Pursuing higher education abroad can be a life-changing experience, but for many students, the high cost of tuition, living expenses, and even application fees makes it feel out of reach. Thankfully, numerous fully funded scholarships with no application fees exist to help talented students access world-class education without financial strain.
In 2025, opportunities for international students are more inclusive than ever. Many institutions and governments around the world now offer scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and other costs—without requiring any application fee. This guide explores the best of these options and offers a step-by-step path to securing a fully funded education, completely free from application charges.
Why Choose Scholarships with No Application Fee?
Applying to universities abroad often involves multiple costs:
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University admission fees (ranging from $50–$150)
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Standardized test fees (GRE, TOEFL, IELTS)
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Visa and travel expenses
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Application charges for scholarships
For students from low-income backgrounds, even the application process can be a major obstacle. Scholarships with no application fee eliminate that barrier, allowing students to apply freely and focus on their qualifications, not their bank balance.
Benefits of no-fee, fully funded scholarships include:
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Equal opportunity regardless of financial background
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Accessibility to a wider range of applicants
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Less stress and financial risk during the application process
Top Fully Funded Scholarships with No Application Fee (2025)
Below are some of the most prominent and reputable scholarships that meet both criteria: fully funded and no application fee.
1. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
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Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, travel, insurance
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Level: Master’s and PhD
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Eligibility: Students from developing countries with at least two years of work experience
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Application Fee: None
DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offers hundreds of scholarships each year. Germany’s public universities charge no tuition, and DAAD adds a generous monthly stipend.
2. Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden)
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Coverage: Full tuition, monthly allowance, insurance, travel grant
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Level: Master’s
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Eligibility: Citizens from eligible countries with leadership potential
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Application Fee: No separate scholarship application fee
While universities in Sweden may charge an admission fee, the scholarship application itself is free through the Swedish Institute portal. Students can apply for both simultaneously.
3. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (Europe)
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Coverage: Tuition, travel, installation, and a monthly stipend
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Level: Master’s (multi-country programs)
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Eligibility: Open to students worldwide
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Application Fee: None
Erasmus Mundus programs are funded by the European Commission. Students study in two or more European countries and receive a joint or double degree. No fees are charged to apply for the scholarship.
4. Türkiye Burslari Scholarships (Turkey)
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Coverage: Tuition, flight tickets, monthly stipend, housing, health insurance
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Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
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Eligibility: International students from over 100 countries
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Application Fee: None
Türkiye Scholarships offer one of the most comprehensive packages, and the entire application is free and centralized via an official government portal.
5. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University, USA)
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Coverage: Full tuition, stipend, academic expenses, travel
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Level: Graduate
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Eligibility: Students from all nationalities
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Application Fee: Waived upon request for financial hardship
Although Stanford’s general graduate application may require a fee, Knight-Hennessy applicants can request a fee waiver, making the process essentially free for those who need it.
6. Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program
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Coverage: Tuition, living expenses, travel, books, medical insurance
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Level: Master’s
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Eligibility: Citizens from ADB member countries
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Application Fee: None
Students are placed in universities across Asia and the Pacific. The scholarship includes everything a student might need—and no application fees are required.
7. University of People (UoPeople)
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Coverage: Tuition-free (students only pay assessment fees, which can be waived via scholarships)
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Level: Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s (online)
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Eligibility: Open globally
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Application Fee: Waived with scholarship request
Although not fully residential, UoPeople provides a tuition-free, accredited U.S. degree online, making it ideal for students who cannot relocate but still want quality education.
How to Find Scholarships with No Application Fee
There are thousands of scholarship opportunities globally, but identifying those with no application fee requires targeted research. Here’s how to narrow your search:
1. Check Official Scholarship Websites
Always go directly to the official website of the program or university. Look for clear statements about fees or fee waivers.
2. Use Scholarship Databases
Trusted platforms like:
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Scholarships.com
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DAAD.de
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Erasmus+ portal
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Opportunitydesk.org
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Scholarshipportal.com
These allow filtering by "fully funded" and often indicate if there's an application fee.
3. Contact Universities Directly
Some universities waive application fees for students from developing countries, or during certain periods. Email the admissions or international office to inquire.
4. Look for Government and International Organization Grants
Government-funded scholarships (e.g., Fulbright, MEXT, CSC) rarely charge application fees.
How to Improve Your Chances
While no-application-fee scholarships remove financial barriers, competition can be intense. To stand out:
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Strong Academic Record: Most fully funded scholarships are merit-based.
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Compelling Personal Statement: Explain your goals, values, and how the scholarship will help.
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Leadership & Volunteer Experience: Many programs prioritize social impact and leadership.
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Letters of Recommendation: Request strong, specific references from teachers or employers.
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Language Proficiency: Some programs waive language tests, but others require proof (e.g., English-medium instruction letter).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply to multiple no-fee scholarships at once?
Yes! In fact, it's encouraged to apply to several opportunities simultaneously to increase your chances.
Q: Are these scholarships only for low-income students?
Not necessarily. While some prioritize financial need, many are based on academic merit or leadership potential.
Q: What happens if I receive more than one scholarship?
You can often only accept one fully funded scholarship at a time, especially if government-sponsored. Check each program’s terms.
Q: Can I apply without standardized tests like GRE or IELTS?
Yes, some programs are now test-optional or accept alternatives like a Medium of Instruction letter.
Final Thoughts
Fully funded scholarships with no application fees offer an incredible pathway to international education—without the upfront costs that deter so many talented students. In 2025, more programs than ever are removing financial barriers to promote global academic equity.