Top Global Scholarships (Bachelor's, Master's, PhD)
Let me start with a small truth: chasing
higher education abroad can feel like staring at a mountain. Tuition fees pile
up, visa forms blur together, and you wonder if “your dream university” will
ever stop feeling like a distant poster on your wall. But for me—and thousands
of students like you—Turkey Scholarships turned that mountain into a trail.
It’s not just a “funding program”; it’s a hand held out when you need it most,
whether you’re fresh out of high school (eyeing a Bachelor’s) or ready to dive
deeper into research (chasing a PhD). Let’s break it down like we’re chatting
over coffee—no jargon, just real talk about what it actually means
for your journey.
First: Who is this for? Spoiler—It’s
for you, if
you’re hungry to learn.
The Turkey Scholarships don't select “perfect” students. It selects people who care: the undergraduate who stays up late designing sustainable architecture models, the graduate student obsessed with curing regional diseases, and the PhD candidate who wants to fill gaps in their field. I met a girl from Kenya last year (she’s doing her Master’s in Public Health) who told me she applied three times before getting in—because she refused to give up on her goal of building clinics in rural areas. That’s the vibe here: resilience matters more than a flawless transcript.
And it covers every level:
- Bachelor’s: For high school grads
(18–25) who want to spend 4–5 years studying everything from engineering
to fine arts. Imagine moving to Istanbul or Ankara, taking classes in
English (or Turkish, if you want to learn!), and getting your entire
tuition paid for—plus a monthly stipend to cover rent and food.
- Master’s: For college grads (22–30)
ready to specialize. My friend from Brazil is here for a Master’s in
Renewable Energy; she gets to work in labs with top professors and even
travels to conferences for free. The scholarship covers 2 years of
tuition, plus a bigger stipend (since grad school expenses add up fast).
- PhD: For researchers (25–35) who
want to lead their own projects. A guy in my lab (he’s studying AI ethics)
told me the best part isn’t just the funding—it’s the access: he gets to
use Turkey’s top research facilities, collaborate with international
teams, and even publish his work in major journals with his advisor’s
help. PhDs last 3–4 years, and the stipend is enough to live comfortably
(no more side hustles just to afford textbooks!).
What does it actually cover? No hidden
costs—promise.
Let’s be real: scholarships that “cover
tuition” but leave you stranded for rent or flights are useless. Turkey
Scholarships get that. When I arrived last year, here’s what I didn’t have to
worry about:
- Tuition: 100% free. No “partial
coverage” loopholes. Even for expensive programs like medicine or
engineering.
- Flights: A round-trip ticket from
your home country to Turkey. I flew from India to Istanbul, and the
scholarship booked everything—no stress of saving up for a $1,000 flight.
- Housing: Either a dorm room (most
undergrads choose this—great for making friends!) or a monthly housing
allowance. I live in a small apartment near campus, and the allowance
covers 80% of my rent.
- Stipend: Every month, money hits
your bank account for food, transport, and basics. For undergrads, it’s
around 1,500 Turkish Lira (about $60–$70, but it goes further in Turkey
than you think). For PhDs, it’s double that—enough to focus on research
instead of working part-time.
- Extras: Health insurance (so you
don’t panic if you get sick), Turkish language courses (even if you study
in English—learning the local language makes life so much
easier), and even support for cultural events (last month, I went to a
traditional Turkish music festival for free, thanks to the program!).
The “scary” parts—And why they’re not so
scary.
I’ll admit, I was nervous to apply. I
thought: “I’m not from a top school—will they even look at my
application?” Or “What if I can’t adapt to life in Turkey?” But
here’s what I learned:
- The application process is straightforward: You apply online (one form, no endless essays), submit your
transcripts and a personal statement (just be honest about why you want to
study in Turkey!), and do a short interview (it’s more of a chat—they just
want to know your goals). The team even has a help desk in multiple
languages if you get stuck.
- Turkey is welcoming: I was worried
about feeling like an outsider, but my neighbors brought me homemade
baklava when I moved in, and my classmates helped me navigate the subway
(I still get lost sometimes, but they laugh with me, not at me). Most
universities have international student clubs—we have movie nights,
potlucks, and even weekend trips to places like Cappadocia (the hot air
balloons are worth every second).
- You’re not alone: The scholarship has a mentor program—each new student gets paired with someone who’s been here a year or two. My mentor (she’s from Nigeria, doing her PhD in Education) helped me buy a SIM card, find a grocery store, and even calm down when I failed my first Turkish quiz.
My favorite part: It’s not just about
school—it’s about growing up.
Last week, I stood in Taksim Square in
Istanbul, watching the sunset, and realized: I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t
for this scholarship. I used to be scared to travel alone, to speak up in
class, to ask for help. But living in Turkey—studying with people from 150+
countries, learning a new language, figuring out how to fix a broken faucet by
myself—has made me braver.
A Master’s student I know put it best:
“Turkey Scholarships doesn’t just give you a degree. It gives you a life you
couldn’t have imagined.” Whether you want to build robots, write novels, or
find cures—this is your chance to stop dreaming and start doing.
So, what’s next?
If this sounds like something you
want—apply. Even if you’re nervous. Even if you think “I’m not good enough.”
The worst they can say is no—but the best? You’ll be packing your bags, making
friends from around the world, and taking steps toward the career you’ve always
wanted.
I’ll see you in Turkey. Bring an open mind—and maybe a sweet tooth (the baklava here is life-changing).
Benefits: Tuition fees, accommodation, monthly stipend, health insurance, Turkish language course
Note: Issued by the Turkish government
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Degrees
Benefits: Tuition fees, travel expenses, living expenses, insurance
To be eligible, a student must have a
bachelor’s degree (or be in their final year of bachelor's studies). Each
programme is jointly crafted by at least three institutions hailing from at
least three different countries. A significant number of associated partners
from both academic and non-academic worlds are also involved. This diverse
collaboration ensures a rich, multi-faceted educational experience. The study
period typically requires students to study in at least two countries different
from their country of residence. This cross-border study is not just about
changing locations; it’s about immersing in different academic cultures,
learning from varied teaching methodologies, and building an extensive
international network.
Degree Options
Upon successful completion of the Erasmus
Mundus Joint Master’s programme, students are awarded either a joint degree or
multiple degrees. A joint degree is a single degree certificate issued on
behalf of at least two higher education institutions. Multiple degrees, on the
other hand, mean that students receive at least two degree certificates issued
by two higher education institutions within the consortium. These degrees are
highly regarded globally, opening doors to numerous career opportunities and further
academic pursuits.
Available Benefits:
Application Process and Deadlines
The application process is relatively
straightforward, but it requires careful planning. Students apply directly to
the institution running their chosen programme. Each master's website contains
all the essential details, such as the course of study, the list of
participating universities, entry requirements, and the entire application
process (both with and without scholarship options). In most cases,
applications should be submitted between October and January for courses
starting the following academic year. However, it's crucial to note that these
deadlines can vary depending on the specific programme.
Fields of Study
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees
span across a vast array of fields. Whether you're interested in cutting-edge
fields like artificial intelligence, where you could study at top-tier European
universities as part of a consortium, or more traditional fields such as the
humanities, social sciences, engineering, or natural sciences, there is likely
a programme tailored to your interests. For example, in the field of advanced
materials science and engineering, students can participate in a joint European
master's programme, gaining exposure to state-of-the-art research and industry-relevant
knowledge.
Impact on Students' Careers
The Erasmus Mundus experience is not just
about academic learning. It equips students with a unique set of skills and
experiences that are highly valued in the global job market. The cross-cultural
exposure, international network building, and the ability to adapt to different
educational and living environments make Erasmus Mundus graduates stand out.
They are well-prepared to take on roles in multinational companies,
international organisations, or pursue further research at the highest levels.
In summary, the Erasmus Mundus Joint
Master’s Degrees offer an unparalleled opportunity for students to pursue a world-class
master's education, gain international exposure, and set themselves on a path
to a successful and fulfilling career.
Note: EU-wide, study in multiple countries
3. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Level: PhD (Canada)
Benefits: CAD 50,000/year for 3 years
For Full details about this scholarship you can visit our Home Page.
4. Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships (Oxford)
Level: Graduate (Master’s and PhD)
Note: For scholars from developing/emerging economies
For Full details about this scholarship you can visit our Home Page.
5. Clarendon Fund (Oxford)
Level: Master’s and PhD
Coverage: Course fees + living expenses
Note: Open to all nationalities, automatic consideration for graduate applicants
For Full details about this scholarship you can visit our Home Page.
6. Jardine Scholarship
Level: Undergraduate (Oxford & Cambridge)
Coverage: Full tuition, stipend, insurance, travel, internships
Note: Very prestigious, Asia-Pacific-based applicants
For Full details about this scholarship you can visit our Home Page.
7. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Level: Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Tuition, stipend, travel, health insurance
Note: Wide range of fields & programs
For Full details about this scholarship you can visit our Home Page.
8. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
Level: Master’s
Coverage: Tuition, living allowance, airfare, visa costs
Note: From UK Govt for emerging leaders from 160 countries
For Full details about this scholarship you can visit our Home Page.
9. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
Level: Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Tuition, stipend, airfare
Note: For students from Commonwealth nations
For Full details about this scholarship you can visit our Home Page.
10. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
Level: Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Tuition, airfare, stipend, health insurance
Note: Available for students from 160+ countries
For Full details about this scholarship you can visit our Home Page.
11. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Level: Master’s, PhD (Cambridge, UK)
Coverage: Stipend (~£17,500), tuition, health and academic
funding, family allowance
For Full details about this scholarship you can visit our Home Page.
12. MEXT Scholarships (Japan)
The
MEXT Scholarships, offered by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture,
Sports, Science and Technology, are a golden ticket for international students
aiming to study in Japan. Since its establishment in 1954, this esteemed
program has welcomed over 100,000 students from around 160 countries, providing
them with an opportunity to pursue high-quality education in Japan.
Coverage
and Degree Levels
- Undergraduate
Level:
The undergraduate scholarship typically spans 5 years, which includes 1
year of preparatory study in the Japanese language and other relevant
subjects. Students can choose to study a wide range of fields, covering
both the social sciences and humanities, as well as natural sciences. Upon
successful completion, they are awarded a bachelor's degree. For instance,
an international student interested in Japanese literature or engineering
can find suitable undergraduate programs under this scholarship.
- Master's and
Doctoral Level:
The research scholarship is designed for those with the aspiration of
obtaining a master’s, doctoral, or professional graduate degree in Japan.
If needed, a six-month Japanese language preparatory course will be
provided. This is especially beneficial for students whose native language
is not Japanese but who plan to conduct research in Japan.
- Teacher
Training and Japanese Studies: MEXT also offers scholarships to teachers
outside of Japan who wish to conduct research on school education at
designated Japanese universities as “teacher training students”.
Additionally, scholarships are available for students outside of Japan who
want to study for one year at designated Japanese universities as
“Japanese studies students” to deepen their understanding of the Japanese
language, affairs, and culture.
Benefits
- Financial
Support:
- Tuition Fees: All
tuition fees are covered, eliminating a major financial burden for
students. This allows them to focus entirely on their studies without the
stress of hefty educational costs.
- Monthly
Allowance:
The amount varies depending on the degree level. Undergraduate students
receive a monthly allowance of 117,000 yen (subject to change), while
graduate - level students, such as those in master's and doctoral
programs, get 143,000 yen per month. This allowance helps students cover
their living expenses, including rent, food, and daily necessities.
- Travel
Expenses:
Return airfares between the international airport closest to the
student's place of residence in their home country and either Narita or
Haneda International Airport in Japan are provided. This enables students
from all over the world to easily travel to Japan to start their
educational journey.
- Additional
Perks:
Although not always explicitly stated as a monetary benefit, being a MEXT
scholar often comes with access to various academic and cultural resources
in Japan. This may include priority access to certain research facilities,
invitations to exclusive academic seminars, and opportunities to
participate in cultural exchange programs.
Application
Process and Requirements
- Eligibility
Criteria:
- Nationality: Varies
depending on the application route. For example, some applications are
open to specific nationalities applying through their local Japanese
embassies or consulates. In general, applicants cannot hold Japanese
citizenship. In cases of dual citizenship (e.g., Japan and another
country), the Japanese citizenship must be renounced by the date of
arrival in Japan.
- Age Limit: For
different scholarship categories, there are specific age requirements.
For example, for some undergraduate - level applications, students may
need to be born within a certain range of years.
- Academic
Prerequisites:
- Undergraduate:
Applicants aiming for social sciences and humanities majors are required
to take exams in mathematics, English, and Japanese (3 subjects in
total). Those interested in natural sciences need to take exams in
mathematics, English, Japanese, chemistry, and either physics or
biology, depending on their nominated area of study (5 subjects in
total). Additionally, students may need to meet specific requirements
related to their high - school academic performance.
- Master's
and Doctoral:
Applicants must satisfy the qualification requirements for admission to
a master's or doctoral degree course at a Japanese graduate school. This
usually involves having a relevant bachelor's or master's degree,
respectively, with a certain GPA. They are also required to submit a
detailed research plan, and some programs may demand English language
test scores, such as a TOEFL score of 80+ or an IELTS score of 6.0+.
- Teacher Training and Japanese Studies: Specific language proficiency requirements exist. For example, teacher training applicants may need to sit Japanese and English exams and demonstrate sufficient Japanese language proficiency to pass the initial screening.
- Application
Routes:
- Embassy
Recommendation:
Japanese embassies and consulates recommend candidates for MEXT
scholarships. Application periods differ by country, so students must
check with the Japanese embassy in their home country. After the
embassy's initial screening, successful candidates are then further
considered by MEXT for the final selection.
- University
Recommendation:
Some Japanese universities, like Tokyo Tech, recommend candidates for
MEXT scholarships. However, simultaneous recommendation through both the
embassy and the university is not allowed.
- Application
Steps:
- Review the
application documents for the specific scholarship category, paying close
attention to the application guidelines and required documents.
- Download the
necessary application forms and mark each document's number in the top -
right corner.
- Complete
- If
shortlisted, applicants will be required to sit for an in - person
interview and/or examinations at the consulate general of Japan or as per
the university's requirements.
The
MEXT Scholarships offer a comprehensive and attractive package for
international students who dream of studying in Japan, providing not only
financial support but also a chance to immerse in a rich academic and cultural
environment.
Coverage: Tuition, stipend, accommodation, airfare
Note: Offered by Japanese government; no IELTS often required
13. KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship (South Korea)
Level: Undergraduate
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly allowance, airfare, language training, insurance
Note: South Korea’s top science university
For Full details about this scholarship, you can visit our Home Page.
14. ETH Zurich Excellence Master’s Scholarship
Level: Master’s (Switzerland)
Coverage: Tuition waiver + CHF 11,000 per semester for living expenses
Note: ETH top-tier engineering school
For Full details about this scholarship, you can visit our Home Page.
15. Australian Government RTP Scholarships
Level: Master’s & PhD
Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend (e.g., up to ~$33-52k/year), allowances
Note: Research Training Program across Australian universities
For Full details about this scholarship, you can visit our Home Page.
16. Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
Level: PhD (Science & Engineering)
Coverage: Tuition, stipend, settlement allowance, airfare
Note: For top PhD talent in Singapore
For Full details about this scholarship, you can visit our Home Page.
17. Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
Level: PhD
Coverage: Stipend + conference & research travel allowance
Note: From Hong Kong Research Grants Council
For Full details about this scholarship, you can visit our Home Page.
18. Schwarzman Scholars (China)
Level: Master’s (Tsinghua University, Beijing)
Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, stipend, travel, insurance
Note: Global leadership program
For Full details about this scholarship, you can visit our Home Page.
19. Indonesian Government KNB Scholarships
Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD (Indonesia)
Coverage: Settlement allowance, monthly living stipend, health insurance
Note: For students from developing countries
For Full details about this scholarship, you can visit our Home Page.
20. Saudi Arabia “Study in Saudi” Scholarships
Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Coverage: Varies; generally full benefits in Saudi public universities
Note: Deadlines vary by level.
For Full details about this scholarship, you can visit our Home Page.
Summary Table
Level Suggested
Scholarships (Examples)
Undergraduate Jardine,
KAIST, MEXT
Master’s Chevening,
Gates Cambridge, Erasmus Mundus, RTP Australia, Erasmus Mundus
PhD Vanier,
Weidenfeld-Hoffmann, Commonwealth, Hong Kong PhD Fellowship, SINGA, Schwarzman
All Levels Turkey
Scholarships, Saudi “Study in Saudi”, Indonesian KNB Scholarships


