For thousands of aspiring international students, the dream of studying abroad is often hindered by one major factor: the cost. Tuition, travel, accommodation, and living expenses quickly add up, making higher education a heavy financial burden. But the good news is, in 2025, numerous fully funded scholarships are still open for applications, offering hope and opportunity to students around the world who need financial support.
If you’ve missed earlier deadlines or are still exploring your study abroad options, this article is your comprehensive guide to fully funded scholarships that are currently open — including what they cover, who is eligible, and how to apply. But don’t delay — many of these scholarships are highly competitive and time-sensitive!
What Does "Fully Funded" Mean?
A fully funded scholarship means all major expenses are covered, including:
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Tuition fees
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Accommodation
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Travel costs (round-trip flights)
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Monthly living stipend
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Visa and health insurance
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Books and research expenses
Some scholarships may also include language training or internship placements, depending on the program.
Why Act Now?
Scholarships are not just about funding; they also come with limited seats and strict deadlines. Some prestigious programs extend their application periods to attract more candidates from specific countries, fields of study, or underrepresented groups. If you apply now, you still have a chance to join the 2025/2026 intake for top universities around the world.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships Still Open in 2025
Here’s a list of prominent international scholarships you can still apply for:
1. DAAD EPOS Scholarships (Germany)
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Deadline: Varies by course (many open until August 2025)
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Level: Master’s and PhD
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Fields: Development studies, economics, engineering, environment, public health
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Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend (€934–€1,300), travel, insurance, language course
Why Apply: DAAD is one of the world’s most respected scholarship programs. The EPOS track specifically targets students from developing countries who want to bring change to their communities.
2. Turkiye Burslari (Turkey Scholarships)
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Deadline: Rolling admissions for select programs (some open till July 2025)
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Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
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Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, airfare, monthly stipend, Turkish language course, health insurance
Why Apply: A generous and all-inclusive scholarship for students from over 160 countries. Turkey is emerging as a global education hub.
3. Romanian Government Scholarship
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Deadline: Applications reopened for select fields (closes in July 2025)
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Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
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Eligibility: Non-EU international students
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Coverage: Tuition, dormitory, monthly stipend; programs taught in Romanian
Tip: Basic Romanian language is required, but preparatory courses are included for free.
4. Hungarian Stipendium Scholarship (Reopened Round)
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Deadline: Late summer reopening for select countries
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Level: All levels
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Coverage: Tuition, accommodation allowance, health insurance, monthly stipend
Good to Know: Hungary offers excellent European education at a low cost, and this scholarship opens a door to top institutions like Eötvös Loránd University and University of Debrecen.
5. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships (UK)
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Deadline: Some partner universities still accepting late applications into July 2025
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Level: Master’s programs only
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Eligibility: Citizens of eligible low and middle-income Commonwealth countries
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Coverage: Full tuition, airfare, stipend, thesis grant, child allowance (if applicable)
Why It’s Unique: Supports students who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK.
6. Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarships
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Deadline: Some programs open until August 2025
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Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, Post-doc
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Coverage: Tuition, living expenses, health insurance, travel, and research support
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Eligible Regions: IsDB member countries and Muslim communities globally
What Makes It Stand Out: Emphasis on community development and post-graduation contribution to home countries.
7. Azerbaijan Government Scholarships
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Deadline: Applications accepted till mid-July 2025
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Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
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Coverage: Full tuition, visa, accommodation, meals, monthly stipend, airfare
Open To: Students from select developing countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
8. Brunei Darussalam Government Scholarship
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Deadline: Rolling basis with a July 2025 cut-off for some universities
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Level: Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s
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Coverage: Tuition, housing, meals, monthly allowance, return airfare
Universities Covered: Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali, among others.
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re interested in any of the scholarships listed above, follow these general steps to maximize your success:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Each scholarship has specific nationality, academic background, and language requirements. Visit the official website to verify.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Most scholarships require:
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Academic transcripts and certificates
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Valid passport
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Proof of English or local language proficiency
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Recommendation letters
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Motivation letter or study plan
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Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Step 3: Apply to the University (if required)
Some scholarships require you to first gain admission to a participating university before applying for funding.
Step 4: Submit the Scholarship Application
Always use official portals. Double-check application deadlines, document formats (PDF, Word), and submission methods.
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews (if applicable)
Some programs shortlist candidates for interviews. Be ready to explain your study goals, community impact, and leadership potential.
Tips for a Winning Scholarship Application
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Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Late or incomplete applications are rejected.
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Tailor Your Motivation Letter: Customize your essay for each scholarship. Show how your goals align with the program.
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Highlight Social Impact: Many scholarships value community engagement and leadership.
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Polish Your Language: Use clear, formal, and error-free English (or the required language).
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Use Recommendation Letters Wisely: Choose professors or employers who truly know your potential.
Final Thoughts
Even if 2025 is already well underway, it’s not too late to secure a fully funded scholarship. These opportunities are more than financial aid — they are doorways to international experiences, academic excellence, and life-changing professional paths.