Pursuing higher education abroad can be an exciting yet expensive dream for many students. Between tuition fees, living costs, and miscellaneous expenses, the financial burden can quickly become overwhelming. To add to the strain, many prestigious universities and scholarship programs charge application fees, which can deter talented students from applying—especially when applying to multiple institutions. The good news is that several fully funded scholarships with no application fee are available in 2025, offering exceptional opportunities without the financial hurdle of entry costs.
This article outlines some of the top scholarships that cover full expenses and waive application fees. It also offers insight into how students can take advantage of these cost-free, high-value educational opportunities around the world.
Why Scholarships with No Application Fee Matter
Applying for international scholarships and admissions often involves paying multiple fees for each university or program. These fees can range from $25 to over $150 per application. For students from developing or low-income countries, this can severely limit the number of applications they can afford to submit. Fully funded scholarships that do not charge application fees level the playing field, allowing all qualified students equal access to education and opportunity.
Key benefits:
-
No upfront cost to apply
-
100% financial coverage (tuition, travel, living expenses)
-
Global recognition and access to top universities
-
Opportunity for personal and professional development
1. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Degree Level: Master’s and PhD
Eligibility: Students from developing and transition countries
Coverage:
-
Full tuition (most German public universities are tuition-free)
-
Monthly stipend
-
Travel allowance
-
Health insurance
-
Family support (if applicable)
Application Fee: None
Highlights:
Germany’s DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) program is one of the most respected fully funded scholarships in the world. There is no application fee for DAAD, and many German universities also waive tuition and administrative charges, especially for DAAD scholars.
2. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Degree Level: Master’s
Eligibility: Citizens from select countries in Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe
Coverage:
-
Full tuition fees
-
Monthly living allowance
-
Travel grant
-
Insurance
-
Membership in the Swedish Institute alumni network
Application Fee: No fee for the scholarship
(University application may have a fee, but eligible students can apply for a fee waiver)
Highlights:
SISGP targets professionals with leadership potential. It focuses on sustainable development, gender equality, and human rights. While universities might require an application fee, students applying for SISGP can often receive exemptions.
3. University of British Columbia International Scholars Program (Canada)
Degree Level: Undergraduate
Eligibility: High-achieving international students with financial need
Coverage:
-
Full tuition and fees
-
Living expenses
-
Renewable for up to 4 years of undergraduate study
Application Fee: Fee waived for scholarship applicants
Highlights:
UBC’s International Scholars Program consists of several major awards, including the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award. The scholarship office provides instructions for applying without payment of the application fee if you're eligible for one of their scholarships.
4. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University, USA)
Degree Level: Graduate (all disciplines)
Eligibility: Open to all nationalities
Coverage:
-
Full tuition
-
Stipend for living and academic expenses
-
Travel grant
-
Leadership development training
Application Fee: No fee for the Knight-Hennessy application
(Note: There may still be a university-specific fee, but some departments waive it for Knight-Hennessy applicants)
Highlights:
This program is ideal for visionary students aiming to become global change-makers. Scholars are selected based on academic excellence, leadership, and civic commitment.
5. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships (UK)
Degree Level: Master’s
Eligibility: Citizens of least developed and lower-middle-income Commonwealth countries
Coverage:
-
Full tuition
-
Monthly stipend
-
Travel to and from the UK
-
Thesis grant (if applicable)
-
Warm clothing allowance
Application Fee: No fee required
Highlights:
These scholarships are jointly funded by the UK government and partner universities. Both the scholarship and university application processes are free for applicants.
6. Turkiye Burslari (Turkey Government Scholarships)
Degree Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
Eligibility: International students from all countries
Coverage:
-
Full tuition
-
Monthly stipend
-
Accommodation
-
Health insurance
-
One-time flight ticket
-
Turkish language course
Application Fee: Zero
Highlights:
This government-funded scholarship is one of the most comprehensive globally. It supports students from all over the world with a fully funded package and no application cost, including visa support and relocation aid.
7. University of the People (UoPeople)
Degree Level: Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s (online)
Eligibility: Open to all nationalities
Coverage:
-
Tuition-free model
-
Scholarships available to cover assessment and other minor fees
Application Fee: Application fee can be waived via scholarship request
Highlights:
Although UoPeople has small administrative fees, many students can apply for a fee waiver based on financial hardship. As the world’s first tuition-free, accredited online university, UoPeople is a viable alternative for students seeking debt-free education.
8. Hungarian Government Scholarship (Stipendium Hungaricum)
Degree Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and Non-degree
Eligibility: Students from over 70 partner countries
Coverage:
-
Tuition fee exemption
-
Monthly stipend
-
Dormitory placement or housing allowance
-
Health insurance
-
Visa support
Application Fee: None
Highlights:
Hungary’s flagship scholarship for international students offers a wide array of programs in English with full financial support and no application costs. It's a great choice for those wanting a European education.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Success
-
Start Early: Most fully funded scholarships have early deadlines—often 6–12 months before the program starts.
-
Tailor Each Application: Customize essays and personal statements for each program.
-
Prepare Strong References: Academic or professional referees who know you well can make a big difference.
-
Focus on Impact: Show how you’ll use your education to benefit your community or field.
-
Check for Fee Waivers: Even if a program lists a fee, many allow applicants to request a waiver based on need.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, students no longer need to spend a fortune just to apply for scholarships. Numerous world-class institutions and government programs now offer fully funded scholarships with no application fees, making international education more accessible than ever. These scholarships cover not only tuition but often living costs, travel, insurance, and sometimes even support for families.