Dreaming of studying abroad without drowning in debt? While most international students set their sights on the U.S., U.K., Canada, or Australia, an exciting world of fully funded opportunities awaits in non-English-speaking countries like Germany, Japan, France, Norway, and China, where top-tier education often comes with zero tuition fees.
This guide reveals the best fully funded scholarships in non-English-speaking countries, including eligibility criteria, insider tips, application timelines, and key links to external funding portals.
Why Consider Non-English-Speaking Countries?
- Low or No Tuition Fees: Countries like Germany and Norway offer free education to international students.
- Globally Ranked Universities: Study at institutions like Tsinghua University (China), ENS (France), and Heidelberg University (Germany).
- English-Taught Programs: Many graduate and even undergraduate programs are offered in English.
- Language + Career Boost: Gain a second language while earning a world-class degree.
- Global Scholarships Strategy: These countries are investing in international students to increase global talent exchange.
Do I Need to Speak the Local Language?
Noβmost fully funded programs offer:
- English-taught tracks (especially at the masterβs/PhD level)
- Optional language prep courses (MEXT, CSC)
- Support for cultural and academic transition
That said, basic language skills can enhance your chances and daily life.
Top Countries and Fully Funded Scholarships
Germany
1. DAAD Scholarships
- Level: Masterβs & PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, β¬934/month, health, travel, insurance
- Language: English & German tracks
- Link: daad.de
2. Heinrich BΓΆll Foundation
- Level: Masterβs & PhD
- Eligibility: Academic excellence, social engagement
- Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend
- Link: boell.de
France
3. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
- Level: Masterβs & PhD
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, airfare, health
- Language: English or French
- Link: campusfrance.org
4. ENS International Selection
- Level: UG to Masterβs
- Coverage: ~β¬1,000/month + housing
- Link: ens.psl.eu
5. Ampère Scholarships (ENS Lyon)
- Level: Masterβs
- Coverage: β¬1,000/month
- Link: ens-lyon.fr
China
6. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
- Level: Bachelorβs, Masterβs, PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, housing, monthly stipend
- Language: English or Chinese
- Link: campuschina.org
7. Schwarzman Scholars (Tsinghua University)
- Level: Masterβs in Global Affairs
- Coverage: Tuition, housing, travel, stipend
- Link: schwarzmanscholars.org
Japan
8. MEXT Scholarship
- Level: UG to PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, Β₯117,000/month, airfare
- Link: studyinjapan.go.jp
9. JASSO Honors Scholarship
- Level: Exchange & degree-seekers
- Coverage: Monthly support
- Link: jasso.go.jp
South Korea
10. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
- Level: UG to PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, stipend, airfare
- Link: studyinkorea.go.kr
11. POSTECH Scholarships
- Level: UG/Grad
- Coverage: Full tuition, dorms, meals
- Link: postech.ac.kr
Norway
12. Public Universities (NTNU, UiO)
- Level: All levels
- Coverage: Tuition-free education
- Language: English graduate programs
- Link: studyinnorway.no
Russia
13. Open Doors Scholarship Project
- Level: Masterβs & PhD
- Coverage: Tuition + stipend options
- Link: od.globaluni.ru
Other Scholarship-Friendly Countries
- Italy: Invest Your Talent, regional tuition waivers
- Sweden: Swedish Institute Scholarships
- Spain: Erasmus+ in Spanish universities
- Finland: EDUFI and university-based aid
- Czech Republic: Czech Government Scholarships
Common Application Requirements
- Passport & ID
- Degree certificates & transcripts
- Motivation Letter/Statement of Purpose
- Recommendation letters
- Proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/others)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
- Health certificate or medical form (some countries)
Pro Tips for a Strong Application
- Choose English-taught programs if you’re not fluent in the local language
- Tailor your motivation letter to the cultural and academic focus of the country
- Include certificates from short language prep (if available)
- Use tools like Trello or Notion to track deadlines and documents
Country Comparison Table
| Country | Scholarship | Degree Level | Tuition | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | DAAD, BΓΆll | MA/PhD | Free + Stipend | EN/DE |
| France | Eiffel, ENS | UGβPhD | Full | EN/FR |
| China | CSC, Schwarzman | UGβPhD | Full | EN/CN |
| Japan | MEXT, JASSO | UGβPhD | Full | EN/JP |
| Korea | GKS | UGβPhD | Full | EN/KR |
| Norway | NTNU, UiO | UGβPhD | Free | EN |
| Russia | Open Doors | MA/PhD | Full | EN/RU |
FAQs: Fully Funded Scholarships in Non-English-Speaking Countries
Q: Are these scholarships open to all nationalities?
A: Yes, most are global. But some (e.g., DAAD) prioritize developing countries.
Q: Do I need to speak German, French, Chinese, etc.?
A: Not necessarily. Many programs are fully in English.
Q: Can I bring dependents (family)?
A: Some programs allow spouses/children. Check visa and funding policies.
Q: Can I work part-time while studying?
A: Yes, in most countries (Germany, France, Japan), with limits. Check visa terms.
Q: When should I apply for this year?
A: Most deadlines start from November to March.
Related Scholarship Guides
- Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
- Scholarships in Germany: No Tuition, No Worries
- Fully Funded Asian Scholarships
- Scholarships Without IELTS
Final Thoughts
Studying in a non-English-speaking country is more than an educationβit’s a personal and professional transformation. With world-class universities, full scholarships, and cultural adventure, your dream of global learning can start now.
Act early, choose wisely, and apply with confidence. Your global future awaits.
