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Top Scholarships in Europe for 2026

Anjali Bisht

October 9, 2025

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Dreaming of joining prestigious study abroad programs in Europe but worried about costs? You’re not alone! With tuition fees rising and living costs climbing, finding scholarships in Europe can mean the difference between a dream deferred and a future transformed. This guide is crafted as your friendly mentor, helping you discover, apply to, and win the best scholarships in Europe for international students in 2025 and 2026. Whether you’re aiming for a Master’s or PhD, there’s a fully funded path in Europe just waiting for your application.

Why Apply for Scholarships in Europe?

• Europe’s top study abroad programs are globally respected for academic quality and innovation.
• Over 1 million international students currently choose Europe each year, with numbers rising steadily.
• More than €2 billion in scholarships are awarded annually across the EU to support talented students from all backgrounds.
• Fully funded opportunities cover not just tuition, but also living costs, travel, insurance, and cultural experiences – making study abroad programs in Europe accessible to a wider group.

What Are the Best Scholarships in Europe?

Here’s a breakdown of the most prestigious, fully funded scholarships in Europe for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 intakes:

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Apply for Scholarships in Europe?

1. Choose Your Program: Research accredited universities and eligible courses.
2. Meet Eligibility: Check academic requirements, nationality restrictions, and language tests (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
3. Prepare Documents: Usually includes transcripts, degree certificates, CV, reference letters, and a motivation statement.
4. Apply Early: Deadlines are strict, some scholarships open nearly a year before courses start.
5. Submit Applications: Via official portals or directly to universities. Many programs require a simultaneous admission and scholarship application.

Can I Apply for More Than One Scholarship?

Absolutely! You can and should apply for multiple opportunities, as long as you meet the individual requirements for each. Some scholarships (like Erasmus Mundus) cannot be held simultaneously with others, so be ready to prioritize if you’re selected for more than one.

What’s the Acceptance Rate?

• Erasmus Mundus: 2–3% for the most competitive programs.
• Swedish Institute: 1–2%.
• DAAD, VLIR-UOS, and Swiss Scholarships: acceptance ranges from 5–10% depending on program and country.

Scholarships in Europe: Detailed Guide by Country

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarship (EU-wide)

• What: Fully funded scholarships for joint Master’s (and a few PhDs), with study across at least two European countries.
• Funding: Full tuition, €1,400/month stipend, travel, insurance.
• Who can apply: Graduates from any country; specific eligibility varies per program.
• Key facts: Over 130 programs; highly interdisciplinary; 2026 applications open Dec 2025–Mar 2026; requires one application to each chosen program.
• Pro tip: Focus on motivation letter and show intercultural adaptability for maximum impact.

DAAD Scholarship (Germany)

• What: Germany’s flagship scholarship for Master’s and doctoral programs.
• Funding: Tuition, €934 (Master’s) or €1,200 (PhD)/month, travel, health, insurance.
• Who can apply: Students from developing/newly industrialized countries with at least 2 years’ work experience.
• Key facts: Covers most fields; apply direct via DAAD portal or university partners; deadlines vary by university, some start as early as October 2025.

Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (France)

• What: Prestigious award for top Master’s and PhD candidates.
• Funding: Master’s (€1,200/month), PhD (€2,100/month), airfare, health, housing support.
• Who can apply: Non-French nationals under 30 (Master’s) or 35 (PhD).
• Key facts: University nominates candidates; applications open Oct–Jan, results in April.

Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (Sweden)

• What: For future global leaders aiming for a Master’s.
• Funding: Tuition, SEK 12,000/month living costs, SEK 15,000 travel grant, insurance.
• Who can apply: Citizens of select developing countries, with demonstrated leadership and work experience.
• Key facts: February deadline; about 300–400 awards per year; highly competitive.

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)

• What: For Master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral researchers in science, arts, and more.
• Funding: Tuition, CHF 1,920/month, housing, health insurance, research funding.
• Who can apply: Early-career researchers from 180+ countries.
• Key facts: Must have a Swiss professor/research supervisor; deadline in Nov 2025.

Italian MAECI Scholarship

• What: Grants for Master’s/PhD study at top Italian universities.
• Funding: Tuition, €900/month, health insurance.
• Who can apply: Eligible foreign students and Italians living abroad.
• Key facts: Covers all academic fields; deadline May 16, 2025.

Other Major Scholarships

• Holland Scholarship: For Bachelor’s/Master’s, €5,000 one-time grant.
• Danish Government Scholarship: Tuition plus partial living allowance.
• VLIR-UOS (Belgium): For certain Master’s, especially in development, full coverage plus travel, insurance.

All About Study Abroad Programs: The 5Ws + H

What Study Abroad Programs Are Available?

Europe offers thousands of accredited study abroad programs, from arts to STEM, law, and health sciences, across public and private universities that rank among the world’s best.

Why Consider Scholarships in Europe?

• Europe’s top scholarships not only cover costs but help jumpstart international careers, provide unrivaled networks, and nurture global leadership.
• Many programs integrate industry internships, language course opportunities, and hands-on project work.

Who Are Scholarships For?

• Open to international students from almost every country.
• Eligibility may be based on academic merit, nationality, field, or leadership qualities.

Where Are the Top Destinations?

• The UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, Italy, Denmark, and Belgium lead on numbers of scholarships awarded.

When to Apply?

• Most application cycles open 9-12 months before studies begin, so planning ahead is crucial.

How to Succeed in Your Applications?

• Craft a compelling story: Motivation and clarity in personal statements stand out.
• Show leadership by highlighting roles in university, community, or professional settings.
• Meet every deadline and double-check documents for accuracy.

Quick Cost Comparisons: Scholarships in Europe

Hot Questions About European Scholarships

Visa Questions

• Can I work during studies? Most countries allow 10–20 hours of part-time work per week on a student visa.
• Are visas guaranteed for scholarship holders? A scholarship strengthens your visa case, but visa procedures must be followed closely in each country.

Hidden Costs

• Application fees, insurance, and housing deposits may not be covered, read scholarship terms carefully.
• Budget for initial outlay before the stipend arrives; join scholarship recipient groups online for real-time tips.

Course Selection & Language of Instruction

• Over 1,800 English-taught Master’s and hundreds of English PhDs are available in Europe.
• Local language courses are often free or heavily subsidized for scholarship holders.

Application Timeline: Your Essential Steps

1. Start research 12 months ahead: Identify 4–6 target programs.
2. Assemble transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency.
3. Apply for program admission and for the scholarship, simultaneously, in most cases.
4. Prepare for video/table interviews if shortlisted.
5. Accept award offer, secure visa, and get ready for your European adventure!

Final Thoughts: Your Path to Study Abroad in Europe Starts Here

Winning a scholarship in Europe isn’t just about free tuition, it’s a ticket to global citizenship, powerful networks, and personal transformation. Every year, thousands of dedicated students rise to the challenge and win. With each application, you open a new door, and every story starts with a decision: Why not yours? If you’re even considering study abroad programs, now is the time to research, connect, and apply. Keep exploring our site for more country guides, application resources, and hands-on advice.

Are you ready to change your future? Start your European journey today, your scholarship adventure awaits!

For personal support, connect with our experts or join our global student community for real-time answers and encouragement!