5 Scholarships That Come with Free Visa Sponsorship for International Students
5 Scholarships That Come with Free Visa Sponsorship for International Students (2025 Edition)
Studying abroad can be life-changing—but the financial and visa hurdles often stop many students before they start. Thankfully, several fully funded international scholarships not only cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs, but also include visa sponsorship, making it easier for you to pursue higher education in top countries without the stress of navigating immigration on your own.
Here’s a detailed look at five prestigious scholarships in 2025 that offer free visa sponsorship along with financial aid.
1. Chevening Scholarship (UK)
Country: United Kingdom
Level: Master’s Degree
Deadline: Typically around November (for intake the following year)
What It Covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living stipend
- Travel costs to and from the UK
- Visa application fees
- Arrival and departure allowances
Visa Sponsorship:
Chevening Scholars receive full support from the UK government to apply for a Tier 4 Student Visa, including guidance and paid visa fees.
Eligibility:
- Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country
- Return to your home country for at least two years after the scholarship
- Have an undergraduate degree
- At least two years of work experience
2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Country: Germany
Level: Master’s and PhD
Deadline: Varies by program and university
What It Covers:
- Full tuition waiver
- Monthly stipend (€934 for graduates, €1,200 for doctoral students)
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
- Language course fees
Visa Sponsorship:
DAAD offers full documentation and financial support needed for a German National Student Visa, including insurance and living funds (which is a visa requirement).
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- At least two years of professional experience (for some programs)
- Academic excellence
3. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
Country: United States
Level: Master’s and PhD
Deadline: Varies by country (usually between February–October)
What It Covers:
- Tuition and fees
- Living stipend
- Airfare
- Health insurance
- J-1 visa application and SEVIS fee coverage
Visa Sponsorship:
Fulbright provides sponsorship for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa, including assistance with documentation and coordination through the U.S. embassy or consulate.
Eligibility:
- Citizenship in an eligible country
- Strong academic record
- Leadership potential and public service orientation
4. Australia Awards Scholarships
Country: Australia
Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD
Deadline: Usually around April
What It Covers:
- Full tuition
- Return air travel
- Establishment allowance
- Contribution to living expenses (CLE)
- Health insurance
- Academic support
- Pre-course English (if required)
Visa Sponsorship:
The scholarship includes subclass 500 Student Visa sponsorship, along with all necessary documentation and health cover (OSHC).
Eligibility:
- Citizen of an eligible country in Asia, the Pacific, Africa, or the Middle East
- Commitment to return home after graduation
- Meet academic and English requirements
5. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
Country: Switzerland
Level: PhD, Postdoctoral, and Research
Deadline: Varies by country (usually August–December)
What It Covers:
- Monthly allowance (CHF 1,920)
- Tuition fee waivers
- Health insurance
- Airfare (in some cases)
- Housing allowance
Visa Sponsorship:
The Swiss Federal Commission for Scholarships provides the required documents and financial proof to obtain a Swiss National D Visa for long-term study.
Eligibility:
- Strong academic background
- Research proposal or invitation from a Swiss professor
- Proficiency in the language of instruction
Final Thoughts
All of these scholarships do more than just fund your studies—they offer comprehensive support, including free visa sponsorship, which removes a significant barrier for many international students.
Here’s how to boost your chances:
- Start your application early (at least 6–12 months ahead).
- Tailor your personal statement or research proposal.
- Secure strong letters of recommendation.
- Highlight leadership, volunteer work, or professional achievements.
Pursuing a fully-funded international degree without visa worries is possible—it starts with the right scholarship and a well-prepared application.