7 European Scholarships That Cover Tuition, Visa & Living Expenses (Fully Funded)
Studying in Europe is a dream for many students — but tuition fees, visa costs, accommodation, and daily expenses often stop people from applying. The good news? Several European scholarships are fully funded, meaning they pay for your tuition, visa fees, travel, health insurance, and monthly living expenses.
In this guide, you’ll discover top 7 European scholarships that make studying abroad affordable (or completely free) in countries like the UK, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany, Spain, and Portugal.
If you’re looking for legitimate, government-backed scholarships, this article is for you.
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (All European Union Countries)
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) is one of the most generous and competitive scholarships in Europe. It allows international students to study a joint master’s program across multiple European countries.
What the scholarship covers
-
100% tuition fees
-
Monthly stipend (€1,000–€1,400)
-
Travel and relocation allowance
-
Visa application costs
-
Full health insurance
Who can apply
-
International students from any country
-
Bachelor’s degree holders
-
No age limit
-
IELTS is sometimes waived depending on the university
Why Erasmus Mundus is special?
You don’t study in just one country. Most programs require you to study in 2–3 different European countries, giving you international exposure and a joint degree.
Application link
https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus
Typical deadline
October – January (varies by program)
2. Chevening Scholarship (United Kingdom)
The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s flagship fully funded scholarship for future leaders, professionals, and change-makers.
What the scholarship covers
-
Full tuition fees at any UK university
-
Monthly living allowance
-
Visa application fees
-
Return airfare to the UK
-
Arrival and departure grants
Who can apply?
-
International students from Chevening-eligible countries
-
At least 2 years of work experience
-
Strong leadership and networking potential
Why Chevening stands out?
You can study at top UK universities like Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, or Manchester — without worrying about costs.
Application link
https://www.chevening.org/apply
Typical deadline
Early November every year
3. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is offered to international students who want to pursue Master’s, PhD, or research programs in Switzerland.
What the scholarship covers
-
Monthly stipend (around CHF 1,920)
-
Tuition fee waiver
-
Health insurance
-
Housing allowance
-
Visa support
Who can apply
-
Master’s, PhD, and research applicants
-
Strong academic background
-
Country-specific eligibility (varies)
Why study in Switzerland
Switzerland consistently ranks among the top countries for quality education and living standards.
Application link
https://www.sbfi.admin.ch/scholarships
Typical deadline
September – December (depends on country)
4. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (Sweden)
This scholarship is designed for working professionals who want to pursue a Master’s degree in Sweden.
What the scholarship covers
-
Full tuition fees
-
Monthly living allowance (SEK 12,000)
-
Travel grant
-
Health insurance
Who can apply
-
International applicants with work experience
-
Applicants to Swedish Master’s programs
-
Leadership and sustainability focus
Why Sweden is attractive
Students can work part-time while studying and access post-study opportunities after graduation. Sweden is attractive to international students because of its world-class education system, innovative teaching methods, generous scholarships, and inclusive society. It offers a unique blend of academic excellence, practical experience, and cultural openness that appeals to students from around the globe.
Application link
https://si.se/en/apply/scholarships
Typical deadline
January – February
5. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offers one of the largest scholarship programs in the world.
What the scholarship covers
-
Monthly stipend (€934–€1,300)
-
Health insurance
-
Travel allowance
-
Visa support
-
Tuition (where applicable)
Who can apply?
-
Graduate and postgraduate students
-
Many programs taught in English
-
Academic merit required
Why Germany is a top choice?
Most public universities in Germany charge little or no tuition, making DAAD even more valuable.
Application link
https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships
Typical deadline
August – December (varies by program)
ALSO READ : How To Write A Scholarship Motivation Letter
6. MAEC-AECID Scholarships (Spain)
Spain’s MAEC-AECID Scholarship supports international students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, and research programs.
What the scholarship covers
-
Monthly stipend
-
Tuition assistance
-
Accommodation support
-
Health insurance
Who can apply
-
Students from eligible countries
-
Academic excellence required
Why Spain?
Spain offers low living costs, vibrant student life, and growing English-taught programs. Spain attracts international students with its vibrant culture, affordable education, sunny climate, and strong academic institutions. It’s one of Europe’s top destinations for study abroad.
Application link
Typical deadline
February – April
7. Portugal Government & University Scholarships (Portugal)
Portugal is becoming a hidden gem for international students, thanks to affordable education and welcoming immigration policies.
What the scholarship covers
-
Tuition fee reductions or waivers
-
Monthly living allowance
-
Accommodation support
Who can apply?
-
Undergraduate and postgraduate students
-
International applicants
Why Portugal is worth considering?
Portugal has one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe and increasing English-taught programs.
Application link
Typical deadline
March – June
Final Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning These Scholarships
-
Apply to multiple scholarships, not just one
-
Prepare a strong motivation letter
-
Highlight leadership, volunteering, or work experience
-
Double-check deadlines on official websites
-
Start preparation 6–12 months early