Dreaming of an international degree in sustainability or climate science without the burden of student loans? You’re not alone. As environmental concerns intensify globally, more universities and governments are offering fully funded scholarships to empower the next generation of climate leaders.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best fully funded scholarships to study environmental science abroad in 2025 and beyond, covering tuition, living expenses, research costs, and more.
Why Study Environmental Science Abroad on a Scholarship?
1. Tackle Global Challenges
Climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution require international cooperation. Studying abroad equips you with the cross-cultural knowledge and skills to lead environmental solutions.
2. Reduce Financial Burden
Fully funded scholarships save you thousands of dollars, covering tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and even travel costs.
3. Build Global Networks
Join an international cohort of environmental scholars, researchers, NGOs, and policymakers.
4. Access Top Programs
Learn from world-class institutions offering cutting-edge training in environmental science, sustainability, and ecological management.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Environmental Science Students
1. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
- Programs: Sustainability Leadership, Environmental Policy, Renewable Energy
- Coverage: Tuition, SEK 12,000/month stipend, travel, health insurance
- Eligibility: Citizens of eligible countries + work experience (3,000+ hrs)
- Deadline: February annually
- Website: si.se/en
Tip: Apply to environmental master’s programs in universities like Lund, Uppsala, or Stockholm.
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees
- Top Programs:
- MESPOM: Environmental Sciences, Policy & Management
- IMETE: Environmental Technology
- ACES: Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability
- Coverage: Full tuition, €1,000/month stipend, travel, visa, health insurance
- Eligibility: Open to all nationalities
- Deadline: October–January (varies by program)
- Website: Erasmus Mundus Catalogue
Pro Tip: Choose programs with German, Dutch, or Scandinavian university partners for high job placement.
3. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships (UK)
- Focus Areas: Climate Change, Water Management, Sustainability
- Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, thesis grant
- Eligibility: Citizens of eligible low- and middle-income countries
- Deadline: September–December
- Website: cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk
Ideal for students in the Global South interested in UK-based research or policy work.
4. DAAD EPOS Scholarships (Germany)
- Programs: Environmental Risk Management, Natural Resource Management
- Coverage: Tuition, €934–€1,200/month stipend, travel, health insurance
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s + 2 years’ work experience + from a developing country
- Deadline: August–November
- Website: daad.de/en
Recommended Universities: TU Dresden, University of Bonn, Heidelberg
5. Australia Awards Scholarships
- Fields Covered: Environmental Management, Natural Resource Economics, Marine Science
- Coverage: Tuition, airfare, stipend, insurance, research travel
- Eligibility: Citizens of eligible countries in Asia, Africa, the Pacific, and Latin America
- Deadline: February–May
- Website: dfat.gov.au
6. New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships
- Programs: Conservation Science, Climate Adaptation, Environmental Planning
- Coverage: Tuition, living allowance, establishment allowance, insurance, travel
- Eligibility: Developing country citizens
- Deadline: February
- Website: manakischolarships.mfat.govt.nz
7. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
- Programs: Environmental Policy, Sustainability, Development Studies
- Coverage: Tuition, monthly allowance, airfare, visa costs
- Eligibility: 2 years’ work experience, leadership potential
- Deadline: August–November
- Website: chevening.org
Other Notable Scholarships
| Scholarship | Degree Level | Focus Area | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium) | Master’s | Environment, Water Resources | Jan.–March |
| Orange Knowledge Programme (Netherlands) | Master’s | Water, Land Use, Climate Justice | Varies |
| Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary) | BSc/MSc/PhD | Environmental Engineering, Agriculture | January |
| Aga Khan Foundation | Master’s | Environmental Management, Development | March |
| Joint Japan/World Bank (JJ/WBGSP) | Master’s | Environmental Economics and Sustainability | March–May |
Eligibility Requirements (General)
| Requirement | Description |
| Citizenship | Must be from an eligible country |
| Academic Background | Bachelor’s degree in environmental or a related field |
| Language Proficiency | IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent English/German/French test |
| Work Experience | Preferred for mid-career scholarships (DAAD, SISGP, etc.) |
| Motivation Letter | Clear statement on the sustainability impact in your community |
| Letters of Recommendation | Academic or professional references (2–3 usually) |
Required Documents
- Academic transcripts & degree certificate
- Curriculum Vitae (Europass format recommended)
- Passport bio page
- Motivation letter or personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of English or other required language
- Admission letter (if required)
Application Timeline & Deadlines
| Scholarship | Estimated Deadline(s) |
| Erasmus Mundus | October–January |
| Swedish Institute SISGP | February |
| DAAD EPOS | August–November |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | September–December |
| Australia Awards | February–May |
| Manaaki NZ Scholarships | February |
Tip: Start preparing 9–12 months before your target year of study.
Tips to Win a Scholarship in Environmental Science
- Link Your Work to the UN SDGs: Especially SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 6 (Clean Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
- Highlight Local Impact: Projects like tree planting, river cleanup, or policy advocacy stand out.
- Use Metrics: Show quantified results (“trained 200 farmers on sustainable irrigation”).
- Build Experience: Volunteer with NGOs, environmental clubs, or field projects.
- Network with Alumni: Reach out on LinkedIn or attend info sessions.
- Tailor Your SOP: Don’t send generic applications—customize each one.
- Follow Up: Join webinars and mailing lists to track deadline updates.
FAQs: Environmental Science Scholarships Abroad
Q: Do I need a degree specifically in environmental science? A: Not always. Related fields like biology, chemistry, geography, or engineering are often accepted.
Q: Can I apply as an undergraduate student? A: Most scholarships target graduate-level programs. Consider Stipendium Hungaricum for a bachelor’s.
Q: Are these scholarships renewable? A: Yes, most are renewable annually if you maintain good academic standing.
Q: Can I apply to multiple scholarships at once? A: Absolutely. Just tailor your documents for each one.
Q: Do I need to return home after my studies? A: Many scholarships (e.g., SISGP, Commonwealth) have return-home conditions.
Final Takeaway
Environmental science is one of the most in-demand disciplines of the 21st century, and the world is ready to invest in the next generation of climate leaders. With these fully funded scholarships to study environmental science abroad, you can earn a degree while creating meaningful change.
Your Action Plan:
- Shortlist 3–5 scholarships that match your background
- Start preparing documents now
- Apply early (ideally by December)
- Follow up and prepare for interviews
Let your sustainability journey begin!
Related Resources
- Swedish Institute SISGP
- Erasmus Mundus Catalogue
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- DAAD EPOS Programmes
- Australia Awards
Need help with your statement of purpose, scholarship CV, or references? I’m here to help. Just ask!
