Best Master’s Scholarships for International Students

If you’ve ever dreamed of studying abroad but worried about the cost, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of students worldwide search for the best Master’s scholarships for international students to help make their academic dreams a reality. The truth is that pursuing higher education overseas can be expensive, encompassing not only tuition fees but also accommodation and living expenses. However, the good news is that many top universities and organisations now offer fully funded or partially funded Master’s scholarships explicitly designed to support talented students like you.

Whether you want to study in the UK, Switzerland, Belgium, or the Netherlands, these programs provide incredible opportunities to earn a world-class education while experiencing new cultures. Some cover tuition fees entirely, while others include monthly stipends, travel allowances, or research grants as part of their compensation.

Below is a carefully curated list of the most prestigious Master’s scholarships for international students that you can apply for in 2025 and 2026. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria, focus areas, and application deadlines, so be sure to take note and plan accordingly.

1. Gates Cambridge Scholarships (UK)

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the world’s most respected awards for postgraduate study. Established by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship provides full financial support, including tuition, living allowance, airfare, and other related expenses, to outstanding students from around the world who wish to study at the University of Cambridge. The program looks for future leaders with strong academic excellence and a passion for making a positive impact on society.

• Deadline: 15 Oct / 2 Dec 2025 / 7 Jan 2026
• Study in: The United Kingdom

2. Clarendon Fund Scholarships at the University of Oxford (UK)

The Clarendon Fund Scholarships are among the most competitive awards offered by the University of Oxford. Each year, about 140 students are selected based on academic merit and potential to contribute to their field. The scholarship covers full tuition fees and a generous living stipend, making it one of the most competitive Master’s scholarships for international students who aspire to study at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

• Deadline: 2 Dec 2025 / 8 Jan 2026
• Study in: The United Kingdom

3. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships (UK)

Funded by the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships are designed for talented students from developing Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria. The program is designed to equip the students with the knowledge and skills needed to drive sustainable development in their home countries. It covers tuition, airfare, and living expenses.

• Deadline: 14 Oct 2025
• Study in: The United Kingdom

4. ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships (Switzerland)

Switzerland is home to some of the world’s best universities, and ETH Zurich is at the forefront of that list. The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship provides both financial support and mentorship to exceptional students pursuing a master’s program in engineering, science, or technology. It’s an ideal opportunity for students looking to combine innovation with academic excellence.

• Deadline: 30 Nov 2025
• Study in: Switzerland

5. Radboud Scholarship Programme (Netherlands)

The Radboud Scholarship Programme offers a unique chance for highly motivated non-EU students to study at Radboud University in the Netherlands. The scholarship covers part of your tuition fee and contributes to living expenses. Known for its strong research culture and inclusive environment, Radboud University is an excellent choice for students seeking a high-quality education in Europe.

• Deadline: 31 Jan 2026
• Study in: The Netherlands

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6. University of Geneva Excellence Masters Fellowships (Switzerland)

If you’re passionate about scientific research and innovation, the University of Geneva Excellence Masters Fellowships might be perfect for you. The fellowship supports exceptional students from around the world pursuing a master’s degree in the Faculty of Science. The program promotes academic excellence and diversity while offering financial assistance to help you focus on your studies.

• Deadline: 28 Feb 2026
• Study in: Switzerland

7. University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants (Switzerland)

The UNIL Master’s Grants provide a monthly stipend of CHF 1,600 for the entire duration of the program. This scholarship is open to international students who have completed a bachelor’s degree from a foreign university and wish to pursue a master’s at the University of Lausanne. It’s one of the best Master’s scholarships for international students who value both academic rigour and a balanced lifestyle.

• Deadline: 1 Nov 2025
• Study in: Switzerland

8. ARES Scholarships in Belgium for Developing Countries

The ARES Scholarships provide an exceptional opportunity for students from developing countries, particularly those from Africa, to pursue a master’s degree or specialised training in Belgium. The program covers international travel, tuition, insurance, and living costs. It focuses on fields that promote sustainable development, such as public health, agriculture, and environmental management.

• Deadline: 19 Sept 2025
• Study in: Belgium

9. Eric Bleumink Fund Scholarships (Netherlands)

The Eric Bleumink Fund is one of the most respected scholarship programs in the Netherlands. Offered by the University of Groningen, it supports bright students from developing countries who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential. The scholarship covers tuition, airfare, books, and health insurance, making it a comprehensive package for postgraduate study.

• Deadline: 1 Dec (annual)
• Study in: Netherlands

10. University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship (New Zealand)

If you’re looking to study in a peaceful, multicultural environment, New Zealand should be on your list. The University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship offers partial tuition support to outstanding international students enrolling in Master’s, postgraduate diploma, or bachelor’s programs. It’s ideal for students who want to balance high-quality education with an exceptional lifestyle.

• Deadline: 1 April / 23 Oct 2025
• Study in: New Zealand

READ MORE: 15 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students without IELTS

Tips for Nigerian Applicants Applying for Master’s Scholarships

As a Nigerian student, standing out in a global scholarship competition means preparation and strategy. Here are some practical tips:

• Start Early: Many scholarships open nearly a year before the start of the academic year. Allow yourself sufficient time to gather the necessary documents, such as reference letters, transcripts, and proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL).
• Tailor Your Personal Statement: Highlight your achievements, community involvement, and how your chosen course connects to Nigeria’s development goals. Show how you plan to “give back.”
• Obtain Strong References: Select academic or professional referees who are well-versed in your abilities. Their endorsement can make a big difference.
• Meet All Requirements: Double-check eligibility criteria before applying. Some scholarships target specific fields, nationalities, or age brackets.
• Apply Widely: Don’t limit yourself to applying just one scholarship. Apply for multiple scholarship programs to increase your chances of receiving a scholarship.
• Prepare for Interviews: Some scholarships include virtual or in-person interviews. Practice articulating your goals and motivations confidently.

What to Look Out for When Choosing a Master’s Scholarship

Not all scholarships are created equal. When choosing a Master’s scholarship, here are the factors to put into careful consideration.

1. Funding Coverage: Check if the scholarship is fully funded (covers tuition, accommodation, and living expenses) or partially funded.
2. Course and University Reputation: Choose a program aligned with your career goals and a university recognised for excellence in your field.
3. Duration and Conditions: Some scholarships require you to return to your home country after graduation, and you have to ensure you’re comfortable with that.
4. Renewal Terms: For multi-year programs, verify if the funding continues throughout your study period or requires annual renewal based on performance.
5. Additional Opportunities: Some scholarships offer internships, leadership training, or mentoring. The advantage of these extra privileges is that they help to enrich your experience.
6. Country and Lifestyle Fit: Consider the cost of living, visa process, safety, and cultural environment of your study destination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which country is best for international students to study for free?

If your goal is to study abroad without paying tuition, Germany tops the list. Most public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education to both local and international students, with only a small semester fee covering administrative costs and public transportation.

Other countries, such as Norway and Finland, also offer free or very affordable tuition at public universities, especially for programs taught in English. However, keep in mind that living expenses in these countries can be pretty high, so applying for a fully funded scholarship is still a smart move.

Which country offers the best Master’s degree programs with low tuition fees?

If you’re looking for affordable yet high-quality education, consider France, Austria, or Italy. These countries offer excellent Master’s programs at public universities with tuition fees ranging from €200 to €2,000 per year, depending on the program and your nationality.

Other great options include Poland and Hungary, where you can find Master’s programs in English at a fraction of the cost of studying in the UK or the US, often combined with reasonable living expenses and strong international communities.

Is a Master’s degree free in Finland for international students?

Not entirely, but there’s good news. While Finland used to offer free education for all, tuition fees were reintroduced in 2017 for non-EU/EEA students. That said, many Finnish universities offer generous scholarships that can cover 50% to 100% of your tuition, and sometimes even living expenses.

If you have excellent grades or leadership potential, you could easily secure a fully funded Finnish scholarship and study in one of Europe’s most innovative education systems, surrounded by world-class research facilities and breathtaking nature.

Which country provides 100% scholarships for international students?

Countries that offer fully funded (100%) scholarships include:

• United Kingdom – through scholarships like Chevening, Gates Cambridge, and Commonwealth
• United States – via programs like Fulbright and university-specific fellowships that cover tuition, living, and travel.
• Switzerland – with top options like the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships and University of Lausanne Master’s Grants.
• Sweden – offering the Swedish Institute Scholarships for global professionals.
• Belgium – where ARES and VLIR-UOS scholarships fully fund master’s studies for students from developing countries.

READ MORE:
Best 11 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Canada

Finding the best Master’s scholarships for international students can be overwhelming at first, but opportunities are available; you just need to start early, conduct thorough research, and apply strategically. Scholarships like those offered by Oxford, Cambridge, and ETH Zurich are not only about funding; they also open doors to world-class networks, cutting-edge research, and transformative learning experiences.

For Nigerian students, these scholarships represent more than just financial aid, as they offer a chance to gain global exposure, enhance their skills, and return home ready to contribute to national development.