Study Abroad: An Overview of Global University Scholarships
Studying abroad has become a coveted goal for many students worldwide across various educational stages, whether it’s to attain a bachelor’s degree or pursue further education at the master’s or doctoral level. The allure lies in the quality of education abroad, particularly in Europe, America, and Canada. However, the high costs associated with studying overseas often pose a significant challenge for aspiring scholars.
In light of these challenges, numerous students seek fully-funded or partially-funded scholarships to support their academic pursuits. These scholarships are offered by governmental and non-governmental institutions as well as universities in different countries. Let’s delve deeper into some of the prominent scholarship opportunities available as of 2019:
European Union:
Erasmus+:
As the EU’s flagship program for education, training, youth, and sport, Erasmus+ offers a wide range of opportunities for students, staff, and institutions to study, work, and collaborate across Europe. From short-term exchanges to full degree courses, Erasmus+ fosters international cooperation and mobility in higher education.
Germany:
Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD):
The German Academic Exchange Service is renowned for its extensive scholarship programs, offering support to international students, researchers, and academic staff. From study scholarships for graduate students to research grants for doctoral candidates, DAAD promotes academic exchange and collaboration between Germany and the rest of the world.
Heinrich Böll Foundation:
Founded by the German Green Party, the Heinrich Böll Foundation offers scholarships to students and doctoral candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic merit and a commitment to green values. These scholarships support studies in various fields, including political science, sociology, and environmental studies, aiming to empower future leaders in sustainable development.
United Kingdom:
Chevening:
The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s international awards scheme aimed at developing global leaders. Offering fully-funded scholarships for one-year master’s degrees in any subject at any UK university, Chevening seeks to empower individuals with the skills and networks needed to drive positive change in their home countries and beyond.
Hungary:
Stipendium Hungaricum:
The Hungarian government’s scholarship program, Stipendium Hungaricum, provides opportunities for international students to pursue full degree studies in Hungary in a wide range of academic fields. With tuition-free education, monthly stipends, and other benefits, Stipendium Hungaricum aims to promote Hungary as a destination for high-quality higher education and intercultural exchange.
Russia:
Russian Government Scholarships:
The Russian government offers scholarships to international students for undergraduate, master’s, and postgraduate studies in Russian universities. These scholarships cover tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend, providing opportunities for students to immerse themselves in Russian culture and academia.
Turkey:
Türkiye Scholarships:
Established by the Turkish government, Türkiye Scholarships offers full scholarships to international students from all around the world to study in Turkey. With a wide range of programs available in Turkish universities, Türkiye Scholarships aims to promote Turkey as a center of excellence in education and research while fostering international cooperation and cultural exchange.
Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development:
Academic Excellence Scholarships:
The Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development offers Academic Excellence Scholarships to outstanding students from Arab countries. These scholarships support undergraduate and graduate studies in various fields, empowering talented individuals to contribute to the development of their communities and the Arab region as a whole.
China:
Chinese Government Scholarship:
As one of the largest scholarship programs in the world, the Chinese Government Scholarship offers full scholarships to international students to study in China. Covering tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses, this scholarship program aims to promote mutual understanding and friendship between China and the rest of the world through education and cultural exchange.
Australia:
Australia Awards:
The Australian government’s scholarship program for international students from developing countries, offering opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate studies as well as vocational education and training.
Canada:
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships:
A prestigious scholarship program offered by the Canadian government to attract and retain world-class doctoral students and establish Canada as a global center of excellence in research and higher education.
France:
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program:
Offered by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program provides opportunities for international students to pursue master’s and doctoral degrees at French higher education institutions.
Japan:
MEXT Scholarship:
The Japanese government’s scholarship program for international students, offering opportunities for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies in various fields at Japanese universities.
New Zealand:
New Zealand Scholarships:
Offered by the New Zealand government, the New Zealand scholarships support students from developing countries to study undergraduate or postgraduate programs in New Zealand universities and technical colleges.
Switzerland:
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships:
Offered by the Swiss government through the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students, these scholarships support postgraduate studies in Switzerland at the master’s or doctoral level.
United States:
Fulbright Program:
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, the Fulbright Program offers opportunities for international students, scholars, and professionals to undertake research, study, and teaching in the United States.
Netherlands:
Orange Knowledge Programme:
Formerly known as the Netherlands Fellowship Programmes (NFP), this scholarship program is funded by the Dutch government and offers opportunities for professionals and students from selected countries to study in the Netherlands.
South Korea:
Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP):
Offered by the Korean government, this scholarship program provides opportunities for international students to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees at Korean universities.
India:
Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Scholarships:
Offered by the Government of India, these scholarships support international students to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies in Indian universities and colleges.
Scholarships for Women:
It’s noteworthy that several governmental and non-governmental institutions are dedicated to empowering women in both developing and developed nations by providing scholarships across all fields of study, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Some of the notable scholarships exclusively for women can be found here.
These scholarships not only alleviate financial burdens but also pave the way for a diverse and inclusive academic environment. They serve as a beacon of hope for talented individuals who aspire to contribute to their communities and the world at large through education.
In conclusion, while the pursuit of education abroad may seem daunting due to financial constraints, the availability of various scholarship opportunities demonstrates that the dream of studying in prestigious institutions worldwide is within reach for those who dare to apply. These scholarships not only nurture academic excellence but also foster cross-cultural understanding and collaboration, enriching the global academic landscape. So, aspiring scholars, seize the opportunity, explore your options, and embark on your journey to academic excellence!
