Europe offers some of the world’s best universities, often with lower tuition than the UK or USA, and many governments fund international students. This guide covers the main government-backed scholarships in Europe, country by country, and how to apply.
Last checked: October 2026. Rules and deadlines change every year; always confirm on official websites.
Quick Overview
| Country / region | Scholarship | Level | Funding |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Union | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s | Master’s | Full |
| Germany | DAAD scholarships | Master’s, PhD | Full or partial |
| France | Eiffel Excellence Scholarship | Master’s, PhD | Monthly allowance plus extras |
| Netherlands | NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship) | Bachelor’s, master’s | €5,000 in first year |
| Sweden | SI Scholarship for Global Professionals | Master’s | Full |
| Denmark | Danish Government Scholarships | Bachelor’s, master’s | Tuition waiver and/or living grant |
| Hungary | Stipendium Hungaricum | Bachelor’s to PhD | Full |
| Switzerland | Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships | Research, PhD, postdoc | Full |
Erasmus Mundus (EU)
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programmes are run by groups of European universities, usually with study in two or more countries. Each programme selects its own scholarship holders, who receive funding for participation costs, travel and living. Apply directly to the programme; deadlines are usually between October and January.
Germany: DAAD
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers many scholarships, including for development-related postgraduate courses and doctoral research. Many German public universities charge little or no tuition, so living-cost support goes a long way. Use the DAAD scholarship database to find options for your country and field.
France: Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
France’s flagship government scholarship for master’s and PhD students. You apply through the French institution where you want to study, which nominates candidates to Campus France. Age limits apply (generally up to 29 for master’s and 35 for PhD). See our full Eiffel Scholarship guide.
Netherlands: NL Scholarship
The NL Scholarship, formerly the Holland Scholarship, gives non-EEA students €5,000 in their first year of a bachelor’s or master’s at a participating Dutch institution. It is a contribution, not full funding. Each university sets its own deadline.
Sweden: Swedish Institute
The SI Scholarship for Global Professionals fully funds master’s study for professionals with leadership experience from selected countries. See our Swedish scholarships guide.
Denmark: Danish Government Scholarships
Danish universities award government-funded scholarships to talented students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland who are enrolled in full degree programmes. Awards can be a full or partial tuition waiver, a living grant, or both. There is no central application: apply through the university, usually with your admission application.
Hungary: Stipendium Hungaricum
For students from partner countries, covering tuition, a monthly stipend, accommodation support and medical insurance from bachelor’s to PhD level. Applications are made online with a nomination from your country’s sending partner, usually opening late in the year.
Switzerland: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
For postgraduate researchers (research stays, PhD and postdoctoral) at Swiss universities. Applications go through the Swiss embassy in your country.
Portugal and Other Countries
Some countries, such as Portugal, have fewer large national scholarships for international students. Your best options there are Erasmus Mundus programmes that include the country, university-specific scholarships and fee reductions, and bilateral agreements between your government and theirs. Be wary of websites promising “fully funded, no IELTS” awards without official links.
Do I Need IELTS?
Most English-taught programmes require proof of English, but many universities accept alternatives, such as a previous degree taught in English. Check each university’s language requirements.
Conclusion
From Erasmus Mundus to national programmes in Germany, France, Sweden and beyond, Europe offers excellent funded study options. Start a year ahead, apply to several, and use official sources. For more, see our guide to fully funded scholarships by country.
