European universities.
- International academic and professional networking.
- Exposure to different educational systems and cultures.
The scholarship calculation is based on €1,400 multiplied by the number of months in the programme. Eligible programmes generally last between 12 and 24 months. Erasmus++1
Who can apply?
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters scholarships are open to students from different countries worldwide. Applicants generally need a recognised bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification, or must be in the final year of their undergraduate programme and graduate before the master’s programme begins.
You must also satisfy the admission requirements of your chosen course.
How to apply:
- Visit the official Erasmus Mundus catalogue.
- Search for master’s programmes related to your academic background.
- Review each programme’s entry requirements.
- Check the scholarship application deadline.
- Prepare your academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter and recommendation letters.
- Submit your application directly to the programme consortium.
2026/27 application information: Applications for many 2026-intake programmes have already closed. However, students planning for the 2027 intake should begin researching available programmes because application periods are determined individually by each consortium, often opening several months before the academic year.
2. Chevening Scholarship – United Kingdom
The Chevening Scholarship is a prestigious UK government scholarship designed to support outstanding emerging leaders from eligible countries.
It provides an opportunity to pursue a one-year master’s degree at an eligible UK university.
Unlike scholarships that focus primarily on academic performance, Chevening also considers leadership potential, professional experience, networking ability and the applicant’s plans to contribute to their home country.
Scholarship benefits include:
- Full payment of eligible university tuition fees.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Return economy-class airfare.
- Arrival allowance.
- Departure allowance.
- Visa application cost.
- Additional travel support under programme conditions.
The monthly stipend depends on whether the scholar studies inside or outside London. The rates are subject to annual review. Chevening+1
Who can apply?
Chevening generally targets applicants who:
- Are citizens of an eligible country.
- Have completed an undergraduate degree that qualifies them for postgraduate study.
- Meet the programme’s post-graduation work experience requirement.
- Demonstrate leadership and networking potential.
- Select eligible UK master’s courses.
- Agree to the applicable return-home requirement after completing their studies.
You should check the exact eligibility criteria for your nationality and application cycle.
How to apply:
- Visit the Chevening website.
- Confirm that your country participates.
- Identify eligible master’s courses at UK universities.
- Prepare your employment history and leadership examples.
- Write compelling application essays.
- Submit your application through the official application portal when applications open.
2026/27 application information: The 2026/27 application cycle has passed its application period by October 2026. Prospective applicants should begin preparing for the next available cycle and monitor the official website for opening announcements.
3. DAAD Scholarships – Germany
Germany is a popular destination for international students because of its established universities, research institutions and range of English-taught postgraduate programmes.
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) provides scholarships for international students, graduates, doctoral candidates and researchers who want to study or conduct research in Germany.
DAAD offers different scholarship categories, including master’s scholarships, doctoral funding, research grants and development-related postgraduate programmes.
Scholarship benefits may include:
- Monthly financial allowance.
- Travel allowance.
- Health, accident and personal liability insurance in many programmes.
- Research allowances.
- Additional support for language courses.
- Other programme-specific benefits.
DAAD’s published general scholarship information gives examples of monthly payments of €992 for students and €1,300 for doctoral candidates. Actual funding depends on the scholarship programme and its current conditions. DAAD+1
Who can apply?
Eligibility depends on the particular DAAD programme. Common applicant categories include:
- International graduates seeking master’s degrees.
- Students interested in doctoral research.
- Researchers undertaking academic projects.
- Professionals applying for development-related postgraduate courses.
Some programmes specifically target applicants from developing countries.
How to apply:
- Visit the official DAAD scholarship database.
- Select your country of origin.
- Choose your intended academic level.
- Search for programmes related to your field.
- Read the eligibility and funding requirements.
- Prepare the requested academic and professional documents.
- Submit your application through the designated portal.
2026/27 application information: DAAD does not have one universal application deadline. Each scholarship has its own application calendar, so you should check the specific programme rather than relying on a general deadline.
4. Australia Awards Scholarships – Australia
The Australia Awards Scholarships are funded by the Australian Government to support students from eligible developing countries.
The programme aims to develop the knowledge and professional skills of individuals who can contribute to the development of their home countries.
Depending on the participating country and available programmes, recipients can pursue eligible undergraduate or postgraduate qualifications at participating Australian universities and technical institutions.
Scholarship benefits generally include:
- Full tuition fees.
- Return economy-class airfare.
- Establishment allowance.
- Contribution to living expenses.
- Overseas Student Health Cover.
- Introductory Academic Programme.
- Possible supplementary academic support.
- Eligible fieldwork support.
The living allowance is paid fortnightly at a rate determined by the Australian Government. DFAT+1
Who can apply?
Applicants must generally:
- Be citizens of an eligible participating country.
- Meet the academic entry requirements.
- Satisfy the programme’s English-language requirements.
- Demonstrate professional or leadership potential.
- Meet country-specific eligibility requirements.
- Be willing to comply with the scholarship’s conditions.
One important condition is that scholarship recipients must leave Australia for at least two years after completing their scholarship. Failure to comply can result in a debt for the accrued scholarship costs.
Important 2027 intake update: Nigeria was included in the Africa participating-country list for the 2027 intake. Applications opened on 1 February 2026 and closed on 30 April 2026. Therefore, this particular 2027 application round is no longer open as of 31 October 2026. DFAT+1
Students should monitor future application announcements and check the participating-country list before preparing an application.
5. Türkiye Scholarships – Türkiye
The Türkiye Scholarships is a government-funded scholarship programme that provides international students with opportunities to study at universities in Türkiye.
It is particularly interesting because it offers scholarships at multiple academic levels, including associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees and PhD programmes.
Unlike some international scholarships that focus mainly on postgraduate education, Türkiye Scholarships provides opportunities for undergraduate applicants as well.
Scholarship benefits include:
- University and department placement.
- Monthly stipend.
- Tuition fee coverage.
- One-year Turkish language course.
- Accommodation.
- Health insurance.
- One-off flight ticket at the beginning of studies and another at graduation.
The official scholarship website currently lists monthly stipend amounts as follows:
| Study level | Monthly stipend |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 6,500 TL |
| Master’s | 9,500 TL |
| PhD | 13,000 TL |
These amounts should be checked against the latest official scholarship announcement because funding rates can change. Turkey Scholarships
Who can apply?
International students who meet the academic and age requirements can apply.
The published general criteria include:
- At least 70% academic achievement for undergraduate applicants.
- At least 75% for postgraduate applicants.
- At least 90% for medicine, dentistry and pharmacy applicants.
- Applicants must meet the age limit for their intended academic level.
Applicants should check the official criteria because eligibility differs by degree level and programme.
How to apply:
- Visit the Türkiye Scholarships website.
- Create an account on the application system.
- Complete your personal and educational information.
- Upload the required documents.
- Select your preferred universities and programmes.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
2026/27 application information: Türkiye Scholarships generally accepts applications between 10 January and 20 February each year. Students interested in the 2027 intake should prepare ahead of the anticipated January 2027 application period. Turkey Scholarships
6. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Programme – Multiple Countries
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is an international scholarship initiative designed to support professionals from eligible developing countries.
It provides funding for selected master’s programmes related to economic development, public policy, infrastructure and other development priorities.
One major advantage is that successful applicants can study at participating universities in different countries, including institutions in the United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania and Japan.
Scholarship benefits include:
- Tuition fees.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Round-trip airfare.
- Health insurance.
- Travel allowance.
The programme is particularly relevant to professionals who want to develop expertise that can contribute to economic and social development in their home countries. JJ/WBGSP+1
Who can apply?
Applicants generally need to:
- Be citizens of an eligible developing country.
- Hold an appropriate undergraduate qualification.
- Have relevant professional experience.
- Demonstrate a history of contributing to their country’s development.
- Secure admission to an eligible participating master’s programme.
- Meet the programme’s other eligibility conditions.
An important detail is that admission to just any university is insufficient. You must be admitted to one of the participating master’s programmes recognised by the scholarship.
2027 application dates:
The World Bank has announced two application windows:
| Application window | Opening date | Closing date |
|---|---|---|
| Window 1 | 18 January 2027 | 26 February 2027 |
| Window 2 | 29 March 2027 | 21 May 2027 |
These dates are particularly useful for students planning their 2027 postgraduate applications. You should begin by identifying a participating master’s programme and checking its admission requirements. JJ/WBGSP
7. Monash Graduate Scholarship – Australia
The Monash Graduate Scholarship is an opportunity for international students interested in undertaking research-based postgraduate degrees in Australia.
Offered by Monash University, the scholarship provides a living allowance to support eligible students undertaking research master’s and doctoral programmes.
This is worth considering if you have a strong academic background and want to pursue a research career.
Scholarship benefits:
- Annual living allowance of AUD $41,100 for the 2027 rate.
- Financial support during eligible research studies.
- Opportunities to undertake postgraduate research at Monash University.
The stipend is intended to help with living costs. It should not automatically be interpreted as a full tuition-fee waiver; check the separate tuition scholarship arrangements applicable to your offer. Study at Monash+1
Who can apply?
The scholarship is available to eligible domestic and international students undertaking research master’s or doctoral degrees at Monash.
Applicants must meet the university’s admission requirements, English-language requirements and competitive scholarship selection criteria.
How to apply:
- Visit Monash University’s scholarship website.
- Identify an eligible research degree.
- Review the admission requirements.
- Prepare your academic transcripts and research proposal where required.
- Submit your research degree application.
- Follow the university’s scholarship application instructions.
2026/27 application information: Monash offers multiple scholarship rounds each year. Check the university’s current research scholarship calendar for the next available application round.
8. Italian Government Scholarships – Italy
The Italian Government provides scholarships for international students who want to undertake eligible academic programmes in Italy.
Administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, these scholarships aim to strengthen international academic, cultural, scientific and technological cooperation.
The programme supports eligible foreign students and Italian citizens living abroad.
Funding may include:
- Financial scholarship support.
- Eligible academic programme funding.
- Access to participating Italian universities.
- Other benefits specified in the relevant annual call.
The exact amount, duration and covered expenses depend on the annual scholarship announcement.
Who can apply?
Eligibility depends on the applicant’s nationality, academic background, age and intended course of study.
Applicants must select eligible academic programmes and meet the requirements specified in the official call.
How to apply:
- Visit the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
- Review the scholarship announcement.
- Check whether your country is eligible.
- Identify participating universities and academic programmes.
- Prepare the required academic documents.
- Submit your application through the Study in Italy portal.
2026/27 application information: The Italian Government has published a scholarship call for the 2026/27 academic year. However, applicants should check the official announcement for the applicable deadline and whether any application opportunity remains available. Foreign Affairs Ministry+1
9. World Bank and University Research Funding – United States and Other Destinations
Another route to studying abroad with a stipend is through university-funded research positions.
Several universities provide graduate research assistantships, doctoral scholarships and research fellowships for international applicants.
Unlike traditional government scholarships, these opportunities may be offered directly by academic departments, research centres or individual universities.
They are particularly relevant to students interested in science, engineering, public health, economics, computer science and other research-intensive disciplines.
Possible funding benefits include:
- Annual or monthly research stipends.
- Tuition fee waivers.
- Health insurance contributions.
- Research funding.
- Access to university facilities.
- Academic supervision and professional development.
However, the funding structure varies significantly between institutions. A research assistantship may require you to work on an academic project or support a lecturer’s research activities.
Who can apply?
Requirements depend on the university and department. Many research-funded positions require a strong academic record, relevant research experience, a suitable research proposal and recommendation letters.
How to find opportunities:
- Search university graduate funding pages.
- Look for funded PhD positions.
- Search for research assistantships in your discipline.
- Contact potential supervisors.
- Check departmental scholarship announcements.
- Confirm whether international students are eligible.
This is an important strategy because some university-funded research opportunities are not advertised on general scholarship websites.
10. University-Specific Fully Funded Scholarships – United Kingdom and Other Countries
Do not limit your scholarship search to government programmes. Individual universities also offer financial support to outstanding international applicants.
Some university scholarships provide complete tuition coverage alongside a living-cost grant, while others provide partial funding.
For example, the University of Oxford’s Clarendon Fund offers graduate scholarships covering course fees and a grant for living expenses. Applicants are generally considered through their graduate course applications, subject to the relevant deadlines and conditions.
Other institutions also provide scholarships for international master’s and doctoral students.
Potential funding benefits include:
- Full or partial tuition fee coverage.
- Living-cost grants.
- Research allowances.
- Accommodation assistance.
- Conference and academic development support.
Who can apply?
Requirements depend on the university and individual award. Some scholarships are merit-based, while others consider financial circumstances, academic discipline, nationality or research potential.
How to apply:
- Identify universities offering your preferred course.
- Visit their official scholarship pages.
- Check international student eligibility.
- Compare tuition and living-cost funding.
- Submit your admission application.
- Complete any additional scholarship requirements.
Comparison of Study Abroad Programs with Stipends 2026/27
Here is a quick comparison to help you identify which scholarship is worth exploring based on your academic level and funding requirements.
| Scholarship | Destination | Study level | Funding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erasmus Mundus | Europe | Master’s | €1,400/month |
| Chevening | UK | Master’s | Monthly stipend |
| DAAD | Germany | Master’s/PhD | Monthly stipend |
| Australia Awards | Australia | Undergraduate/PG | Living allowance |
| Türkiye Scholarships | Türkiye | Undergraduate/PG/PhD | Monthly stipend |
| JJ/WBGSP | Multiple countries | Master’s | Living stipend |
| Monash Graduate | Australia | Research Master’s/PhD | AUD $41,100/year |
| Italian Government | Italy | Eligible programmes | Programme-specific |
| University research funding | Multiple countries | Master’s/PhD | Varies |
| Clarendon | UK | Master’s/PhD | Living-cost grant |
PG = postgraduate. Funding is subject to individual scholarship conditions. The table does not imply that every programme is currently accepting applications.
Eligibility Requirements for International Scholarships with Stipends
Before applying for study abroad programs with stipends, you should understand the common eligibility requirements.
Although individual scholarship providers have different selection criteria, most international funding opportunities assess the following areas.
1. Academic Qualifications
Your academic background is one of the most important parts of your scholarship application.
For undergraduate scholarships, you may need secondary school qualifications or equivalent certificates.
For master’s scholarships, you generally need a recognised bachelor’s degree.
For doctoral scholarships, you may need a master’s degree, research experience or evidence of your ability to undertake independent academic research.
Some programmes specify minimum grades, while others assess applicants based on their overall academic achievements.
2. English Language Proficiency
If you want to study in an English-speaking country, you may need to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in English.
Some universities and scholarship providers accept internationally recognised English-language tests, including:
- IELTS Academic.
- TOEFL iBT.
- PTE Academic.
- Cambridge English qualifications.
However, not every institution requires these examinations. Some accept previous education completed in English or other evidence of language proficiency.
Do not pay for an English-language examination until you have checked the requirements of your chosen university and scholarship.
3. Nationality and Residency
Some government-funded scholarships are available only to citizens of selected countries.
For example, Australia Awards operates through participating countries, while the World Bank Graduate Scholarship Programme has a specific list of eligible developing countries.
Before investing time in an application, confirm that your nationality qualifies.
4. Professional Experience
Certain international scholarships prioritise applicants with relevant professional experience.
This is particularly important for programmes designed to develop future leaders, policymakers, researchers and professionals.
Chevening, for example, has professional work experience requirements.
Other scholarships may accept recent graduates without substantial employment history.
5. Leadership and Community Development
Some scholarship committees want to understand how you have contributed to your community or professional environment.
Leadership experience does not necessarily mean holding a senior management position.
You may demonstrate leadership through:
- Volunteering.
- Community development projects.
- Professional initiatives.
- Research activities.
- Student leadership.
- Social entrepreneurship.
- Organising educational programmes.
Your application should explain what you accomplished, the challenges you faced and the impact of your activities.
Documents Required for Study Abroad Scholarship Applications
Preparing your documents early can make the application process easier.
Although requirements vary, international scholarship applications commonly request the following:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Academic transcripts | Evidence of previous academic performance |
| Degree certificate | Confirmation of completed qualifications |
| International passport | Identity and travel documentation |
| Curriculum Vitae (CV) | Academic and professional background |
| Motivation letter | Explanation of your academic goals |
| Recommendation letters | Academic or professional references |
| English test results | Evidence of language proficiency, where required |
| Research proposal | Explanation of proposed research, where required |
| Employment records | Evidence of relevant professional experience |
| Personal statement | Information about your background and ambitions |
Some scholarship providers may request additional documents, such as a portfolio, writing sample, financial information or proof of professional registration.
Important: Do not submit fabricated academic certificates, employment records or recommendation letters. Scholarship providers may verify submitted documents, and false information can result in rejection or withdrawal of an award.
How to Apply for Study Abroad Programs with Stipends in 2026/27
Finding a scholarship is only the beginning. You must also prepare a competitive application that meets the provider’s requirements.
Here is a practical process you can follow.
Step 1: Choose Your Preferred Study Destination
Start by identifying the countries where you would like to study.
Consider destinations such as:
- United Kingdom.
- United States.
- Germany.
- Australia.
- Canada.
- Japan.
- Italy.
- Türkiye.
- France.
- Other European countries.
Your choice should depend on your preferred academic programme, available funding, career objectives and cost of living.
Do not select a country simply because it is popular. A less competitive university or scholarship in another country may provide a better opportunity.
Step 2: Identify Scholarships That Match Your Academic Level
Not every scholarship accepts undergraduate, master’s and doctoral applicants.
Create a shortlist based on your current qualification.
For example:
- Secondary school graduates should prioritise undergraduate scholarships.
- Bachelor’s degree holders should explore master’s scholarships.
- Master’s degree holders should consider doctoral funding and research scholarships.
- Experienced professionals should investigate leadership and development-focused scholarships.
This prevents you from wasting time on opportunities for which you are not eligible.
Step 3: Check the Funding Package
Read the scholarship benefits carefully.
Look for information about:
- Tuition fee coverage.
- Monthly stipend.
- Accommodation.
- Airfare.
- Visa expenses.
- Health insurance.
- Research allowances.
- Additional financial support.
A scholarship that covers tuition but provides no living allowance may not be suitable if you cannot independently afford accommodation and daily expenses.
Calculate the difference between the stipend and the estimated cost of living before accepting an offer.
Step 4: Prepare Your Academic and Professional Documents
Collect your certificates, transcripts, passport, CV and recommendation letters.
If you are applying for a research programme, start preparing your research proposal and contact potential academic supervisors where appropriate.
Your documents should be accurate, properly formatted and consistent.
Step 5: Write a Strong Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter should explain:
- Why you want to study the selected course.
- Why you chose the university.
- How your previous education prepared you.
- What you hope to achieve professionally.
- How the scholarship will help you accomplish your goals.
- How you intend to use your education after graduation.
Avoid generic statements that could apply to thousands of applicants.
Scholarship committees want to understand your actual goals, achievements and potential contributions.
Step 6: Submit Your Application Through the Official Portal
Most major scholarship programmes have dedicated online application systems.
Create an account, complete the required information and upload your documents.
Before submitting, check:
- Whether all mandatory fields are completed.
- Whether your documents meet the required file formats.
- Whether your personal information is correct.
- Whether your chosen course is eligible.
- Whether the application deadline has passed.
Keep a copy of your submission confirmation.
Step 7: Prepare for Interviews
Some scholarship programmes conduct interviews to evaluate shortlisted applicants.
You may be asked about your academic interests, professional experience, leadership abilities and future plans.
Prepare clear answers that demonstrate your understanding of the programme and your reasons for applying.
Do not memorise generic answers. Be prepared to explain your actual experiences and achievements.
How to Find More Fully Funded Scholarships with Monthly Stipends
The scholarships listed above are not the only opportunities available to international students.
Universities, governments, foundations and international organisations regularly announce new funding opportunities.
You can use the following resources to discover additional programmes.
| Scholarship resource | What you can find |
|---|---|
| ScholarshipPortal | International scholarships and university funding |
| DAAD | Scholarships and research opportunities in Germany |
| Erasmus+ | European joint master’s scholarships |
| Chevening | UK government scholarships |
| Study Australia | Australian education and funding information |
| Türkiye Scholarships | Turkish government scholarships |
| World Bank Scholarships | Development-related postgraduate funding |
You should also visit the official websites of universities in your preferred destination.
Many institutions advertise scholarships directly through their international admissions and graduate research departments.
Important Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
International scholarships can attract thousands of applicants, and some programmes offer only a limited number of awards.
Having good grades is useful, but it does not guarantee success.
Consider these strategies when preparing your application.
Apply to multiple suitable scholarships.
Do not depend on one scholarship. Identify several opportunities that match your qualifications and apply where permitted.
Start preparing early.
Some scholarship applications require multiple documents, academic references and admission into a university before the scholarship application can be completed.
Starting early gives you time to address missing requirements.
Choose courses that match your background.
A scholarship application is more convincing when your selected course connects logically with your previous education, professional experience or research interests.
Demonstrate measurable achievements.
Instead of simply claiming that you are a hardworking individual, explain what you have accomplished.
For example, describe a project you managed, a research contribution you made or a community initiative you helped develop.
Write individual application essays.
Avoid sending the same motivation letter to every scholarship provider. Adapt your application to the programme’s objectives and selection criteria.
Check deadlines regularly.
Scholarship deadlines can change, and some programmes close applications earlier than expected.
Use a calendar to track application opening dates, closing dates, interviews and admission requirements.
Beware of Scholarship Scams and Fake Study Abroad Agents
The popularity of fully funded scholarships has created opportunities for scammers who target students looking to study overseas.
Some fraudulent websites advertise guaranteed scholarships in exchange for application fees, processing charges or personal information.
Be careful when dealing with individuals or organisations that promise guaranteed admission or scholarship approval.
Here are some warning signs:
- Someone promises a fully funded scholarship without reviewing your qualifications.
- An agent requests payment to guarantee selection.
- A website uses an unofficial email address while claiming to represent a government.
- You are asked to send money to a personal bank account.
- The scholarship cannot be verified on the official university or government website.
- Someone pressures you to submit sensitive documents through an unverified platform.
Legitimate scholarship providers publish their eligibility requirements, application procedures and official contact information.
Always apply through the official scholarship portal whenever possible.
You should also remember that paying a legitimate university application fee is different from paying someone who claims they can guarantee a scholarship.
Protect your passport details, academic records and financial information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Study Abroad Programs with Stipends
1. Can I study abroad for free with a monthly stipend?
Yes. Some fully funded international scholarships cover tuition fees and provide a monthly stipend for living expenses.
Examples include Erasmus Mundus, Chevening, DAAD, Türkiye Scholarships and selected World Bank scholarship programmes.
However, funding conditions differ, and you should check what each award covers.
2. Which country offers fully funded scholarships with stipends?
Several countries offer government-funded and university-funded scholarships to international students.
Popular destinations include Germany, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Türkiye, Italy and other European countries.
The best destination depends on your academic qualifications, nationality and preferred course.
3. Can undergraduate students get scholarships with stipends?
Yes. Some programmes offer funding to undergraduate students.
Türkiye Scholarships, for example, provides funding opportunities at bachelor’s degree level.
Other governments and universities also offer undergraduate scholarships, although many high-profile international programmes focus on postgraduate education.
4. Can I get a fully funded scholarship without IELTS?
Yes, some scholarship programmes and universities accept applicants without IELTS.
However, this does not mean that English-language requirements are automatically waived.
Some universities accept alternative English qualifications, previous education in English or other approved evidence of proficiency.
Always check the language requirements of your chosen institution.
5. How much is the monthly stipend for international students?
The amount varies by scholarship and country.
For example:
- Erasmus Mundus provides a contribution of €1,400 per month.
- Türkiye Scholarships lists different monthly allowances for undergraduate, master’s and doctoral students.
- DAAD publishes programme-dependent scholarship payments.
- Chevening provides a monthly living allowance based on the study location.
These amounts should not be compared without considering local accommodation and living costs.
6. Can I work while receiving an international scholarship?
It depends on the scholarship agreement and immigration rules of the host country.
Some scholarships restrict additional employment, while others permit limited work under specific conditions.
You should review your scholarship contract and student visa conditions before accepting employment.
7. Do fully funded scholarships cover accommodation and flights?
Some do, but not all.
Australia Awards, for example, provides return airfare and an establishment allowance, while Türkiye Scholarships includes accommodation and flight support under its published benefits.
Other scholarships may provide a living stipend from which students pay their own accommodation and travel costs.
Always read the complete funding package.
8. Are study abroad scholarships available for Nigerians?
Yes. Nigerian applicants can access several international scholarship programmes, subject to individual nationality and eligibility requirements.
Potential opportunities include Erasmus Mundus, Chevening, DAAD, Türkiye Scholarships and eligible World Bank programmes.
However, not every international scholarship accepts applicants from every country.
Check the official participating-country list before applying.
9. When should I start applying for 2027 scholarships?
You should start preparing as early as possible.
Some 2027 scholarship application windows open during 2026, while others open between January and May 2027.
For example, the World Bank’s 2027 scholarship application windows begin in January and March 2027. Türkiye Scholarships generally accepts applications between January and February.
Check individual programme announcements rather than assuming all scholarships follow the same calendar.
10. Do I need an admission letter before applying for a scholarship?
It depends on the scholarship.
Some programmes require you to secure university admission before submitting a scholarship application.
Others allow you to apply for the scholarship and university admission through a combined process.
For example, the World Bank Graduate Scholarship Programme requires admission to an eligible participating master’s programme before the scholarship application can be completed.
Read the application instructions carefully.
Final Thoughts: Apply for Study Abroad Programs with Stipends in 2026/27
Getting an international education does not necessarily mean paying all your tuition and living expenses yourself.
Several governments, universities and international organisations provide scholarships that help qualified students pursue undergraduate, master’s and doctoral degrees abroad.
The opportunities discussed in this guide include Erasmus Mundus, Chevening, DAAD, Australia Awards, Türkiye Scholarships, the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Programme and university-funded research scholarships.
However, you should not approach scholarship applications casually.
Identify programmes that match your academic background, verify their funding conditions, prepare your documents and submit applications before their respective deadlines.
If you are planning to study abroad in 2027, start preparing now. Waiting until applications open to collect your transcripts, write your motivation letter and request recommendation letters can put you at a disadvantage.
Most importantly, use official scholarship websites to confirm eligibility and submit your applications. A genuine scholarship opportunity should be verifiable through its sponsoring government, university or organisation.
Your next international education opportunity could be closer than you think. Start researching, prepare your documents and apply strategically.