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Postgraduate education can be a life-changing experience, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. For many students, securing funding through scholarships can make all the difference. Scholarships provide financial support that allows students to focus on their studies and research, without the constant worry of tuition fees or living expenses. If you’re considering pursuing a postgraduate degree, it’s essential to explore the various scholarships available globally.
In this article, we will explore the top 11 scholarships for postgraduate students, which you can apply for by September 26, 2025. Whether you are pursuing a master’s, PhD, or other advanced studies, these scholarships could provide the support you need to achieve your academic and professional goals.
1. Chevening Scholarships – United Kingdom
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most prestigious and competitive international scholarship programs. Funded by the UK government, it offers full financial support for postgraduate students to study in the United Kingdom. This scholarship is available to students from over 160 countries, providing them with an opportunity to pursue a one-year master’s degree at any of the UK’s top universities.
To be eligible, applicants must have a strong academic background, leadership potential, and a commitment to returning to their home country after their studies. Applications for the 2025 cohort will open in August 2025, so it’s essential to start preparing your application well in advance.
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees – European Union
Erasmus Mundus offers scholarships for students from around the world who wish to study in Europe. This program funds students to undertake master’s degrees in a variety of fields, with study periods at multiple universities across different European countries. The scholarships cover tuition fees, travel costs, and a monthly allowance.
Applicants can apply for a range of different programs across the Erasmus Mundus initiative. As the deadline for applications often varies, it’s important to check the specific course you are interested in for exact details.
3. Fulbright Program – United States
The Fulbright Program is one of the most well-known and respected scholarship programs globally. It offers scholarships for international students to pursue postgraduate studies in the United States. Funded by the U.S. government, this program aims to promote mutual understanding between nations through educational exchange.
The Fulbright Program is highly competitive, and applicants need to demonstrate strong academic achievements, a clear study plan, and a desire to contribute to their home country after completing their studies. Deadlines vary by country, so students should check with their local Fulbright commission for specific deadlines and requirements.
4. DAAD Scholarships – Germany
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers numerous scholarships for international students to study in Germany. These scholarships are available for both master’s and doctoral programs in a wide range of fields. DAAD scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Germany is home to some of the world’s top universities, and with no tuition fees for postgraduate programs in most institutions, DAAD scholarships provide an excellent opportunity for international students to study in Europe. The application process for DAAD scholarships generally opens in the fall, and students are encouraged to apply well in advance of the September 26, 2025 deadline.
5. Rhodes Scholarships – United Kingdom
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programs in the world. It provides full financial support for postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. The scholarship covers all tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Rhodes Scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 24, and they need to demonstrate strong leadership and community involvement. The deadline for applications typically falls in the fall, so be sure to check specific dates for your country.
6. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – Canada
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are designed to attract world-class doctoral students to study in Canada. These scholarships are valued at $50,000 per year for up to three years and are available for students pursuing a doctoral program in any field.
To be eligible for the Vanier Scholarship, applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership skills, and research potential. The program is open to both Canadian and international students. The application deadline for the 2025 cohort is expected to be in November, so it’s essential to start preparing early.
7. New Zealand Scholarships – New Zealand
The New Zealand Scholarships program offers funding for postgraduate students from developing countries to study in New Zealand. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. The New Zealand government provides this funding to help students from the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to pursue their studies in New Zealand’s high-quality educational institutions.
Eligible programs include both master’s and doctoral degrees, with a strong focus on fields that are aligned with New Zealand’s development priorities. Students are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies to contribute to the development of their communities.
8. Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships – Australia
The RTP Scholarships provide financial support for international students who wish to undertake postgraduate research degrees (master’s by research or PhD) at Australian universities. The RTP covers tuition fees, living allowances, and health cover for the duration of the program.
Australia is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality research programs and vibrant academic environment. RTP scholarships are highly competitive, and the application process typically requires submission of a research proposal, academic transcripts, and a personal statement. The deadline for the 2025 academic year will be in early 2025, so make sure to keep an eye on the university’s website for specific details.
9. Gates Cambridge Scholarships – United Kingdom
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a highly competitive scholarship program for students who want to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a stipend for living costs, and airfare to and from the UK.
This scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving the lives of others. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional intellectual ability, leadership skills, and a desire to contribute to society. The application deadline for the 2025 cohort is usually in December.
10. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships – Switzerland
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are offered to international students to pursue postgraduate studies (master’s or PhD) at Swiss universities. These scholarships cover tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and travel costs. The Swiss government offers these scholarships to promote international collaboration and encourage talented students from around the world to study in Switzerland.
Swiss universities are renowned for their research output, particularly in science and engineering fields. The application deadline for the 2025 academic year will vary, so it’s crucial to check specific program details.
11. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program – Japan
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program offers scholarships to students from developing countries to pursue postgraduate studies in areas related to economic development at selected universities around the world. The scholarship provides full tuition, a monthly stipend, and travel expenses.
This scholarship aims to foster global development by supporting students who will return to their home countries to contribute to the development of their communities and economies. The application process typically opens in April, with a deadline in May each year.
Conclusion
Postgraduate studies offer a chance to dive deeper into your field, develop new skills, and open doors to more advanced career opportunities. However, the cost of education can often be a significant barrier. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships available for international students that can ease this financial burden.
The scholarships listed above are just a few of the top opportunities for postgraduate students worldwide. Each program has its unique eligibility criteria and application process, so it’s important to thoroughly research each one and start preparing early. Be sure to meet the application deadlines and provide all the required documents to maximize your chances of success.
Good luck with your scholarship applications!