Top Fully Funded PhD Scholarships for International Students 2026: Full List
Finding genuinely Top Fully Funded PhD Scholarships for International Students — ones that cover tuition, a living stipend, and real support costs, not a partial grant dressed up as full funding — is harder than it should be, mostly because “fully funded” gets used loosely across different platforms. A university might call a tuition-only waiver “fully funded” when a PhD candidate still needs three years of living costs covered somewhere else, and by the time a student realizes the gap, they’ve already committed months to an application built around the wrong assumption.
This list exists to close that gap. It brings together Fully Funded PhD Scholarships for International Students that ScholarWaka has researched and verified across the UK, Sweden, and Italy in Europe; Singapore, China, South Korea, and Malaysia in Asia; and Canada, the United States, and Australia — spanning government-sponsored national programmes, EU-funded research networks, and individual university awards across science, technology, engineering, education, humanities, and the social sciences.
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Coverage varies by entry, and that’s stated plainly rather than assumed. Some scholarships on this list cover full tuition, a monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel — a genuinely complete package. Others cover tuition and accommodation without a separately stated stipend, which matters if you’re planning to fund three or four years of living costs on your own. Rather than label every entry “fully funded” and let you discover the actual coverage later, each entry states exactly what it includes, so you can compare offers on real terms instead of a marketing label. Whether you’re a fresh graduate starting your doctoral journey or a mid-career professional returning to research, every entry links directly to the full ScholarWaka post covering eligibility, deadlines, and how to apply.
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What Counts as an International Student Scholarship
An international student scholarship is funding specifically designed for students studying outside their home country — distinct from domestic or “home” scholarships, which are typically restricted to citizens or permanent residents of the host country and usually carry lower award values, since domestic students already pay reduced local tuition rates that international students don’t qualify for. International scholarships exist because international tuition is substantially higher than domestic tuition almost everywhere, and because host governments, universities, and research bodies actively compete for strong international researchers, particularly at the PhD level, where a candidate’s research output benefits the funding institution directly.
These scholarships generally fall into three categories, and understanding which one you’re looking at changes what to expect. Government scholarships, like Malaysia’s MIS or the Croatia Government Scholarship, are funded by a national government specifically to attract international talent to that country’s universities, and often carry a mobility or return requirement. University scholarships, like the University of Leeds Doctoral Scholarships or UCL’s Biosciences programme, are funded directly by the institution from its own research budget or endowment, and typically don’t carry the same conditions as a government scholarship would.
Research network scholarships, like EDICT’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network, are funded by a supranational body — the EU, in EDICT’s case — to support a specific multi-institution research programme, and usually come with strict eligibility rules like mobility requirements that don’t apply to standard university or government awards. Knowing which category a scholarship falls into tells you what kind of commitment, restriction, or opportunity comes attached to the funding, beyond just the dollar amount.
Top Fully Funded PhD Scholarships for International Students Summary
| SCHOLARSHIP | HOST COUNTRY | COVERAGE |
|---|---|---|
| University of Sydney Australian Government Scholarships | Australia | Full Tuition + Annual Stipend + Health Cover |
| EDICT PhD Scholarship | Ireland, UK, Netherlands, France, Spain, Croatia, Switzerland | Living Allowance (€4,010/month) + Mobility + Research Funding |
| Churchill Cambridge Scholarship | United Kingdom | Full Tuition + Stipend + Travel Allowance |
| Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM) PhD Scholarship | Italy | Full Tuition + Accommodation + Monthly Stipend |
| Kazakhstan Government Scholarship | Kazakhstan | Full Tuition |
| Australian Government RTP Scholarship | Australia | Full Tuition + Stipend (varies by university) + Research Allowances |
| University of Strathclyde Global Research Scholarship | United Kingdom | Full Tuition (up to 36 months) |
| Biosciences Graduate Training Assistant Scholarship | United Kingdom | Full Tuition + Living Stipend |
| Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships | New Zealand | Full Tuition + English Training + Visa & Medical Costs |
| Uppsala University PhD Scholarship | Sweden | Salary + Full Tuition |
| Xiamen University New International Students Scholarships | China | Full Tuition + Free Accommodation + Monthly Stipend |
| Kookmin University Global Korea Scholarship | South Korea | Full Tuition + Monthly Allowance + Korean Language Training |
| University of Leeds Doctoral Scholarships | United Kingdom | Full Tuition + Annual Stipend |
| A*STAR National Science Scholarship (BS-PhD) | Singapore | Full Tuition + Stipend + Research Funding |
| A*STAR National Science Scholarship (PhD) | Singapore | Full Tuition + Living Allowance |
| SOAS University of London Teaching Scholarships | United Kingdom | Full Tuition + Stipend (teaching contribution required) |
| SOAS University of London Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship | United Kingdom | Full Tuition + Living Stipend |
| Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) | Malaysia | Full Tuition + Monthly Stipend + Accommodation + Airfare |
| Aalborg University PhD Scholarships | Denmark | Salary + Full Tuition |
| Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) International Scholarship | China | Full Tuition + Free Accommodation + Monthly Stipend |
| Croatia Government Scholarships | Croatia | Full Tuition + Accommodation + Monthly Stipend |
1. University of Sydney Australian Government Scholarships
The University of Sydney administers its own allocation of the Australian Government’s Research Training Program (RTP), funding Master’s by Research and PhD candidates with full tuition coverage, an annual living stipend, and Overseas Student Health Cover for the duration of the research degree. It’s open to applicants of any nationality, and because places are awarded competitively within Sydney’s own research faculties, a strong research proposal and a confirmed supervisor carry as much weight as academic transcripts.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ University of Sydney Australian Government Scholarships
- Host Country ⇒ Australia
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for University of Sydney Australian Government Scholarships Application Process
2. EDICT PhD Opportunities in Europe
The EDICT Doctoral Network offers 16 fully funded PhD positions across seven institutions in Ireland, the UK, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Croatia, and Switzerland, funded through the EU’s Horizon Europe programme to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion in clinical trials. Applications for this cohort closed March 30, 2026, but the 36-month positions — paying a living allowance of €4,010/month gross plus mobility and research funding — are worth knowing about ahead of the next recruitment round.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ EDICT PhD Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ European Countries
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for EDICT PhD Scholarship Application Process
3. Churchill Cambridge Scholarship
The Churchill Cambridge Scholarship is offered through Churchill College at the University of Cambridge, funding exceptional doctoral candidates with full tuition, a living stipend, and a travel allowance. It’s built specifically for international students pursuing a PhD at Cambridge, and covers the full cost of doctoral study rather than a partial contribution.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Churchill Cambridge Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ United Kingdom (UK)
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Churchill Cambridge Scholarship Application Process
4. Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM) PhD Scholarship
The Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM) PhD Scholarship is a fully funded doctoral opportunity in Naples, Italy, for international students pursuing a PhD across a range of disciplines. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend, structured as a complete funding package rather than a partial contribution toward doctoral study.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM) PhD Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ Italy
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM) Application Process
5. Kazakhstan Government Scholarship
The Kazakhstan Government offers fully funded scholarships for international students to study at universities in Kazakhstan, with a limited allocation of 10 grants specifically for PhD applicants — a small enough number that competition for these places is genuinely high. It covers full tuition fees and is open to applicants of any nationality.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Kazakhstan Government Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ Kazakhstan
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Kazakhstan Government Scholarship Application Process
6. Australian Government RTP Scholarship
The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship supports international students pursuing PhD degrees at participating Australian universities. It covers full tuition fees, provides an annual living stipend, and includes research-related allowances — the exact stipend amount is set per university rather than centrally, so it varies depending on where you apply.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Australian Government RTP Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ Australia
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Australian Government RTP Application Process
7. University of Strathclyde Global Research Scholarship
The University of Strathclyde Business School offers up to nine fully funded PhD scholarships, open to both home and international students pursuing doctoral research. It covers full tuition fees for the duration of the programme, up to a maximum of 36 months, across subjects including Business, Economics, Finance, and Marketing — giving candidates a genuine three-year runway to complete a PhD without the pressure of self-funding partway through.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ University of Strathclyde Global Research Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ United Kingdom (UK)
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for University of Strathclyde Global Research Application Process
8. Biosciences Graduate Training Assistant Scholarship
Hosted by University College London (UCL), this four-year fully funded PhD programme combines doctoral research with hands-on teaching experience in the Division of Biosciences. It covers tuition fees and a living stipend, while also preparing scholars for future academic careers through structured teaching involvement most standard PhD funding doesn’t include.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Biosciences Graduate Training Assistant Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ United Kingdom (UK)
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Biosciences Graduate Training Assistant Application Process
9. Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships
The New Zealand Government invites eligible international students from Pacific and Asian countries to apply for fully funded scholarships, including PhD study, at New Zealand universities. It covers tuition fees, English language training where needed, and visa and medical costs.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships
- Host Country ⇒ New Zealand
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships Application Process
10. Uppsala University PhD Scholarship
Uppsala University, one of the oldest universities in Europe, is offering fully funded PhD scholarship positions in Education, located in Sweden and open to international students conducting doctoral research in the field. Successful candidates receive a salary, full tuition coverage, and access to Uppsala’s research facilities.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Uppsala University PhD Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ Sweden
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Uppsala University PhD Scholarship Application Process
11. Xiamen University New International Students Scholarships
The Xiamen University New International Students Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for PhD students seeking to study in China. Xiamen University supports international scholars with full tuition coverage, free on-campus accommodation, and a monthly living stipend — a rare combination for a Chinese university scholarship, since most cover tuition alone and leave housing and living costs to the student.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Xiamen University New International Students Scholarships
- Host Country ⇒ China
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Xiamen University New International Students Application Process
12. Kookmin University Global Korea Scholarship
The Kookmin University Global Korea Scholarship offers international PhD students the chance to study fully funded in South Korea. It covers full tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, and dedicated Korean language training support — a genuine advantage for doctoral candidates who arrive without existing Korean proficiency, since language barriers are one of the more common reasons international PhD students struggle to integrate into Korean university life outside their immediate research work.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Kookmin University Global Korea Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ South Korea
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Kookmin University Global Korea Scholarship Application Process
13. University of Leeds Doctoral Scholarships
The University of Leeds Doctoral Scholarships offer a fully funded pathway to a PhD in the United Kingdom, covering full tuition fees and an annual stipend for the duration of study. It’s open to both international and domestic students across a wide range of disciplines, and unlike scholarships tied to a single department, Leeds runs this as a university-wide scheme — meaning a strong doctoral proposal can be competitive regardless of which faculty it sits in, from sciences to humanities.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ University of Leeds Doctoral Scholarships
- Host Country ⇒ United Kingdom (UK)
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for University of Leeds Doctoral Scholarships Application Process
14. A*STAR National Science Scholarship
The A*STAR National Science Scholarship (BS-PhD) is offered by Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research, supporting students from undergraduate level through to the completion of their PhD at a university of their choice. It covers full tuition fees, a living stipend, and research funding — a rare structure that funds one continuous academic path from bachelor’s through doctorate, rather than requiring a student to secure separate funding at each stage.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ A*STAR National Science Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ Singapore
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for A*STAR National Science Scholarship Application Process
15. A*STAR National Science Scholarship (PhD)
The ASTAR National Science Scholarship (PhD) is for students who have already completed their undergraduate degree, offering a direct fully funded pathway to a doctoral degree. Supported by Singapore’s ASTAR research agency, it provides full tuition, a living allowance, and the opportunity to conduct research at partner institutions globally.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ A*STAR National Science Scholarship (PhD)
- Host Country ⇒ Singapore
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for A*STAR National Science Scholarship (PhD) Application Process
16. SOAS University of London Teaching Scholarships
The SOAS University of London Teaching Scholarships combine doctoral research with teaching experience, at an institution specifically focused on the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Located in London, SOAS provides scholars with full tuition coverage and a stipend in exchange for a teaching contribution within the university, letting PhD candidates build academic teaching experience alongside their own research rather than after it.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ SOAS University of London Teaching Scholarships
- Host Country ⇒ United Kingdom (UK)
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for SOAS University of London Teaching Scholarships Application Process
17. SOAS University of London Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship
The SOAS University of London Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship is a fully funded PhD scholarship in the UK, made possible through a partnership between SOAS and Hyundai Motor Group. It’s specifically for students with research interests related to Korea, Korean culture, or Korean studies, offering full tuition coverage and a living stipend.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ SOAS University of London Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ United Kingdom (UK)
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for SOAS University of London Hyundai Motor Group Application Process
18. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is a fully funded government scholarship for postgraduate study, including PhD programmes, at Malaysian universities. Funded by the Malaysian government, it covers full tuition fees, a monthly stipend, accommodation allowance, and airfare.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
- Host Country ⇒ Malaysia
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) Application Process
19. Aalborg University PhD Scholarships
Aalborg University (AAU) in Denmark offers fully funded PhD scholarship positions for international students pursuing doctoral research in Europe. AAU PhD scholars receive a monthly salary equivalent to a junior research position, full tuition coverage, and access to AAU’s research facilities and networks.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Aalborg University PhD Scholarships
- Host Country ⇒ Denmark
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Aalborg University PhD Scholarships Application Process
20. Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) International Scholarship
The Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) International Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for international students pursuing doctoral studies in engineering, computer science, and technology. The scholarship package includes tuition coverage, free accommodation, and a monthly living stipend.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) International Scholarship
- Host Country ⇒ China
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) Application Process
21. Croatia Government Scholarships
The Croatia Government Scholarships offer international students a fully funded path to higher education, including PhD programmes, at Croatian universities. Funded directly by the Croatian government, it covers tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
- Scholarship Name ⇒ Croatia Government Scholarships
- Host Country ⇒ Croatia
- Study Level ⇒ PhD
- Click Here for Croatia Government Scholarships Application Process
Disclaimer: All scholarship details, award values, and eligibility criteria in this post were verified from official sources as of July 2026. Information is subject to change without notice, and coverage details, deadlines, and eligibility for each scholarship should be confirmed directly on the official website of the relevant funding body or university before submitting any application. ScholarWaka is not affiliated with any of the universities, governments, or organisations listed in this post.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do all the scholarships on this list cover living expenses, not just tuition?
Most do, but not all. Most entries include a stipend, salary, or living allowance alongside tuition. The University of Strathclyde Global Research Scholarship, as currently listed, covers tuition only — confirm directly with the university whether a living allowance applies before assuming it’s included.
Is the EDICT PhD Scholarship still accepting applications?
No. Applications for this cohort closed March 30, 2026. It’s included here because the next recruitment round is expected, and knowing the funding structure now helps you prepare ahead of that announcement.
What’s the difference between a “salary” and a “stipend” on this list?
A stipend is a fixed award paid to support living costs during study. A salary — used for Uppsala University and Aalborg University — means the PhD candidate is formally employed by the university as a junior researcher, which is standard in Scandinavian PhD systems and generally comes with additional employment rights and benefits beyond a standard stipend.
Can I apply to more than one scholarship on this list at the same time?
Yes. These are entirely separate scholarships from different funding bodies and countries, so applying to one doesn’t affect your eligibility for another. Check each linked post for that scholarship’s specific eligibility and any conditions, such as mobility rules or return-service requirements.
Which of these scholarships are open to Nigerian students specifically?
Eligibility varies by scholarship. Several — including the Australian RTP-based scholarships, EDICT (subject to mobility rules), and most UK university scholarships — are open to applicants of any nationality. Government scholarships like Malaysia’s MIS and the Croatia Government Scholarship depend on that country’s current eligible-country list, so confirm directly on the linked post for each one.
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