How to Get a Full Scholarship to Study in Europe (2026/2027 Complete Guide)
Studying in Europe is a dream for many Nigerian students, but the cost of tuition, accommodation, and travel often makes it seem impossible. The good news is that there are fully funded scholarships that can cover all your expenses — allowing you to study in top European universities for free.
Europe is home to some of the world’s best institutions, including
University of Oxford,
University of Cambridge,
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and
University of Helsinki.
With the right scholarship, you can study in these universities without paying tuition.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting a full scholarship to study in Europe, including the best programs, requirements, and proven strategies to increase your chances of success.
What is a Fully Funded Scholarship?
A fully funded scholarship covers all major expenses, including:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Accommodation
- Travel expenses (flight tickets)
- Health insurance
Some scholarships even include research grants, visa support, and settlement allowances. This means you can focus entirely on your education without financial stress. Read also: What next after Jamb score?
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe
Below are some of the best scholarships Nigerians can apply for:
1. Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree is one of the most prestigious scholarships in Europe.
- Study in multiple European countries
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend (€1,000+)
- Travel allowance
👉 Apply here:
Erasmus Mundus Official Website
2. DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
The DAAD scholarship supports international students to study in Germany.
- Fully funded Master’s and PhD programs
- Monthly stipend
- Travel allowance
- Health insurance
👉 Apply here:
DAAD Official Website
3. Swedish Institute Scholarship
This scholarship allows students to study in Sweden with full funding.
👉 Apply here:
Swedish Institute Scholarships
4. Holland Scholarship (Netherlands)
Although partially funded, some universities provide full coverage through additional grants.
👉 Apply here:
Holland Scholarship
5. Finland Government Scholarship
Finland offers scholarships that cover tuition and living expenses for international students.
👉 Apply here:
Study in Finland
Top European Universities Offering Scholarships
Many European universities offer their own internal scholarships in addition to government programs:
- University of Copenhagen
- University of Oslo
- University of Bologna
- University of Amsterdam
- University of Edinburgh
These universities often combine tuition waivers with living stipends, making them excellent options for international students.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Scholarship
Step 1: Choose the Right Course and Country
Select a course that aligns with your academic background. Popular fields include:
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Information Technology
- Business Administration
Choosing a course related to your previous studies improves your chances of admission and scholarship selection. Read also: Ultimate guide to gaining admission in Nigeria
Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements
Most scholarships require:
- Good academic results (2:1 or strong 2:2)
- Valid international passport
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Recommendation letters
Some scholarships may also require work experience or research proposals.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
Your documents must be well-prepared and professional:
- CV (Europass format recommended)
- Statement of Purpose
- Reference letters
- Degree certificate
You can create a professional CV using:
Europass CV Builder
Your SOP is especially important — it tells your story and explains why you deserve the scholarship.
Step 4: Apply Early
Most European scholarships open between:
- October – January
- January – March
Late applications are rarely accepted, so always apply early.
Step 5: Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Do not rely on one application. Apply to at least 3–5 scholarships to improve your chances.
How to Apply Without IELTS
Many European universities accept alternatives such as:
- WAEC English result
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter
- University internal tests
Some universities clearly state their English requirements on their websites, so always confirm before applying.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Have a strong academic record
- Write a compelling SOP
- Get strong recommendation letters
- Apply early
- Choose less competitive courses
Additionally, tailor each application to the specific scholarship — avoid using the same SOP for all applications.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete applications
- Using a weak personal statement
- Applying late
- Choosing highly competitive programs only
Another major mistake is not researching the scholarship properly. Always read the official guidelines before applying.
Useful Resources for Scholarship Search
These platforms regularly update scholarship opportunities across Europe.
Need Help Applying? Contact Alphayem Educational Consult
Applying for scholarships can be confusing, especially with different requirements for each country.
Alphayem Educational Consult helps students secure admission and scholarships successfully.
- Scholarship application guidance
- SOP and CV writing
- School selection
- Admission processing
Contact: 07038543405
Conclusion
Getting a fully funded scholarship to study in Europe is possible if you follow the right steps and apply strategically. With the right preparation, strong documents, and proper guidance, you can achieve your dream of studying abroad without financial stress.
Start early, stay consistent, and apply to multiple opportunities. Europe offers countless opportunities — all you need is the right approach.
