√Education Grants for Tuition Only: Affordable Study Programs

For many international students, studying abroad can feel financially out of reach. However, not all scholarships must cover every expense to make a real difference. Some programs provide education grants that cover tuition only, allowing students to study at top universities while managing other living costs through part-time work or savings.

These tuition-only scholarships offer a perfect balance for students who seek affordable study options abroad without needing to commit to fully funded programs. Let’s explore the best opportunities that help reduce tuition costs and make international education more accessible.

1. University of Bristol Think Big Scholarship (United Kingdom)

The Think Big Scholarship at the University of Bristol is one of the most well-known tuition-focused grants in the UK.

Benefits:

• Covers 25% to 100% of tuition fees

• Available for undergraduate and postgraduate programs

• No repayment required

Eligibility:

Open to international students who demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership potential.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This program helps students access world-class education in the UK by reducing tuition costs significantly while allowing flexibility to manage other expenses independently.

2. Holland Scholarship (Netherlands)

The Holland Scholarship, funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, is designed for students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who want to study in the Netherlands.

Benefits:

• €5,000 toward tuition fees for one academic year

• Open for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs

Eligibility:

Applicants must apply to a participating Dutch university and meet academic and language requirements.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This grant is ideal for those seeking affordable European study programs with manageable tuition costs and globally respected degrees.

3. Korean Government GKS-U Partial Support (South Korea)

While the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is widely known for its full funding, the program also provides partial grants covering tuition fees for certain universities or programs.

Benefits:

• Tuition fee coverage for undergraduate and graduate levels

• Opportunity to apply for additional university stipends

• Access to South Korea’s top universities

Eligibility:

International students with high academic achievement and leadership qualities.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This is a great option for students who want to study in South Korea affordably, combining the tuition grant with part-time jobs or university housing.

4. Japan MEXT University Recommendation (Partial Tuition Coverage)

The MEXT Scholarship (University Recommendation Route) sometimes offers partial tuition coverage for select students, depending on the funding category.

Benefits:

• Covers partial or full tuition

• Available for undergraduate and graduate degrees

• Includes research opportunities and mentorship

Eligibility:

Students must apply through Japanese universities offering MEXT-recommended programs.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This path offers flexibility for those who may not receive full MEXT funding but still want access to Japan’s high-quality education at lower tuition costs.

5. Canadian Provincial Tuition Grants (Canada)

Several Canadian provinces offer tuition-only scholarships for international students, focusing on supporting merit-based applicants.

Examples:

• Ontario Trillium Scholarship (partial tuition coverage for PhD)

• Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship

• British Columbia International Student Tuition Grant

Benefits:

• Covers partial or full tuition costs

• Encourages research and academic excellence

Why It’s Worth Applying:

These programs allow students to afford Canadian education without bearing full tuition expenses, while still enjoying post-study work opportunities.

6. New Zealand Regional Development Scholarships

New Zealand universities offer tuition-focused scholarships for students from developing countries who aim to contribute to their home nation’s growth.

Benefits:

• Tuition coverage (partial or full)

• Open to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students

• Focused on fields like sustainability, agriculture, and education

Eligibility:

Applicants from developing nations, with academic excellence and leadership experience.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This program promotes affordable education while encouraging students to bring back knowledge for local development.

7. ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship (Singapore)

The ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship (AUS) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) offers a tuition-only grant to exceptional students from ASEAN member countries.

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage

• Opportunity for leadership programs

• Access to Asia’s top-ranked university

Eligibility:

Students from ASEAN nations (excluding Singapore) with excellent academic records.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This scholarship opens doors to premium education at NUS without tuition worries, making it one of the most prestigious tuition-only scholarships in Asia.

8. University-Specific Tuition Grants (Worldwide)

Many global universities offer internal grants focusing on tuition reduction rather than full financial support. Examples include:

• University of Melbourne Fee Remission Scholarships (Australia)

• University of Toronto Partial Tuition Awards (Canada)

• Sciences Po Boutmy Scholarship (France)

Benefits:

• 25%–75% tuition coverage

• Open to undergraduate and postgraduate applicants

• Renewable based on academic performance

Why It’s Worth Applying:

These options make studying at world-class universities more affordable while still ensuring high academic and networking opportunities.

How to Maximize Tuition-Only Grants

Even though these scholarships cover only tuition, students can still make the most of them by:

• Applying for housing support from universities or local organizations.

• Working part-time within allowed limits to cover living expenses.

• Combining tuition grants with smaller regional or departmental scholarships.

• Budgeting wisely and choosing affordable study destinations.

Final Thoughts

Tuition-only scholarships might not seem as attractive as fully funded ones, but they provide a valuable pathway to quality education at a fraction of the cost. They’re ideal for students who can manage living expenses but need help reducing academic costs.

With thousands of universities offering education grants for tuition only, studying abroad has become more accessible than ever. Whether you dream of pursuing a degree in Asia, Europe, or North America, these programs help make global education both affordable and achievable.