Top 10 Scholarships in Europe for International Students (2025 Edition)

Europe remains a dream destination for students worldwide — offering quality education, cultural diversity, and globally recognized degrees.
However, studying in Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. Across the continent, many governments and universities offer fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
This guide explores the top 10 scholarships in Europe for international students in 2025, including eligibility, benefits, and official links to apply.

Why Choose Europe for Higher Education?

Europe offers a wide range of study opportunities in over 40 countries, with more than 1,500 English-taught programs.
From research-driven universities in Germany to innovative campuses in the Netherlands, students can find both quality and affordability.
Key reasons to study in Europe include:

• World-class universities and research institutions.

• Availability of English-taught programs at all levels.

• Generous scholarship options from governments and universities.

• Opportunity to work during and after studies with simplified visa rules.

• Cultural diversity and global career exposure.

Top 10 Scholarships in Europe for 2025

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EU-Wide)

The Erasmus Mundus program is one of the most prestigious scholarships in Europe. It funds international students to study in multiple European countries under a joint master’s program. Benefits: Full tuition coverage, monthly stipend (€1,400), travel allowance, and insurance. Eligibility: Students from all over the world with a bachelor’s degree. Official website: https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus-programme_en

2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers fully funded scholarships for master’s and PhD students in all fields. Benefits: Monthly allowance (€934 for master’s, €1,200 for PhD), travel, and insurance. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of work experience preferred. Official website: https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/

3. Chevening Scholarships (UK)

Funded by the UK Government, the Chevening Scholarship covers a one-year master’s program at top UK universities. Benefits: Full tuition, travel costs, and a monthly stipend. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree and minimum 2 years of professional experience. Official website: https://www.chevening.org/

4. Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden)

These scholarships are offered to students from select countries pursuing master’s degrees in Sweden. Benefits: Full tuition, monthly living allowance (SEK 12,000), and travel grant. Eligibility: Demonstrated leadership experience and academic excellence. Official website: https://si.se/en/apply/scholarships/

5. Holland Government Scholarship (Netherlands)

This scholarship targets international students outside the EU/EEA pursuing bachelor’s or master’s programs. Benefits: €5,000 grant for the first year of study. Eligibility: Non-EU students applying to Dutch universities. Official website: https://www.studyinholland.nl/

6. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (France)

Offered by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, this scholarship supports master’s and PhD students. Benefits: Monthly allowance (€1,181 for master’s, €1,700 for PhD), travel, and health insurance. Eligibility: Non-French students under 30 (master’s) or 35 (PhD). Official website: https://www.campusfrance.org/en/eiffel-scholarship-program-of-excellence

7. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)

The Swiss Government awards scholarships to promote international research cooperation. Benefits: Full tuition, monthly stipend (CHF 1,920), housing, and insurance. Eligibility: Master’s or PhD applicants from eligible countries. Official website: https://www.sbfi.admin.ch/sbfi/en/home/education/scholarships-and-grants/swiss-government-excellence-scholarships.html

8. Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (Ireland)

This scholarship is open to students from non-EU countries for one year of study at bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD level. Benefits: Full tuition waiver and €10,000 stipend. Eligibility: Excellent academic record and strong motivation letter. Official website: https://hea.ie/2023/12/04/government-of-ireland-international-education-scholarships-2025/

9. Danish Government Scholarships (Denmark)

The Danish Ministry of Education offers scholarships to highly qualified students from non-EU/EEA countries. Benefits: Full or partial tuition waiver plus living cost contribution. Eligibility: Admission to a full-degree program at a Danish university. Official website: https://studyindenmark.dk/

10. Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students (Italy)

Italy provides scholarships for master’s, PhD, and language courses at public universities. Benefits: Full or partial tuition, €900 monthly allowance, and health insurance. Eligibility: Non-Italian students under 28 (master’s) or 30 (PhD). Official website: https://studyinitaly.esteri.it/

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship

1. Start early — many applications open 8–12 months before the intake.

2. Write a strong motivation letter explaining your academic goals.

3. Get recommendation letters from professors or employers who know your strengths.

4. Highlight leadership experience and community involvement.

5. Submit error-free, well-organized documents before the deadline.

Bonus: Universities Offering Their Own Scholarships

Apart from government-funded programs, many European universities offer institutional scholarships.
Some top examples include:

• University of Helsinki Scholarships (Finland): https://www.helsinki.fi/

• ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland): https://ethz.ch/

• KU Leuven Science@Leuven Scholarship (Belgium): https://www.kuleuven.be/

• University of Bologna Study Grants (Italy): https://www.unibo.it/

Conclusion

Europe offers countless opportunities for talented international students to pursue their dreams without financial barriers.
Whether through Erasmus+, DAAD, or national programs like Eiffel or Swedish Institute, there’s a scholarship for every field of study.
Start preparing your application early, focus on academic excellence, and let 2025 be the year you begin your fully funded journey to Europe.

👉 Explore more European scholarships and eligibility guidance at https://prpilot.net/scholarships