If you’re thinking about studying for a master’s degree in Europe and want help with funding, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the Top 5 Masters Scholarships for International Students in Europe—some of the best opportunities available for international students aiming to pursue a master’s degree. We’ll explain what each scholarship is, how it works, and how you can apply, all in a simple and clear way.
Why consider studying in Europe and using a scholarship?
Before diving into specific scholarships, here are some reasons why Europe is a great destination for higher studies and why scholarships make a big difference:
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Many European universities offer high-quality programs taught in English, even for international students.
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Europe offers cultural diversity, travel opportunities, and a rich learning environment.
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Master’s degrees usually last 1–2 years, which is shorter than in many other countries.
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Scholarships reduce or remove financial burdens such as tuition, travel, and living costs.
A scholarship can make your dream of studying abroad much more achievable.
What to look for in a good scholarship
When choosing a scholarship, consider these features:
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Coverage: Does it pay full tuition? Does it include living costs, travel, or visa fees?
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Eligibility: Which countries are eligible? Are there restrictions based on nationality?
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Duration: For how long is the scholarship valid?
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Application process & deadlines: Are there essays, motivation letters, GPA requirements?
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Requirements: Academic excellence, language proficiency, leadership, or motivation.
Knowing these details will help you plan your applications effectively.
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM)
Overview
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A European Commission-funded program under Erasmus+ for joint master’s degrees delivered by a consortium of European universities.
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Students often study in at least two different countries as part of the program.
Why it’s great
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Offers full funding in many cases: tuition, travel, and living allowance.
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Open to international students from almost any country.
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Provides international exposure and networking opportunities across multiple universities.
Key details
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1–2 years |
| Coverage | Tuition, travel, living allowance |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree required; apply to specific EMJM programs |
| Deadline | Varies by program; plan well in advance |
Tips for applying
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Choose your program early. EMJM programs are specific and limited.
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Prepare a strong motivation letter highlighting international interest and academic excellence.
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Ensure you meet language and academic requirements.
2. VU Fellowship Programme (VUFP) – Netherlands
Overview
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Designed for non-EU/EEA students who wish to study a full-time English-taught master’s at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.
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Covers tuition fees and sometimes contributes to living costs through additional scholarships.
Why it’s great
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Helps non-EU students access high-quality education in the Netherlands without tuition fees.
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Offers the benefit of studying in an internationally recognized Dutch university.
Key details
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Tuition waiver; some contribution to living costs |
| Eligibility | Non-EU/EEA students; admitted to English-taught full-time master’s program |
| Duration | 1–2 years |
| Deadline | Typically early in the academic year |
Tips for applying
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Ensure your GPA and academic record meet the scholarship criteria.
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Gain admission to the program first before applying for the scholarship.
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Check that your chosen master’s program is eligible.
3. Uppsala University Global Scholarship – Sweden
Overview
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Offered to international fee-paying master’s students at Uppsala University.
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Covers full tuition fees for selected students.
Why it’s great
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Eliminates tuition costs for non-EU students.
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Sweden provides a research-oriented, high-quality education and a welcoming student environment.
Key details
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Full tuition waiver |
| Eligibility | Non-EU/EEA students; admitted to the master’s program; high academic achievement |
| Duration | 1–2 years |
| Application | Apply to the program first, then to the scholarship |
Tips for applying
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Budget for living expenses, as tuition is covered but living costs are not.
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Submit applications on time.
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Use a strong motivation letter to explain your choice of Uppsala and field of study.
4. Study a Master’s in Europe Scholarship
Overview
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Open to students from any country applying for a master’s degree in Europe.
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Award amount up to €5,000 to help with tuition fees.
Why it’s great
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Flexible and inclusive, open to all nationalities.
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Offers partial financial support to reduce tuition costs.
Key details
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Award Amount | Up to €5,000 |
| Eligibility | Any nationality; must apply for a master’s in Europe |
| Duration | Depends on the master’s program |
| Coverage | Partial tuition support |
Tips for applying
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Combine this scholarship with other funding sources if needed.
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Submit a compelling essay explaining how the scholarship will help you.
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Ensure your program is eligible.
5. UK Government-Linked Scholarships (Example)
Although not continental Europe, the UK is often included academically. Programs like Chevening and other UK government scholarships fund international postgraduate students. These often provide full tuition, living costs, and additional benefits.
Comparison Table: Top 5 Masters Scholarships for International Students in Europe
| # | Scholarship | Coverage | Duration | Key Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters | Tuition + travel + living | 1–2 years | Bachelor’s degree; specific EMJM programs |
| 2 | VU Fellowship Programme (VUFP) | Tuition waiver + partial living | 1–2 years | Non-EU/EEA; admitted at VU Amsterdam |
| 3 | Uppsala University Global Scholarship | Full tuition | 1–2 years | Non-EU/EEA; high academic achievement |
| 4 | Study a Master’s in Europe Scholarship | Up to €5,000 | Varies | Any nationality; European master’s program |
| 5 | UK Government-Linked Scholarships | Varies (full/partial) | 1 year | Strong academics and leadership skills |
How to Prepare for Applying
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Decide your study destination and subject
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Check scholarship eligibility early
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Prepare documents: transcripts, degree certificate, language tests, motivation letters, recommendation letters
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Apply for the master’s program first if required
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Submit the scholarship application on time
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Follow up after submission and check award conditions
Final Thoughts
Studying abroad for a master’s degree is an exciting opportunity. The Top 5 Masters Scholarships for International Students in Europe including Erasmus Mundus, VU Fellowship, Uppsala University, and others can make your education accessible and financially feasible. Apply early, prepare carefully, and present your best academic and personal achievements. With effort and focus, you can secure a scholarship and start an enriching chapter of study in Europe.