√Scholarships Providing Financial Support for Fieldwork and Internships

Many international students dream of gaining practical experience while studying abroad. Fieldwork and internships are essential parts of education, especially in disciplines like environmental studies, social sciences, healthcare, and engineering. However, they often come with additional costs — such as travel, accommodation, and research materials.

Fortunately, several scholarship programs provide financial support for fieldwork and internships, helping students gain real-world experience without worrying about financial strain. These opportunities allow students to connect theory with practice and prepare for global careers while their expenses are fully or partially covered.

1. Erasmus+ Traineeship Grants (Europe)

The Erasmus+ Program is known for its strong focus on mobility and practical experience. The traineeship component supports students who wish to undertake internships or fieldwork in another European country.

Benefits:

• Monthly allowance (€400–€600) for living and internship costs

• Travel support

• Health insurance coverage

Eligibility:

Undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students enrolled in European universities participating in Erasmus+.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

Erasmus+ provides both academic and professional exposure while covering essential expenses during internships abroad.

2. DAAD Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE Germany)

The DAAD RISE Program offers funding for international students to gain hands-on research experience in German universities and research institutions.

Benefits:

• Monthly stipend for living expenses

• Travel and accommodation assistance

• Placement in top research labs

Eligibility:

Undergraduate students in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM).

Why It’s Worth Applying:

RISE combines academic learning with professional experience, providing complete financial support for fieldwork and internships.

3. Fulbright Research Grants (United States)

The Fulbright Program offers specific grants for students conducting independent research or fieldwork abroad.

Benefits:

• Funding for research materials and fieldwork travel

• Monthly living allowance

• Health insurance

Eligibility:

Open to graduate students and researchers with strong academic backgrounds.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

Fulbright promotes cultural exchange through research and fieldwork, making it ideal for students seeking hands-on international experience.

4. Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)

The RTP Scholarship provides support for postgraduate students conducting research-based degrees in Australia.

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage

• Allowance for fieldwork and research-related travel

• Annual living stipend

Eligibility:

Domestic and international students enrolled in research programs.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This scholarship funds both academic study and essential fieldwork, making it ideal for research-oriented degrees.

5. MEXT Scholarship for Research Students (Japan)

The MEXT Research Scholarship supports graduate students conducting research projects in Japan, including fieldwork and practical training.

Benefits:

• Full tuition and research fees

• Travel expenses for fieldwork

• Monthly stipend and health insurance

Eligibility:

Students from MEXT partner countries pursuing research-based programs.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

MEXT allows students to explore Japan’s academic and cultural landscape while funding every part of their research journey.

6. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)

This program offers comprehensive support for PhD and postdoctoral researchers, including funding for academic fieldwork.

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage

• Fieldwork and research funding

• Monthly stipend and housing allowance

Eligibility:

International researchers with an excellent academic record.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

It helps scholars carry out in-depth field studies with strong financial and institutional backing.

7. Chevening Fellowships (United Kingdom)

While primarily known for its master’s programs, Chevening also offers fellowship programs that include practical learning and professional placements.

Benefits:

• Fieldwork and internship cost support

• Monthly living stipend

• Travel, visa, and accommodation coverage

Eligibility:

Mid-career professionals and postgraduate students with leadership potential.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

Chevening supports international experience and professional growth through funded internships and short-term fieldwork.

8. Mitacs Globalink Research Internship (Canada)

The Mitacs Program allows international undergraduate students to conduct research internships at top Canadian universities.

Benefits:

• CAD 6,000 in funding for travel, housing, and living expenses

• Research supervision and mentorship

• Professional development workshops

Eligibility:

Open to undergraduates from partner countries with high academic performance.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

Mitacs offers global exposure in a research setting while covering all practical expenses during internships.

9. Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP)

This scholarship supports students pursuing development-related studies and research across Asia and the Pacific.

Benefits:

• Full tuition and living costs

• Additional funding for field trips or professional internships

• Travel and health insurance

Eligibility:

Citizens of ADB member countries with strong academic and leadership qualities.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

ADB–JSP bridges classroom knowledge and field practice, encouraging students to apply learning to real-world issues.

10. Gates Cambridge Scholarships (United Kingdom)

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides funding for graduate students conducting research or practical fieldwork.

Benefits:

• Full tuition and fees

• Funding for fieldwork, conferences, and research materials

• Living stipend and health insurance

Eligibility:

Outstanding international students admitted to the University of Cambridge.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

It supports both academic study and practical research, empowering global leaders to make meaningful contributions in their fields.

Why Fieldwork and Internship Funding Matters

Fieldwork and internships are key to applying theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. Financially supported programs:

• Remove economic barriers that limit participation in field research.

• Encourage professional growth through hands-on experience.

• Support travel and equipment needs for specialized projects.

• Build networks that enhance global career opportunities.

Such scholarships give students the freedom to learn beyond the classroom and turn academic insights into action.

Final Thoughts

Securing a scholarship that covers fieldwork and internship expenses is one of the best ways to gain professional experience while studying abroad. Programs like Erasmus+, DAAD RISE, Fulbright, and Mitacs provide full or partial financial support for students to engage in hands-on learning and research.

These opportunities not only strengthen your academic profile but also prepare you for international careers by connecting theory with practice. If you’re passionate about exploring the world through learning and experience, these scholarships can turn your ambitions into reality — fully supported every step of the way.