Scholarships for International Students in Europe: 2027 Guide

A scholarship can cover your tuition, living costs and even flights. Competition is strong, but many major programmes are open to students from Southern Africa, and deadlines for 2027 entry come early. Here are the awards worth knowing, with dates from our scholarships page.

Fully funded government scholarships

Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary) — closes 15 January 2027

Run by the Hungarian government through the Tempus Public Foundation. Covers a tuition waiver, a monthly stipend, an accommodation contribution and medical insurance, at bachelor's, master's and PhD level. You apply through your country's partner ministry, so check that your country takes part.

DAAD EPOS (Germany)

The German Academic Exchange Service funds development-related postgraduate courses for professionals from developing countries, paying €992 per month for master's students plus insurance, travel and tuition where applicable. You usually need a bachelor's degree and at least two years of relevant work experience. One example, the INEMA Education Management programme, closes on 15 March 2027.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EU)

Funded by the European Commission. You study in two or more European countries and receive tuition, travel and installation costs, plus a monthly allowance of about €1,400. Each programme sets its own deadline, usually between October and February.

NAWA Ignacy Łukasiewicz Scholarship (Poland)

Offered by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange for master's studies, with a tuition waiver and a monthly stipend.

Scholarships beyond the EU

• Chevening (UK, master's, 2028/29 round): tuition, monthly stipend, flights and arrival allowances.
• Commonwealth Master's Scholarships (UK, 2028/29 round): tuition, airfare, stipend and thesis allowance.
• Australia Awards (Australia, master's, 2028 intake): closes 30 April 2027. Full tuition, airfare, living allowance and health cover.
• Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA, master's and PhD, 2028/29 cycle).

How to make your application stand out

1. Start 12 months early. Most deadlines fall 8–12 months before the course begins.
2. Match the scholarship's purpose. Development-focused awards want to know how you will use your degree at home.
3. Get strong references. Ask lecturers or employers who know your work well, and give them plenty of time.
4. Prepare documents in advance. Certified transcripts, a valid passport and English test results often take weeks to obtain.
5. Apply to several. Treat scholarships like university applications and spread your chances.

Stay updated

Subscribe to any scholarship on our scholarships page to be emailed when it changes, and check the deadlines page for university closing dates.