Best Scholarships in Europe for International Students 2026

Europe continues to stand out as one of the most practical, affordable, and academically rewarding study destinations for international students in 2026. With world-class universities, low or zero tuition fees in several countries, and generous funding opportunities, including some of the Best Scholarships in Europe for students can pursue high-quality master’s and doctoral degrees without overwhelming financial pressure. Fully funded government scholarships, merit-based awards, and research grants make the region especially attractive for students aiming to study abroad with minimal cost.

In this guide, we highlight the Best Scholarships in Europe for 2026, covering fully funded, merit-based, need-based, and country-specific options. You’ll also find essential tips to strengthen your application, improve your chances of selection, and secure funding for your European education journey.

Why is Europe the smart choice in 2026?

Low or no tuition at public universities: Several European countries continue to offer low fees or no tuition for many programmes, which reduces the amount of scholarships needed to cover.
Strong, structured scholarship programmes: The European Commission and national governments fund schemes that bundle tuition, living costs, and mobility allowances. These programmes are well-established and transparent.
High international recognition: Degrees from European research universities carry weight with employers and with PhD admissions worldwide.
Mobility and networks. Joint programmes such as Erasmus Mundus let students study across countries while receiving a single scholarship package.

For students aiming to limit cost while gaining a reputable degree, Europe is a clear option in 2026.

Best scholarships in Europe for international students

These are some of the Best Scholarships in Europe that provide financial assistance, tuition support, and academic opportunities for international students seeking high-quality education across the region.

Best Scholarship Providers in Europe

Below are the best scholarship providers in Europe, known for offering financial support, prestigious awards, and pathways to study at top universities across the region.

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) — European Union

Who funds it: European Commission

Coverage: Full tuition fee waiver, monthly stipend up to €1,400 (approximately INR 13–15 lakh per year), travel costs, and health insurance.

Best for: High-achieving students applying to joint master’s programs conducted across multiple European universities.

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters is one of the most prestigious European scholarships for international students. It allows study in at least two different European countries within a single integrated program. Beyond financial support, it offers exceptional academic diversity and networking opportunities within the EU.

2. NL Scholarship (Netherlands)

Who funds it: Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science in collaboration with Dutch universities.

Coverage: One-time grant of €5,000 (around INR 4.5 lakh) during the first year of study.

Best for: Non-EEA students applying for bachelor’s or master’s programs at Dutch research or applied science universities.

The NL Scholarship (formerly the Holland Scholarship) is designed to attract international students to the Netherlands. While the award amount is modest, it can be combined with other university-funded scholarships to reduce overall costs. With globally ranked institutions, high-quality education, and a wide range of English-taught programs, the Netherlands remains a strong destination for students seeking some of the Best Scholarships in Europe.

3. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

Who funds it: Swiss Federal Government

Coverage: Monthly stipend of CHF 1,920 (about €1,950, or INR 21–22 lakh per year), full tuition fee coverage, and research funding support.

Best for: Postgraduate and doctoral researchers seeking advanced study or collaboration in Swiss institutions.

Switzerland’s government provides these scholarships to promote international exchange and research cooperation. Each year, scholars from over 180 countries receive funding to pursue master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral studies at top Swiss universities, making this one of the Best Scholarships in Europe for research-focused students.

4. Émile Boutmy Scholarship — Sciences Po, France

Who funds it: Sciences Po University

Coverage: Partial to full tuition fee support, depending on merit and financial need.

Best for: Students outside the European Union applying to Sciences Po’s undergraduate or master’s programs.

The Émile Boutmy Scholarship recognises international students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential. Awards range from €3,000 to €13,000 per year (INR 3–11 lakh), making it a strong option for those seeking the Best Scholarships in Europe. With Sciences Po’s global reputation in the social sciences, this scholarship offers exceptional value and international exposure.

5. University and Faculty Scholarships

Coverage: Tuition waivers, accommodation allowances, or combined packages valued between €9,000 and €17,000 per year (approx. INR 8–15 lakh)

Examples: Science@Leuven (KU Leuven), Leiden Excellence, Radboud, and Groningen Talent Scholarships.

Best for: High-achieving applicants who want to get into certain faculties or research-based master's programs.

Many leading universities across Europe offer their own scholarships for universities in Europe, based on academic merit, research potential, and program-specific performance. University-level options often have simpler application processes compared to large government-funded schemes.

6. National Government Scholarships (Italy, Portugal, Czech Republic, and others)

Who funds it: Respective Ministries of Education or Foreign Affairs.

Coverage: Tuition waivers, monthly living stipends, or both.

Best for: Students applying for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs through bilateral or government exchange programs.

Below are the best scholarship providers in Europe, offering financial support, prestigious awards, and pathways connected to some of the Best Scholarships in Europe for international students.

Quick comparison table

These options highlight some of the Best Scholarships in Europe for international students, offering strong financial support for a wide range of programs. From fully funded opportunities like Erasmus Mundus to country-specific awards such as the NL Scholarship and Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, these funding routes help reduce study costs and open doors to top academic and research pathways across Europe.

Scholarship	Approx. Value (INR)	Best Suited For
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters	INR 12–14 lakh per year	Joint master’s across EU
NL Scholarship (Netherlands)	INR 4.5 lakh	Bachelor’s or master’s in NL
Swiss Government Excellence	INR 20–22 lakh per year	Postgraduate researchers
Émile Boutmy (France)	INR 3–11 lakh per year	Non-EU students at Sciences Po
University Scholarships	INR 8–15 lakh depending on program	Faculty or program-based merit
National Government Grants	INR 8–13 lakh per year	Country-specific awards

Note: Scholarship values, eligibility criteria, and availability may change each year. Students should always verify the latest information on official scholarship websites before applying.

How to improve your chances

To improve your chances of securing the Scholarships in Europe, start by preparing a strong academic profile and applying well before deadlines. Highlight relevant achievements, tailor your motivation letter for each scholarship, and ensure your documents meet all eligibility criteria. Consistent preparation and early planning significantly boost your success rate.

Start early and track deadlines: Many EU and national calls close months before the intake.
Polish a focused SOP: Show clear academic or professional intent and explain how the scholarship will help you deliver impact.
Get strong references: Academic or professional referees who know your work are essential.
Meet language and test requirements: IELTS, TOEFL or local language proficiency may be mandatory.
Target multiple awards: Apply to a mix of EU, national, and university scholarships rather than relying on one.
Use an application checklist: Include transcripts, degree certificates, translations, test scores, SOP, CV, and referee contacts.
Consider consultant support. If you prefer guided applications, Career Gyan’s scholarship team assists with shortlisting, SOP review, and document checks. See our guide, How to Get a Full Scholarship.

Conclusion

In 2026, scholarships to study in Europe remain realistic opportunities for international students who prepare carefully and apply strategically. The strongest options come from EU programmes like Erasmus Mundus, national government scholarships, and university merit awards. Focused preparation & strong academics, a clear motivation letter, and complete, timely applications, greatly increases your chances of securing the Best Scholarships in Europe.

If you want personalised help, Career Gyan can assist with scholarship shortlisting, SOP editing, application tracking, and visa guidance. For financial support, we also work with (QCK Loans) one of the providers of the best education loan for abroad studies. Begin your European education journey with confidence; contact Career Gyan for expert guidance.