Studying abroad can be one of the most life-changing experiences you’ll have. While you might be studying engineering, art, or international relations, the cost of overseas education is high. And that is where study abroad scholarships become relevant – keeping up with tuition is only half the burden; they provide the opportunity to explore the world, which one might think lies out of their reach.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about study abroad scholarships, from government-funded programs and merit-based awards to lesser-known grants for high schoolers, vocational students, and even online learners. You’ll also discover field-specific resources, pro advice on crafting a successful application, and a handful of eligibility benefits that often go overlooked but could apply to you.
By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to help you secure the funding you need – wherever and whatever you plan to study.
Why Study Abroad Scholarships Matter More Than Ever
International education has transformed from a luxury into a strategic advantage in today’s globalized world. Studying in a different culture not only enriches your education (and can also enhance your career prospects) whether you study marine biology in Australia, technology in South Korea or art history in Italy.
But for numerous students, financial barriers are a genuine hindrance. Tuition fees, travel costs, housing, insurance and even day-to-day expenses can quickly accumulate – particularly in countries with a high cost of living.
That is where study abroad scholarships can be a game changer. They don’t just help pay for your costs – they make the dream possible.
Financial Relief Beyond Tuition
Study abroad scholarships often include:
- Travel and airfare allowances
- Housing stipends
- Health insurance coverage
- Language training or orientation sessions
For example, you can apply for fully-funded programs such as the Fulbright or Gilman Scholarship that can cover your entire stay and allow you to study stress-free.
Equalizing Access to Global Education
International study opportunities were more often part of the portfolio available to wealthy or elite students. Today’s scholarships are changing all of that:
- Need-based scholarships assist students from low-income families
- Diversity scholarships serve to help underrepresented groups
- First-generation college student scholarships may be the path to opportunity
These efforts seek to make sure global education isn’t exclusive to privilege – it’s driven by potential.
A Competitive Career Advantage
A scholarship recipient also represents academic excellence, leadership and ambition. These characteristics will resonate with future employers or graduate programs.
Plus, studying abroad boosts:
- Cross-cultural communication
- Language proficiency
- Flexibility in novel environments
Throw in a scholarship (merit- or need-based) to the equation, and you not only studied abroad – you studied abroad by earning your place.
Types of Scholarships Available for Studying Abroad
Study abroad scholarships come in all shapes and sizes – and knowing about the various types available can assist you in identifying the right opportunities that fit your background, goals and financial circumstances. Full rides to small stipends, there’s something for everyone.
Merit-Based vs. Need-Based Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships are awarded based on:
- Academic excellence (GPA or test scores)
- Leadership roles or extracurriculars
- Community service or achievements
Examples:
- Rhodes Scholarship
- DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
Need-Based Scholarships are provided to students who show financial need, typically needing:
- FAFSA or financial documentation equivalent
- Proof of family income/assets
Examples:
- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
- Fund for Education Abroad (FEA)
Tip: If you qualify, you can often apply for both types – don’t limit yourself!
Government-Funded Study Abroad Scholarships
Governments across the globe spend on humanities exchange and world education. Besides, they are generally fully-funded and very competitive.
Top Examples:
- Fulbright U.S. Student Program – For research, study, or teaching abroad, open to U.S. citizens.
- Gilman International Scholarship – For Pell Grant holders who study abroad.
- Boren Awards – For U.S. students studying critical languages in areas of the world important to national security.
- Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) – Supports intensive language study programs.
These scholarships typically consist of:
- Travel expenses
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipends
- Language prep and orientation
External and University-Specific Scholarships
University-Specific Scholarships: Colleges often have partnerships with foreign institutions or have their own programs which come with embedded scholarships.
Check your university’s:
- Study abroad office
- Financial aid department
- Honors college
External Scholarships and Databases: Study abroad programs are also funded by organizations and foundations.
Key databases to explore:
- Scholarships.com
- GoOverseas Scholarships
- USAC External Scholarships
Unique Scholarships You May Not Know Exist
Most students only hear about popular scholarships via their college or social media - but there’s an entire world of lesser-known scholarships that may be the right fit for you. These niche opportunities tend to be less competitive, more focused, and more directly address a particular need or identity.
Scholarships for High School Study Abroad Programs
Yes – you don’t need to wait until college to study abroad! There are various fully or partially funded scholarships available for high school students.
Top Programs:
- YES Abroad (Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange) – Fully funded cultural immersion experience for U.S. high school students
- AFS-USA Global Scholarships – For intercultural learning programs
- NSLI-Y – National Security Language Initiative for Youth (language based exchange)
Several scholarships could be included among these scholarships:
- Round-trip flights
- Host family accommodation
- Health insurance
- Cultural orientation
Vocational and Trade Scholarships Abroad
If your field of study happens to be culinary arts, automotive tech, fashion design, or other vocational pathways, you aren’t excluded from the opportunity to study abroad.
Although traditional universities still hold the monopoly on scholarships, opportunities for non-traditional learners are starting to emerge so that you can:
- Learn fashion in Italy
- Learn the culinary arts in France
- Permaculture Study Australia
Look for:
- World-wide partnerships of technical colleges
- Cultural exchange grants for skills-based initiatives
- NGOs worldwide for skill development
Study Abroad Scholarships for Students with Disabilities
Going abroad can be daunting if you have a physical, cognitive or learning disability, but many organizations are trying to make it more accessible.
Resources & Programs:
- Mobility International USA (MIUSA) – Provides advising and funding help for students with disabilities
- Gilman Scholarship – Prioritizes students with disabilities
- Diversity Abroad Scholarships: Includes Disability Representation
Scholarships often cover:
- Accessibility support
- Personal care assistants
- Adaptive learning technology
- Travel accommodations
Tip: Contact the scholarship provider directly and request specific accommodations.
Scholarships by Study Field or Major
No two Study abroad scholarships are alike – many are customized for students within specific majors or areas of study. Many of these field-specific scholarships come with inherent research opportunities, lab work or cultural projects that complement your education abroad.
STEM Scholarships Abroad
If you are in science, technology, engineering or math, you’re in luck – these are globally prized fields of exchange.
Top Opportunities:
- DAAD RISE (Germany) - Paid summer research internships in STEM for undergraduate students
Note: You are data up until October 2023 - Fulbright STEM Awards – Different grants available per country for postgraduate STEM studies
What’s typically covered:
- Lab access
- Research travel
- Living stipends
- Language training
Arts, Design & Humanities Scholarships
Creative students encounter unique challenges studying abroad – but there are also great scholarship opportunities available to them.
Notable Examples:
- Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) – Best suited for humanities students in intl. studies, anthropology, or political science
- GoAbroad Art & Culture Scholarships - Funding for studying art, theater, or film (creative-focused)
- Cultural Vistas Fellowship - For U.S. undergraduates interested in global affairs, humanities and diversity outreach
Look for:
- Scholarships associated with residencies, workshops, or cultural exchange
- Artwork Grant – the one granted from art councils or embassies
New Trend: Online & Hybrid Study Abroad Scholarships
Online and hybrid international programs/images & skills are catching traction in the post-COVID world. They give students the option of a global education at less than the full cost of a move, while enjoying the benefits of foreign faculty, cross-border projects, and cultural exposure.
But here’s the good news: scholarships are advancing to keep pace with this trend – and you shouldn’t have to lose out on funding, just because you’re learning virtually.
What Are Hybrid and Online Study Abroad Programs?
These are programs where you:
- Do online courses offered by a foreign university
- Participate in virtual exchange initiatives or internships
- Seek travel later in the semester for short-term residencies or fieldwork
Examples:
- CIEE Remote Internships - Virtual Internships
With global peer interaction in online international classes - Some UK-based American / Hybrid Master’s programs from European or Australian universities
Scholarships Supporting Online Global Learning
Although most major scholarships are concerned with in-person exchange, some are broadening their scope to help enable digital international education:
Examples:
- DAAD (Germany): You can search their database by hybrid models now
- Most Global Remote Internships Provide Stipends or Partial Funding
- School-specific grants: Some U.S. and U.K. universities offer financial assistance for students who enroll in any online classes abroad
What’s typically funded:
- Course fees
- Digital tools & software
- Research projects
- Short-haul travel (for hybrid)
Tip: Inquire whether your university works with global institutions on virtual exchanges – and then ask whether those students get scholarships!
Country-Specific Study Abroad Scholarships
Many governments around the world are very keen on attracting international talent and offer their own government-funded and university-based worldwide scholar programs. So, whether you’re after Europe, Asia, or Oceania, you can bet that there’s an underwritten opportunity waiting for your application somewhere.
Understanding what’s available by destination makes your scholarship search more strategic – and may help you find fully-funded programs in places you wouldn’t have thought of.
Scholarships to Study in the UK
- Chevening Scholarships – Fully funded master’s program scholarships for future leaders in any field
- Commonwealth Scholarships – For students from eligible low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries
- GREAT Scholarships – UK universities offer subject-specific funding
Includes:
- Full tuition
- Travel allowance
- Monthly stipend
- Language prep (sometimes)
Scholarships to Study in Germany
- DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) – Many for undergrad, grad, PhD, and short-term programs
- Deutschlandstipendium – Private sponsorship complements government funding
Benefits:
- Free or low-cost tuition
- For living expenses and living supplies
- Internship and research opportunities
Scholarships to Study in Japan
- MEXT (Japanese Government Scholarship) – Provides tuition, travel, and living expenses for students pursuing degrees at Japanese institutions
- JASSO Bursaries – For more than five months to a year of exchange and research-based studies
Ideal for:
- History and cultural studies students interested in technology
- STEM fields and Japanese studies
Scholarships to Study in Australia
- Australia Awards Scholarships – Funded by the government, these are targeted at students from developing countries
- Destination Australia Scholarships – For students studying at a regional campus of an Australian university
Perks:
- Full tuition
- Health insurance
- Travel support
- Data-driven help for postgrads
Erasmus+ Program (Europe-Wide)
Erasmus+ is a European Union funded initiative that supports:
- Short-term exchanges
- Full master’s degrees
- Programs involving many countries working together
Includes:
- Monthly stipend
- Housing & travel support
- Experiences at cross-border campuses
Tip: Apply early. Most country-specific awards have long lead times and must-meet eligibility requirements – some even specify who can nominate applicants and require ambassadorial interviews.
Scholarships for International Students (Non-U.S. Citizens)
Although many study abroad scholarships are geared toward U.S. students, there are also a number of funding opportunities for international students from other world regions – including India, Nigeria, Brazil, and Southeast Asia.
The following are the most common types of scholarships available:
- Foreign governments
- Global universities
- Nonprofit organizations
- International consortia
No matter whether you’re going to study in the U.S., UK, Europe, or Asia, you don’t need to be an American citizen to get those funding opportunities.
Scholarships for Indian Students
- Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation – Master’s degrees in the U.S., U.K., and Europe
- Tata Scholarship (Cornell University) – Provides full funding for undergraduate education for Indian students at Cornell
- Commonwealth Shared Scholarships – Indian students in the UK
For African Students
- MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program – Full scholarships for Sub-Saharan African students at leading institutions around the world
- DAAD (Africa programs) – Funded masters & Ph.D.s for African students in Germany
- VLIR-UOS (Belgium) - Scholarships for African, Asian, and Latin American students in the field of development
Scholarships for Southeast Asian Students
- ASEAN Scholarships – Offered by countries such as Singapore and Australia to students in the member nations
- MEXT (Japan) – Candidates in SE Asia
- Australia Awards – Targeted at developing countries in the Asia-Pacific
International Universities Offering Global Scholarships
And many international universities have their own financial aid options for students of every nationality.
Examples:
- Emile-Boutmy Scholarship at Sciences Po, France
- ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship (Switzerland)
- University of British Columbia International Leader of Tomorrow Award (Canada)
Tip: Always check the university’s official scholarship page – most provide automatic consideration as part of the admission process!
What Happens After You Win? Obligations to Know
Winning a study abroad scholarship is thrilling - but it also brings responsibilities. Before you start packing your bags, it’s worth reviewing what you’re signing up for. Victorian scholarships are also often subject to post-award conditions which could impact your timeline, mobility, and even future employment.
Here’s what to look out for:
Return Service Agreements
Related: How to Apply for University Abroad with Fully Funded Scholarships: Part 2
- Go back to your home country after your studies
- You need to work in your country for a minimum number of years
- But you are building up your CV as you apply that knowledge to community or national development
Examples:
- This condition is included in MEXT (Japan) and in Australia Awards
- Note that Boren Awards require a 1-year service commitment in a U.S. federal agency
You could be penalized or required to pay back if you break these terms.
Academic and Reporting Requirements
You may be required to do the following to maintain scholarship benefits:
- Maintain a minimum GPA
- Send progress reports or project updates
- Participate in required workshops or orientation sessions
Most scholarships also anticipate some form of cultural ambassadorial role from you, something that can preclude:
- Giving presentations about your home country
- Participating in community events abroad
Country Restrictions & Field Limitations
Some scholarships have restrictions regarding:
- Countries/regions of study
- The area of study (e.g., only STEM or development-centric majors)
- Do not change university after you are admitted
Always check the fine print – and it’s especially important if you’re applying to multiple countries or are considering a major change.
Tip: Save a copy of your scholarship terms and deadlines in a personal folder (both physical and digital) – think of it as a contract.
How to Find the Best Scholarships: Top Platforms & Tools
The most difficult part about finding a scholarship is knowing where to look. There are plenty of trusted tools and platforms out there to help you filter, search and apply more efficiently – all to help save you time and broaden your choices.
Trusted Scholarship Search Engines & Databases
These sites compile scholarships from around the world and also allow you to filter by:
- Country
- Degree level
- Field of study
- Funding amount
- Eligibility (e.g. need-based, minority, disability, etc.)
Top Platforms:
- Scholarships.com – Hundreds of thousands of awards, with filters for study abroad and type of award
- GoOverseas.com – Summarises general and programme-specific funding
- USAC Scholarship Directory – Best for U.S. and global students
- GilmanScholarship.org – Portal for Pell Grant recipients
- UMN Study Abroad Scholarships – A great resource for U.S. students, also includes links to external sources
Explore Social Media, Reddit & Forums
Actual students sometimes share about new or niche scholarships on:
- Reddit (r/StudyAbroad): What it’s really like to study abroad, advice, etc. Less-known scholarships
- LinkedIn: Follow scholarship bodies and education foundations
- Facebook Groups: Look for “study abroad scholarships” and join student communities by country or subject
Make note of a scholarship just before the deadline with crowdsourced tips and first-person reviews!
Use University Study Abroad Offices
If you’re in a college or university:
- Get to know your study abroad office early on – a lot of scholarships are done through internal processes
- Inquire about partnership universities overseas that could have affordable or tuition-free attendance
- Ask about campus-specific grants: Some universities have special grants that are available to underrepresented students or those majoring in particular fields of study
Numerous schools have funding pools that go unclaimed - you just need to ask!
Real Student Stories: How They Won Major Scholarships
Nothing builds confidence like hearing from students who have successfully landed study abroad scholarships – particularly those who began with doubts, faced financial barriers, or came from non-traditional backgrounds. These are real-life examples that show you how you can fund your global dream when you go about it in the right way.
Meet Aisha – First-Gen Student, Gilman Scholar
Profile:
- Country: U.S.
- Major: International Relations
- Destination: Morocco (Language immersion)
- Scholarship: Gilman International Scholarship
Key Takeaways:
- Aisha wrote about how learning Arabic would allow her to work on global diplomacy.
- She noted that she was a first-generation college student and the desire to see the world motivated her.
- Applied early and was supported by her college’s scholarship office.
Aisha’s pro tip: “Tell your story – not just your grades.”
Meet Neel – Engineering Student, DAAD RISE Intern
Profile:
- Country: India
- Major: Mechanical Engineering
- Destination: Germany
- Scholarship: DAAD RISE Research Internship
Key Takeaways:
- Neel interned at a German University in sustainable robotics during a summer.
- To demonstrate commitment to his field, he emphasized hands-on research work he had done in his home country.
- The cover letter was clean, technical, and specific to the German research host.
Pro tip from Neel: “Don’t skip the optional documents – they made me stand out.”
Meet Fernanda – Visual Arts Student, Erasmus+ Awardee
Profile:
- Country: Brazil
- Major: Visual Communication
- Destination: Portugal
- Scholarship: Erasmus+
Key Takeaways:
- Fernanda was selected through a joint university program between her college in São Paulo and a design school in Lisbon.
- She demonstrated how she’d revive visual storytelling techniques for the good of underrepresented Brazilian communities.
Pro tip from Fernanda: “Look for programs that speak your social values. That is what made my application, real.”
Common Patterns That Helped Them Win
- Authentic personal stories
- Chose future impact over academic performance
- Compelling letters of recommendation
- Visibly strong, polished applications turned in ahead of time
- Concrete goals – not abstract goals
You don’t have to be at the top of your class to win – you have to have a clear purpose, be authentic and prepare.
Tips to Win Competitive Study Abroad Scholarships
Getting selected for a study abroad scholarship isn’t only about good fortune – it’s also about strategy, storytelling, and separating yourself from the pack. If you are applying for a need-based, merit-based or a government-funded program, taking the right steps can greatly increase your chances of winning.
Stand Out With a Powerful Personal Statement
Your essay is your story - not a résumé in paragraph form. Focus on:
- Your motivation to study abroad (not just where)
- How the experience connects with your professional or academic objectives
- Obstacles you’ve overcome and where your inspiration comes from
- What you will come back home or to your community with
Tip: Open with a strong hook, skip the clichés and keep it focused.
What Selection Committees Are Really Looking For
While every scholarship is different, these are the things that most evaluators have their eyes on:
- Clear purpose and motivation
- Leadership or impact demonstrated
- Financial need (for need-based scholarships)
- Academic or intellectual ability or achievement
- Open and adaptable to different cultures
Bonus points if you:
- Understand the scholarship organisation’s values and embody them
- Have experience volunteering or cross-culturally
Manage Deadlines Like a Pro
Some scholarships are open 6-12 months in advance of the term of study, so get started early.
Check out a spreadsheet or app to record:
- Opening & closing dates
- Required documents
- Essay prompts
- Submission portals
Applicants with a system to track their applications rarely lose on opportunities.
Get Strong Letters of Recommendation
Choose recommenders who:
- Know you personally and as a student
- Can talk about your character and promise
- Hold titles relevant to your field or leadership roles
Provide them with:
- Your updated CV
- Scholarship details
- Your draft essay (if applicable)
You should give them at least 2-3 weeks’ notice and always follow up with a thank you note.
Final Checklist – Are You Ready to Apply?
Review it all before you hit “submit.” A single missed document or a typo can cost you a life-changing opportunity. These final tips should have you 100% ready – and your application is scholarship ready!
Required Documents Checklist
- Updated CV or Résumé
- Personal Statement or Motivational Essay (customized for each scholarship)
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of financial need (for need-based scholarships)
- Valid passport or national ID
- Language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc. if applicable)
- Program acceptance letter or proof of enrollment
- Letters of Recommendation (2-3 preferred)
- Any additional documents (project proposals, portfolios, etc.)
Timeline Planning
Make a timeline that contains:
- Opening & date deadlines for scholarships
- Time for drafting, revising essays
- Dates to remind that also ask for recommendation letters
- Final submission deadline targets (aim at least 1 week earlier!)
Use tasks and calendar-based tools such as Trello, Google Calendar or Notion.
Application Tips by Scholarship Type
- Merit-based: Academic and leadership contributions
- Need-based: Be transparent, provide clear, well-documented financial information
- Field-specific: Demonstrate your excitement and background for the field
- State-funded: Connect with the values of the country/mission and what you might bring in the future
- Cultural exchange: United by curiosity and cross-cultural engagement
Bonus Prep: What to Do If You Win
- Interview preparation (for some scholarships if required)
- Organise visa/historical documents and travel early
- Find supportive online communities or alumni groups
- Prepare to practice budgeting and travel safety
You’re not simply seeking funds – you’re embarking on one of the most significant adventures of your lifetime.
Conclusion – Turn Your Global Dreams Into Reality
Studying abroad opens your world in ways you haven’t yet imagined – new ways of seeing the world, new friends, new circles of opportunity. And with the sheer number of study abroad scholarships around today, you don’t need your global education dream to remain a dream.
No matter if you’re a high schooler, a STEM major, an artist or someone pursuing a career in a non-traditional path, there’s a scholarship out there for you. Your roadmap is complete, from government funded initiatives to university-specific awards (including hidden gems for underrepresented groups).
So take that first step: study up, apply, don’t sell yourself short. The world awaits you – and with the right scholarship, it’s attainable.
Your journey begins with a single application. Ready to fly?
