√ A Guide to Masters Scholarships in Europe for International Applicants

Introduction

Europe remains one of the most attractive destinations for postgraduate education, offering high academic standards, cultural richness, and a broad spectrum of scholarship opportunities. For international applicants, particularly those seeking financial support, Europe presents a wealth of fully and partially funded scholarships at the master’s level. This guide highlights some of the most prestigious programs and offers a roadmap for a successful scholarship application.

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD)
EMJMD is one of the most renowned scholarship programs funded by the European Union. It offers fully funded scholarships for joint master’s degrees in multiple European universities.

• Covers tuition, travel, installation, and living expenses.
• Open to students worldwide. 🔗 https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/emjmd-catalogue_en

2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a variety of master’s scholarships for international students, particularly from developing countries.

• Includes full tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel grants.
• Emphasis on development-related postgraduate courses. 🔗 https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/

3. Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden)
These scholarships target talented international students pursuing master’s programs at Swedish universities.

• Covers tuition, living expenses, and insurance.
• Open to students from select countries in Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe. 🔗 https://si.se/en/apply/scholarships/

4. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (France)
Managed by Campus France, this prestigious award supports foreign students applying for master’s degrees in priority fields.

• Monthly allowance, international travel, health insurance.
• Does not cover tuition fees. 🔗 https://www.campusfrance.org/en/eiffel-scholarship-program-of-excellence

5. Holland Scholarship (Netherlands)
Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education and research universities, this scholarship targets non-EEA students applying for master’s programs.

• One-time grant of €5,000.
• Meant as a contribution to living costs. 🔗 https://www.studyinholland.nl/finances/holland-scholarship

6. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships (Switzerland)
This scholarship supports academically outstanding students enrolling in science master’s programs.

• Award ranges from CHF 10,000–15,000 per year. 🔗 https://www.unige.ch/sciences/en/teachings/excellencemasterfellowships/

7. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Programme (ESOP)
This scholarship supports top-performing students from around the world entering ETH Zurich’s master’s programs.

• Covers tuition and living expenses. 🔗 https://ethz.ch/en/studies/financial/scholarships/excellence-scholarship.html

8. Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships
This program offers 60 scholarships annually for international students pursuing a one-year master’s program in Ireland.

• Includes full tuition and €10,000 stipend. 🔗 https://hea.ie/funding-governance-performance/funding/student-finance/course-funding/government-of-ireland-international-education-scholarships/

9. VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium)
Designed for students from selected developing countries pursuing master’s programs in development fields.

• Full funding including tuition, travel, insurance, and living costs. 🔗 https://www.vliruos.be/en/scholarships/6

10. Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards (Italy)
Awarded based on academic excellence to international students enrolling in graduate programs.

• Includes full tuition waiver and housing. 🔗 https://www.unibocconi.eu/wps/wcm/connect/Bocconi/SitoPubblico_EN/Navigation+Tree/Home/Programs/Tuition+and+Funding/Scholarships+and+Funding/Bocconi+Graduate+Merit+Awards/

Conclusion

Master’s scholarships in Europe provide an incredible opportunity for international students to gain a world-class education while alleviating the financial burden. These programs also encourage academic excellence, cross-cultural exchange, and career development. By understanding the eligibility requirements and preparing thoroughly, applicants can significantly improve their chances of securing these prestigious awards.