Getting a fully funded scholarship can completely change your life—financially, professionally, and personally. Whether you’re aiming to study in the UK or across Europe, these five scholarships offer some of the best opportunities for international students from developing countries.
1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Who it’s for: Talented, socially committed students from Africa
Level: Mostly Master’s (and some Undergraduate)
Where: Partner universities in the UK, US, Canada, and Africa
This scholarship doesn’t just cover your tuition and living costs—it’s built around leadership development, mentorship, and community impact. In the UK, partner universities like the University of Edinburgh, University of Cambridge, and University of Oxford offer MCF scholarships.
Covers:
Full tuition
Monthly stipend
Travel, visa, accommodation
Leadership training and support network
Applications: Usually open between August and December, but deadlines depend on the university.
Tip: MCF looks for more than grades. They want students who are making a difference in their communities and have big plans to do more.
2. Chevening Scholarship
Who it’s for: Emerging leaders from over 160 countries
Level: One-year Master’s degrees
Where: Any UK university
Chevening is the UK government’s global scholarship scheme. It’s not just a scholarship, it’s a network. Chevening alumni go on to become presidents, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.
Covers:
Full tuition
Monthly stipend
Visa, flights, and arrival allowance
Networking events across the UK
Applications: Open every August and close in early November.
Tip: The essays are key. Tell your story. Show how your goals align with Chevening’s values: leadership, influence, and public service.
3. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree
Who it’s for: Students from any country
Level: Master’s
Where: Multiple universities across Europe (including some in the UK)
This is one of the most exciting scholarships because you get to study in 2–3 countries as part of one master’s program. Each course is run by a consortium of universities—so you might start in France, move to Italy, and finish in Spain or the UK.
Covers:
Full tuition
Monthly living allowance (~€1,100/month)
Travel and installation costs
Health insurance
Applications: Each program sets its own deadline, usually between October and January.
Tip: Erasmus values cultural adaptability and global thinking. If you’re flexible, curious, and open to new experiences, this is for you.
4. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship
Who it’s for: Citizens of low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries
Level: Master’s
Where: UK universities
This scholarship is funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). It’s aimed at students who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford to study in the UK and who want to contribute to sustainable development back home.
Covers:
Full tuition
Monthly stipend
Airfare
Thesis grant
Warm clothing allowance and family support (if applicable)
Applications: Open around September to December via your home country’s nominating agency or university.
Tip: Check if your country has a nominating agency. The application must go through them in most cases.
5. Commonwealth Shared Scholarship
Who it’s for: Students from eligible developing Commonwealth countries
Level: Master’s
Where: Selected UK universities and courses only
This is a joint scholarship between the UK government and participating UK universities. Unlike the regular Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship, you don’t need a nominating agency—you apply directly through the university.
Covers:
Full tuition
Monthly living stipend
Travel expenses
Thesis grant (for some courses)
Applications: Usually open around February–March each year.
Tip: Scholarships are tied to specific courses and universities. Use the CSC website to find which programs are eligible each year.
Fully funded scholarships do more than pay your fees—they open doors. They connect you with future leaders, expose you to new cultures, and help you grow in ways you never imagined.
If you’re dreaming of studying abroad but worried about the cost, these scholarships were made for people like you. Start researching, keep an eye on deadlines, and don’t be afraid to tell your story boldly.
