Fully funded scholarships for computer science students are more available than ever in 2025. Whether you’re aiming for a degree in AI, software engineering, cybersecurity, or data science, numerous top universities and governments around the world offer full funding that covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and even research support.
This in-depth, up-to-date guide will walk you through
- The best fully funded scholarships for computer science students
- Global destinations where you can study computer science for free
- Eligibility requirements and required documents
- Strategic application tips to help you win
- FAQs and official links to apply
Let’s explore how you can earn your degree tuition-free and join the next generation of global tech leaders.
Why Pursue Computer Science Abroad with a Fully Funded Scholarship?
Studying computer science abroad gives you access to:
- Advanced research environments in AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity
- Global innovation hubs like Silicon Valley, Tokyo, and Berlin
- Multinational internships and employment opportunities
- Global peer networks that support entrepreneurship and tech startups
The right scholarship eliminates financial barriers, letting you focus on learning and career growth.
Best Fully Funded Scholarships for Computer Science Students (2025)
Here’s a breakdown of the top opportunities by country and region:
TU Delft Excellence Scholarships (Netherlands)
- Program: Justus & Louise van Effen Scholarships
- Level: Master’s in Computer Science and Engineering
- Coverage: Full tuition + €30,000/year living and travel allowance
- Deadline: December
- Website: tudelft.nl
TU Delft is known for cutting-edge work in robotics, AI, software systems, and sustainability tech.
MEXT Scholarship (Japan)
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, round-trip airfare
- Deadline: April (varies by embassy or university)
- Website: studyinjapan.go.jp
Ideal for those interested in embedded systems, machine learning, and natural language processing.
DAAD EPOS & Research Grants (Germany)
- Programs: DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) and Research Grants
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, stipend (€934–1,200/month), travel, insurance
- Deadline: August–October (varies)
- Website: daad.de
Study in leading public universities in Germany’s thriving computer science ecosystem.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
- Level: PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, visa, stipend, airfare
- Eligibility: Non-UK citizens at the University of Cambridge
- Deadline: October–December
- Website: gatescambridge.org
Ideal for research in theoretical computer science, HCI, or AI for global impact.
Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford (USA)
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, stipend, travel, leadership development
- Deadline: October
- Website: knight-hennessy.stanford.edu
Offers access to Silicon Valley and Stanford’s top-tier CS faculty.
University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships (Australia)
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, AUD 37,000+/year stipend, relocation support
- Deadline: October 2024
- Website: unimelb.edu.au
Research-focused programs in data science, networking, and cloud computing.
Comparison Table—Fully Funded CS Scholarships
Scholarship | Country | Degree Level | Coverage | Deadline |
---|---|---|---|---|
TU Delft Excellence | Netherlands | Master’s | Full tuition + €30,000 | December |
MEXT | Japan | UG, Master’s, PhD | Full tuition, stipend, travel | April |
DAAD EPOS | Germany | Master’s, PhD | Tuition, stipend, travel | Oct |
Gates Cambridge | UK | PhD | Tuition, stipend, visa, airfare | Dec |
Knight-Hennessy | USA | Master’s, PhD | Full tuition, stipend, travel | Oct |
Melbourne GRSP | Australia | Master’s, PhD | Tuition + AUD 37,000 | Oct |
More Global CS Scholarships
Program | Country | Level | Coverage |
Erasmus Mundus (Data Science) | EU | Master’s | Full tuition, travel, and stipend |
Fulbright Foreign Student | USA | Master’s & PhD | Tuition, living, travel |
Chevening Scholarships | UK | Master’s | Tuition, stipend, airfare |
ETH Zurich Excellence | Switzerland | Master’s | Tuition + stipend |
GKS (Korea) | South Korea | UG & PG | Tuition, language training, stipend |
General Eligibility Requirements
Most scholarships require
- A strong academic background (First Class/Upper Second)
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/GRE or local equivalent)
- Strong motivation letter or research proposal
- Portfolio/GitHub (especially for project-based programs)
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)
Common Application Documents
- Passport
- Academic transcripts
- Standardized test scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- CV/Resume (highlight tech experience)
- Research Proposal (for PhD applicants)
- Project portfolio or GitHub profile
Top Application Tips to Win
- Start early—begin preparing 8–12 months in advance
- Customize SOP—Tailor each application to the program’s mission
- Highlight tech leadership—include hackathons, open-source contributions, internships
- Request strong references—professors, research supervisors, or industry mentors
- Don’t apply to just one target at least 3–5 scholarships to maximize success
- Use a clean GitHub/portfolio—demonstrate your real-world coding skills
Important Deadlines in 2025
Scholarship | Deadline |
TU Delft | December |
MEXT | April |
DAAD EPOS | August–October |
Gates Cambridge | October–December |
Knight-Hennessy | October |
Melbourne GRSP | October |
Note: Dates vary by country and program—always confirm on official websites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply without the GRE or IELTS? A: Some programs waive these or accept alternatives like Duolingo or medium-of-instruction certificates.
Q: Are there fully funded undergrad options? A: Yes. MEXT (Japan), GKS (Korea), and CSC (China) offer funded undergraduate scholarships in CS.
Q: Can I work while studying? A: In many countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and A, stralia—yes, usually 10–20 hours per week.
Q: Can I apply to more than one program? A: Yes, and it’s strongly encouraged. Diversify your applications.
Q: What if I don’t have a high GPA? A: Focus on strong research potential, relevant experience, or leadership to offset academic scores.
Related Scholarship Guides
- Erasmus Mundus Scholarships for CS Students
- DAAD Germany Scholarships—Full Guide
- No-IELTS Scholarships for International Students
- Top Scholarships for Women in STEM
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about pursuing a degree in computer science but want to avoid the financial burden, these fully funded scholarships for computer science students are your best bet.
With opportunities across Europe, Asia, North America, and Australia, and funding that often covers everything from tuition to travel, there’s no better time to apply.
Start early. Customize every application. Show your passion. Your future in tech is waiting—tuition-free.