Studying abroad is a dream for many students, but high tuition fees often make it difficult. The good news is that several countries offer 100% fully funded scholarships for international students. These scholarships cover tuition fees and may also include living expenses, travel, health insurance, and monthly stipends. Below is a clear guide to the top countries that provide full scholarships for deserving students.
Countries that provide 100% scholarships
Germany
Germany is one of the most popular destinations for free higher education. Most public universities do not charge tuition fees for international students, allowing them to study at world-class institutions with very low costs. Students only need to pay a small administrative or semester fee. Germany is also known for its strong focus on research, engineering, technology, and innovation.
Top Scholarships:
- DAAD Scholarships
- Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship
- Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship
Covers: Tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, and health insurance.
*Read more about scholarships in Germany
Norway
Norway offers truly tuition-free education to all international students, regardless of nationality. Public universities do not charge tuition fees, and students only pay a small semester fee. The country provides a high standard of education, modern facilities, and many English-taught postgraduate programs. Norway is especially known for research, science, and technology fields.
Top Scholarships:
- Norwegian Quota Scheme
- BI Presidential Scholarship
- NTNU Scholarships
- University of Oslo Scholarships
Sweden
Sweden offers excellent scholarship opportunities for international students through both government and university programs. The country is known for innovation, sustainability, and high-quality research. Many universities provide full or partial scholarships that support talented students from around the world. Students benefit from a strong job market and a multicultural learning environment.
Top Scholarships:
- Swedish Institute Scholarships (SISGP)
- Lund University Global Scholarship
- Chalmers IPOET Scholarships
Covers: Full tuition fees + living allowance.
Finland
Finland provides generous 100% tuition scholarships for non-EU students at both bachelor’s and master’s levels. Finnish universities are known for high-quality education, modern campuses, and innovative teaching methods. Some scholarships also include a partial living stipend. Finland is particularly strong in technology, design, engineering, and education programs.
Top Scholarships:
- Finland Government Scholarship
- University of Helsinki Scholarships
- University of Oulu Scholarship.
Covers: Full tuition fees + partial stipend.
France
France offers affordable education, but many top scholarships fully cover tuition and living costs for international students. The country is known for its strong reputation in business, arts, fashion, engineering, and political science. Scholarships offered by the government and elite institutions help deserving students study in France at little to no cost.
Top Scholarships:
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
- École Normale Supérieure Scholarship
- Emile Boutmy Scholarship (Sciences Po)
Covers: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel benefits.
Netherlands
The Netherlands is home to some of Europe’s best universities and offers generous scholarships to international students. Many fully funded programs support talented applicants in fields like engineering, business, and research. The country provides excellent education standards, diverse cultures, and strong job opportunities for graduates.
Top Scholarships:
- Holland Scholarship
- Orange Knowledge Programme
- Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship
Covers: Full tuition + monthly allowance.
Canada
Canada offers some of the most competitive scholarships for high-performing international students. While tuition fees can be high, fully funded scholarships cover academic costs, living expenses, and sometimes accommodation. Canadian universities are well known for research, innovation, safety, and multicultural student life.
Top Scholarships:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
- University of Toronto Scholarships
Covers: Tuition, living costs, books, and accommodation.
*Read more about top scholarships in Canada
Australia
Australia provides fully funded scholarships mainly for postgraduate and research-level students. These scholarships are highly competitive and offered by the government and top universities. Australia is known for high-quality education, strong research programs, and excellent employability opportunities for international students.
Top Scholarships:
- Australia Awards Scholarship
- Research Training Program (RTP)
- Monash University Scholarships
Covers: Tuition, living allowance, travel, and insurance.
*Read more about scholarships in Australia
New Zealand
New Zealand is a growing study destination offering 100% scholarships to support international students. Known for its peaceful environment and high-quality education, New Zealand provides strong academic support and practical learning opportunities. The government and universities offer funding that covers tuition, living costs, and travel.
Top Scholarships:
- New Zealand Government Scholarship
- University of Auckland Scholarships
- Victoria Tongarewa Scholarship
Covers: Tuition fees + living allowance + travel.
South Korea
South Korea is becoming a top study destination due to its excellent universities, advanced technology, and fully funded scholarships. Many programs cover tuition, living expenses, and even airfare. South Korea is especially strong in engineering, artificial intelligence, and the science fields. Students also benefit from modern campuses and global-level research facilities.
Top Scholarships:
- Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
- KAIST Scholarship
- Seoul National University Scholarship
Covers: Tuition, stipend, dormitory, and airfare.
Steps to Apply for 100% Scholarships Abroad
Step 1: Identify countries, universities, and scholarships that match your profile.
Step 2: Check eligibility requirements
Step 3: Prepare your checklist of documents (academic transcripts, passport, English test scores, SOP, LORs, and resume).
Step 4: Write a strong Statement of Purpose
Step 5: Apply directly to the university or government portal
Step 6: Attend interviews if required
Step 7: Selected students receive an offer letter or scholarship confirmation.
What Are the Requirements to Get a 100% Scholarship?
To qualify for a fully funded scholarship, students generally need:
- Strong academic performance (70% and above)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
- A powerful Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Leadership activities, internships, or volunteer work
- A strong resume with achievements
- Good communication and interview skills
- Sometimes research proposals (for master’s/PhD)
Different countries may have their own additional conditions, but the above requirements apply to most full scholarships.
Benefits of Studying on a Fully Funded Scholarship
- No tuition fees or reduced financial burden
- Chance to study at world-ranked universities
- Monthly living stipend in many cases
- Access to internships and research opportunities
- Boosts your global career path
- Exposure to international cultures
- Helps build a strong professional network
Tips to Get a 100% Scholarship Abroad
- Maintain high academic scores
- Early applicants have higher chances of selection.
- Build a strong profile
- Score well in IELTS/PTE
- Write an excellent SOP
- Choose countries with more fully funded options
- Apply to multiple scholarships
Conclusion
Many countries offer 100% scholarships that help students study abroad without financial burden. Nations like Germany, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and South Korea stand out for their generous funding options. With strong academics and proper preparation, students can secure these fully funded scholarships and build a successful global career.
*Willing to study abroad? Contact Y-axis for complete guidance and end-to-end support