√Scholarships Providing Full Tuition and Living Expenses

For many international students, the biggest concern when studying abroad is not just tuition fees but also living expenses such as accommodation, food, and daily needs. Fortunately, several prestigious programs around the world offer scholarships that cover both tuition and living costs, allowing students to focus fully on their studies without financial pressure.

These scholarships are highly competitive and usually target students with strong academic achievements, leadership skills, and community engagement. In this section, you’ll find some of the top scholarships providing full tuition and living expenses that can help you achieve your global education goals.

1. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (United Kingdom)

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most generous scholarships in the world. Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, it supports outstanding international students to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge.

Benefits:

• Full tuition fees covered

• Maintenance allowance for living expenses (approx. £20,000 per year)

• Travel costs to and from the UK

• Academic development funding for conferences and research

Eligibility:

Applicants must be citizens of a country outside the UK and apply for a full-time master’s or Ph.D. program at Cambridge.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

Beyond the financial support, Gates Scholars become part of an elite academic and leadership network, gaining access to mentorship, events, and global opportunities.

2. Rhodes Scholarship (United Kingdom)

The Rhodes Scholarship, established in 1902, is one of the oldest and most prestigious awards in the world. It enables exceptional students to study at the University of Oxford.

Benefits:

• Full tuition fees

• Annual living stipend

• Travel allowance to and from the UK

• Health insurance coverage

Eligibility:

Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and moral integrity. They should also be between 18–24 years old and from eligible countries.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

The Rhodes Scholarship doesn’t just fund education—it builds leaders for the world. Scholars join a lifelong community of influential alumni dedicated to making positive global change.

3. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (USA)

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University supports graduate students from around the world. It aims to develop future leaders who will address complex global challenges.

Benefits:

• Full tuition and associated fees

• Living stipend for housing and personal expenses

• Travel grant for an annual trip home

• Leadership development programs

Eligibility:

Open to all nationalities and all graduate programs at Stanford. Applicants must have earned their bachelor’s degree within the last six years.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

Knight-Hennessy Scholars receive comprehensive leadership training while studying at one of the world’s best universities, preparing them for high-impact global careers.

4. ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (Asia and the Pacific)

The Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP) offers full financial support for students from developing countries who want to pursue postgraduate studies in Asia and the Pacific.

Benefits:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly living allowance

• Housing subsidy

• Book and materials allowance

• Travel expenses

Eligibility:

Applicants must be citizens of an ADB member country, hold a bachelor’s degree, and have at least two years of work experience.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This program promotes sustainable development and regional cooperation, helping students return home with knowledge to drive economic growth.

5. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (Sweden)

The Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for students from around the world who wish to study a master’s program in Sweden.

Benefits:

• Full tuition fee coverage

• Monthly living allowance

• Health insurance

• Travel grant

• Access to the Swedish Institute Network for Future Global Leaders

Eligibility:

Applicants must be citizens of eligible countries and show leadership experience and academic excellence.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This scholarship not only funds your education but also helps you become part of a global leadership community dedicated to sustainable development and innovation.

6. Clarendon Fund Scholarships (United Kingdom)

The Clarendon Fund at the University of Oxford offers around 200 fully funded scholarships every year to outstanding graduate students from all around the world.

Benefits:

• Full tuition and college fees

• Annual grant for living expenses

• Access to academic and social support networks

Eligibility:

All applicants applying for a master’s or DPhil (Ph.D.) program at Oxford are automatically considered for the Clarendon Fund.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

Clarendon Scholars are chosen purely on academic merit and potential. Being part of this program also means joining a diverse community of global thinkers and innovators.

7. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Canada)

The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship at the University of Toronto recognizes exceptional international students who demonstrate leadership, creativity, and academic achievement.

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage for four years

• Full residence support

• Book and study material allowance

• Incidental fees included

Eligibility:

Applicants must be nominated by their high school and apply for an undergraduate program at the University of Toronto.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This scholarship is among the most prestigious for undergraduate international students in Canada, offering a fully funded world-class education experience.

8. Monbukagakusho (MEXT) Scholarship (Japan)

The Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship is one of the most well-known programs for international students. It supports undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. studies at top Japanese universities.

Benefits:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly living allowance

• Round-trip airfare

• No application fee

Eligibility:

Students must have excellent academic records and meet the specific requirements of their local Japanese embassy.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

MEXT promotes cultural and academic exchange while supporting global talent development in Japan’s world-class universities.

9. Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP)

The KGSP, now called the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), provides full funding for international students who wish to study undergraduate or postgraduate programs in South Korea.

Benefits:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly living stipend

• Airfare

• Medical insurance

• Korean language training

Eligibility:

Open to students from eligible countries with strong academic backgrounds and an interest in Korean culture and education.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

The GKS offers a complete study and cultural experience, making it perfect for students who want to immerse themselves in South Korea’s dynamic academic environment.

10. Schwarzman Scholars Program (China)

The Schwarzman Scholars Program at Tsinghua University in Beijing provides one of the most prestigious fully funded master’s programs in Asia, focusing on global affairs and leadership.

Benefits:

• Full tuition and fees

• Room and board

• Travel expenses

• Personal stipend

• Study tour in China

Eligibility:

Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential, academic excellence, and an interest in global issues.

Why It’s Worth Applying:

This program gives scholars a deep understanding of China’s role in global leadership, connecting them to high-level international networks.

Final Thoughts

Scholarships that provide full tuition and living expenses are more than financial aid — they are gateways to global experiences, leadership opportunities, and lifelong connections. Whether you dream of studying in the UK, USA, Japan, or Europe, these scholarships can make it happen.

To improve your chances:

• Start preparing early.

• Focus on your academic and leadership achievements.

• Write a compelling personal statement.

• Gather strong recommendation letters.

With dedication and preparation, you can earn one of these life-changing scholarships and study abroad without financial stress.