In today’s globally connected education landscape, fully funded scholarships are not just generous awards they are life-changing opportunities. These scholarships cover all major expenses, including tuition, living allowances, travel, books, and sometimes even personal expenses. As the middle of the year approaches, many believe most of these golden chances have already closed. But here’s the good news: several fully funded scholarships are still open in 2025, waiting for qualified applicants like you.
Whether you're an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral candidate, this guide highlights high-value scholarships that are still accepting applications. From prestigious government-funded programs to university-specific awards, now is your chance to grab a spot.
Why Fully Funded Scholarships Matter
Before diving into the list, let’s explore why these scholarships are crucial:
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Financial Relief: They eliminate the stress of tuition, rent, and basic expenses.
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Global Exposure: Many offer international study opportunities with cultural exchange programs.
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Career Boost: Recipients often gain access to elite institutions, professional mentorship, and post-study job placement.
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Inclusive Support: Many of these programs support students from developing countries, underrepresented communities, and first-generation college students.
Now let’s explore the best fully funded scholarships still open in 2025.
1. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
Deadline: November 2025 (applications opened in August)
The UK government’s Chevening Scholarships are still open for students from over 160 countries. This scholarship allows students to pursue a one-year Master’s degree at any UK university.
What it covers:
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Full tuition fees
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Monthly stipend
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Travel to and from the UK
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Arrival and departure allowances
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Visa costs
Who should apply:
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Future leaders, influencers, and change-makers
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Students with at least two years of work experience
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Those with a strong academic background
Pro tip: Prepare a compelling leadership story and demonstrate how your studies in the UK will help your home country.
2. DAAD EPOS Scholarships (Germany)
Deadline: Rolling deadlines by program (many close between August–October 2025)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers fully funded scholarships for postgraduate students in development-related fields. The EPOS program is especially suited for professionals from developing countries.
What’s covered:
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Full tuition
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Monthly stipend (~€934)
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Travel allowance
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Health insurance
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Preparatory German language course (optional)
Eligible fields: Public policy, engineering, sustainable development, water management, etc.
Why apply: Many top German universities are part of this initiative, with no tuition fees and globally recognized degrees.
3. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University, USA)
Deadline: October 2025
If you're aiming for a graduate degree at Stanford University, the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards in the world.
Financial coverage:
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Full tuition
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Living stipend
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Academic and travel grants
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Leadership development training
Eligibility:
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Must apply separately to a Stanford graduate program
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Open to all nationalities
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Must have earned a bachelor's degree in 2018 or later
Why it stands out: Beyond funding, the program develops global leaders through interdisciplinary study and innovation.
4. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
Deadline: Opens September 2025 (closes in December/January depending on course)
This scholarship allows outstanding applicants from outside the UK to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge.
Coverage includes:
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Full cost of studying at Cambridge
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Airfare
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Visa fees
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Family allowance (if applicable)
Who can apply:
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Non-UK citizens
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Applying for a full-time postgraduate program
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Academic excellence and leadership potential are critical
Why it’s elite: Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this program fosters global scholars with a mission to improve lives.
5. Schwarzman Scholars Program (Tsinghua University, China)
Deadline: September 2025 (for global applicants)
The Schwarzman Scholars program is designed to prepare future global leaders through a one-year Master’s in Global Affairs at Tsinghua University, Beijing.
What’s included:
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Full tuition
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Room and board
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Travel costs
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Stipend
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Cultural immersion trips
Ideal for:
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Students with leadership qualities
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Those interested in international relations, public policy, economics
Unique feature: It bridges East and West by focusing on China’s global role.
6. MEXT Japanese Government Scholarship
Deadline: Varies by country but many remain open through July 2025
The MEXT Scholarship from the Japanese government supports undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Japan.
Covers:
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Full tuition
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Monthly allowance (¥117,000+)
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Round-trip airfare
Who can apply:
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Students applying through Japanese embassies or universities
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Must pass screening and interviews
Why consider it: No prior Japanese language knowledge required for many programs. Japan offers world-class education and unique cultural experiences.
7. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Deadline: Institution nominations by November 2025
Vanier CGS supports PhD-level studies in Canadian universities, promoting Canada as a global center for research and innovation.
What’s included:
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CAD 50,000 per year for three years
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Open to Canadian and international PhD candidates
Eligibility:
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Outstanding academic performance
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Research potential
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Leadership capabilities
How to apply: Candidates must be nominated by a participating university.
8. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Deadline: Applications open August 2025 for January 2026 intake
This Swedish government scholarship supports Master’s students from eligible countries.
Coverage includes:
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Full tuition
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Monthly living allowance
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Travel grants
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Insurance
Who should apply:
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Professionals with work experience
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Demonstrated leadership and commitment to sustainability
Added value: Access to Sweden’s strong innovation ecosystem and global alumni network.
9. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (France)
Deadline: Nominations typically end in January 2026 – applications open in October 2025
While the application deadline is a few months away, preparations can begin now. French universities nominate students for this prestigious award.
Coverage:
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Tuition subsidy
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Monthly allowance (~€1,181)
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International travel
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Health insurance
For whom:
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International Master’s and PhD students in engineering, economics, law, or political science
Why apply: Study in one of Europe’s most vibrant academic cultures—with financial peace of mind.
Tips for Securing Fully Funded Scholarships
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Start Early: Research deadlines, gather documents, and begin writing personal statements well in advance.
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Focus on Fit: Tailor your application to the values and priorities of each scholarship program.
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Strong References Matter: Choose referees who know your academic and leadership strengths.
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Show Impact: Clearly explain how the scholarship will help you give back to your community or field.
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Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Don’t limit yourself—cast a wide net to maximize your chances.