Europe remains one of the best study destinations in the world, offering world-class universities, excellent living standards, diverse cultures, and thousands of scholarship opportunities. Many international students are surprised to learn that some European countries offer fully funded scholarships covering tuition fees, monthly living allowances, travel expenses, accommodation support, and health insurance.

If you dream of studying abroad but worry about costs, this guide highlights the top 12 fully funded scholarships in Europe for 2026, along with eligibility requirements, benefits, and tips to help you win one of these life-changing opportunities.

Why Study in Europe in 2026?

Europe offers numerous advantages for international students:

• Many countries provide free or low-cost tuition

• High-quality education and top-ranked universities

• English-taught programs widely available

• Safe countries with high living standards

• Strong post-study work opportunities

• Large international student communities

Fully funded scholarships make Europe even more accessible, especially for students from developing countries.

Top 12 Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for 2026

These scholarships are selected based on coverage, popularity, opportunities, and acceptance rates.

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarship

One of the most prestigious scholarship programs in Europe, Erasmus Mundus allows students to study in two or more European countries under one program.

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage

• Monthly stipend

• Travel allowance

• Insurance

• Opportunity to study in multiple universities

Best for:

Master’s degree applicants in fields such as engineering, business, health, and social sciences.

2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

Germany offers a wide range of fully funded scholarships through the DAAD for postgraduate students.

Benefits:

• Monthly stipend

• Free education (Germany has no tuition fees in most states)

• Health insurance

• Travel grants

Best for:

Research students, master’s programs, and PhD candidates.

3. Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden)

Sweden offers generous scholarships for highly motivated students seeking master’s degrees.

Benefits:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly living allowance

• Travel support

• Insurance

Best for:

Students interested in sustainability, tech, engineering, business, and social sciences.

4. Chevening Scholarship (United Kingdom)

Chevening is a prestigious UK government scholarship for one-year master’s programs.

Benefits:

• Full university tuition

• Monthly stipend

• Travel expenses

• Free visa application

• Networking opportunities with global leaders

Best for:

Students with leadership potential.

5. Netherlands Orange Tulip Scholarship

The Netherlands offers competitive scholarships to students from selected countries.

Benefits:

• Full or partial tuition waivers

• Monthly support (varies by university)

• Networking opportunities

Best for:

Bachelor’s and master’s degree applicants.

6. France Eiffel Excellence Scholarship

This is one of Europe’s top scholarships for master’s and PhD studies.

Benefits:

• Monthly living allowance

• Travel reimbursement

• Health insurance

• Campus activities

Best for:

Engineering, economics, political science, and environmental sciences.

7. Switzerland Government Excellence Scholarships

Switzerland offers research and postgraduate scholarships for international students.

Benefits:

• Monthly stipend

• Health insurance

• Tuition support

• Accommodation allowance

Best for:

Researchers, scientists, and PhD students.

8. Finland Government Scholarships

Finland offers scholarships to students in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.

Benefits:

• Tuition fee waiver

• Monthly grant (in some cases)

• Strong research support

Best for:

Tech, business, IT, design, and engineering fields.

9. Norway State Educational Loan Fund Scholarships

Although Norway offers free tuition at public universities, you can also receive financial support.

Benefits:

• Free education

• Grants for living expenses

• Extra funding for low-income applicants

Best for:

Bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs.

10. Belgium Government Scholarships

Belgium offers fully funded scholarships for students from developing countries.

Benefits:

• Tuition coverage

• Monthly allowance

• Travel support

• Accommodation and insurance

Best for:

Master’s programs and specialized training courses.

11. Austria OeAD Scholarships

Austria provides scholarships for master’s and research programs.

Benefits:

• Monthly stipend

• Health insurance

• Accommodation support

• Tuition fee waivers

Best for:

Research-oriented students and master’s applicants.

12. Italy Regional Scholarships

Italy offers several government-funded scholarship opportunities through regional programs.

Benefits:

• Tuition fee waivers

• Free accommodation

• Meal vouchers

• Annual financial support

Best for:

Bachelor’s and master’s students.

Comparison Table: Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe (2026)

How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship in Europe

Winning a fully funded scholarship can be competitive, but the right strategy helps you stand out.

Prepare a Strong Personal Statement

Explain your motivation, achievements, leadership qualities, and future goals clearly.

Achieve High Academic Performance

Good grades improve your chances across most European scholarships.

Get Excellent Recommendation Letters

Choose professors or employers who understand your strengths.

Research Each Program Carefully

Customize your application to match the scholarship’s mission and values.

Submit All Documents Early

Late submissions are often rejected automatically.

Learn Basic Language Requirements

Some scholarships require basic knowledge of the local language.

Documents Required for Scholarship Applications

Common required documents include:

• Passport

• Academic transcripts

• Degree certificates

• CV or resume

• Motivation letter

• Recommendation letters

• Language test scores (if required)

• Research proposal (for PhD)

Ensure your documents are clear and professionally presented.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really possible to study in Europe for free?

Yes. Many European countries offer free tuition or fully funded scholarships covering all expenses.

Do I need IELTS to apply?

Some programs require IELTS or TOEFL, while others accept alternative proofs of English proficiency.

Can I work while studying in Europe?

Yes, most countries allow students to work part-time.

Are European scholarships difficult to get?

Some are competitive, but many programs aim to support international students.

Conclusion

Studying in Europe for free is not just a dream—it is a real possibility for students who apply for the right scholarships. From the Erasmus Mundus program to DAAD, Sweden, France, and many more, Europe offers exceptional opportunities for international students at every academic level.

With strong preparation, a compelling personal statement, and a clear strategy, you can significantly increase your chances of securing a fully funded scholarship in 2026 and begin your academic journey in one of the world’s most advanced education systems.