In the ever-competitive landscape of higher education, fully funded master’s scholarships offering $30,000 or more in value are a golden opportunity for international students. Many top programs in Europe not only provide generous funding but also do so without requiring the GRE, eliminating a common barrier for global applicants. Whether you’re pursuing engineering, political science, economics, or the arts, this guide outlines the best European scholarships for master’s students and how to apply effectively.
What Makes These Scholarships Exceptional?
- No GRE Required: Standardized tests like the GRE are often time-consuming and costly. These programs value academic merit and motivation letters instead.
- Full Funding: Scholarships cover tuition, monthly stipends, travel, insurance, and even family support in some cases.
- Top-Tier Universities: Programs span across the UK, France, Germany, Sweden, Netherlands, and Switzerland.
Top $30,000+ Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in Europe
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD)
- Value: €24,000 to €49,000 (~$26,000 to $54,000 USD)
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly living stipend, travel costs, and insurance
- Host Countries: Multiple EU nations (at least two)
- Key Benefit: Travel across countries during your study
- No GRE Needed: Admission based on academic transcripts, motivation letter, CV, and references
2. DAAD EPOS & Helmut Schmidt Program (Germany)
- Value: €22,000 to €35,000 (~$24,000 to $37,000 USD)
- Coverage: Tuition, health insurance, €934/month stipend, relocation, and family support
- Programs: Development, Public Policy, Economics, Engineering
- No GRE Required: Requires academic excellence, work experience, and clear career goals
3. Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden)
- Value: Over SEK 300,000/year (~$28,000 USD)
- Coverage: Full tuition, SEK 10,000/month stipend, travel grant, insurance
- Eligibility: Professionals and leaders from selected countries (including African, Asian nations)
- Focus: Sustainability, leadership, gender equity
4. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (France)
- Value: Up to €30,000 total (~$32,000 USD)
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, travel, insurance
- Fields: Science, Engineering, Economics, Law, Political Science
- Requirement: Nominated by a French institution
- No GRE Needed: Based on merit and leadership potential
5. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships (UK)
- Value: Full tuition, living stipend (~£12,000/year), flights, thesis grant
- Eligibility: Citizens of Commonwealth countries
- No GRE Required: Focus on academic merit and development impact
6. Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary)
- Value: Full tuition + HUF 43,700/month stipend + housing + insurance
- No GRE: Selection based on transcripts and motivation letter
- Programs: Taught in English in top Hungarian universities
7. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
- Value: Tuition, monthly stipend (~CHF 1,920/month), health insurance, travel grant
- Focus: Research-based master’s and doctoral studies
- Application Via: Swiss embassy in your home country
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Shortlist Your Programs
Choose 3–5 programs based on field of study, country, and funding structure.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificate
- CV (Europass preferred)
- Motivation letter (1,000 words max)
- Two recommendation letters
- Language test results (IELTS/TOEFL)
Step 3: Apply to the Host University
Most scholarships require you to apply through the university’s portal. If shortlisted, your application is forwarded to the scholarship body.
Step 4: Track Deadlines
- Erasmus Mundus: October to January
- DAAD: August to December
- Swedish Institute: February to March
- Eiffel: November to January
- Stipendium Hungaricum: December to February
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews
Some scholarships may include a video or panel interview. Prepare to discuss your motivation, leadership experience, and future goals.
Bonus Tips to Stand Out
- Tailor Your Motivation Letter: Make it specific to each program’s mission.
- Emphasize Leadership and Community Impact.
- Apply Early: Don’t wait until the deadline.
- Follow Formatting Guidelines: Always read the application instructions.
- Use Strong Referees: Ensure your recommenders write personalized, detailed letters.
Final Thoughts
Securing a fully funded master’s scholarship in Europe without the GRE is more than possible—it’s increasingly common. Whether you’re drawn to Sweden’s innovation hubs, France’s elite political schools, or Germany’s development policy programs, these opportunities open global doors. Start early, apply widely, and tell your story powerfully.
Ready to take the leap? Start preparing your documents and researching the programs that align with your goals. If you need help writing a winning motivation letter or tailoring your CV, reach out. Your journey to a $30,000+ master’s education in Europe starts now!