Didn’t win a scholarship? Here’s what to do if you don’t win a scholarship and still want to study abroad or fund your education.
It’s frustrating, disheartening, and even scary—but it’s not the end. Thousands of students miss out on their dream scholarship every year, but many still find affordable and even fully funded paths to study overseas.
This guide breaks down 9 powerful next steps to take if your scholarship application is rejected, including tuition-free universities, alternative funding, and what to fix for next time.
What to Do If You Don’t Win a Scholarship: Start Here
First, take a deep breath. A rejection doesn’t mean your academic goals are over. It’s just part of the journey. Many past Fulbright, Chevening, DAAD, and Erasmus scholars only won after multiple attempts.
Before we dive into alternative options, here are 3 quick rules:
- Don’t panic or take it personally
- Don’t give up after one try
- Don’t assume you can’t study abroad without that one scholarship
Let’s go through the most effective actions you can take next.
1. Apply to Tuition-Free Universities in Europe
If your scholarship fell through, why not choose a country where tuition is already free?
Top tuition-free destinations:
- Germany (public universities are free for everyone, including international students)
- Norway (free tuition for all students, but the cost of living is high)
- Finland & Austria (tuition waivers + cheap living options)
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s or equivalent diploma
- English or German language proficiency (IELTS or TestDaF)
Use StudyEU.org to compare free programs.
2. Look for Fully Funded Scholarships
There are hundreds of scholarships beyond the one you applied for. You can still study for free abroad if you apply strategically.
Alternatives to Try:
- DAAD (Germany): For development-related degrees
- Erasmus Mundus: For a 2-year master’s across multiple countries
- Stipendium Hungaricum: Full tuition + stipend in Hungary
- Türkiye Bursları: Fully funded scholarships in Turkey
- Australia Awards: For students from eligible countries
Apply to 3–5 scholarships per year to increase your odds.
3. Use Crowdfunding to Raise Tuition Support
Still want to attend a university that accepted you? You can crowdfund your tuition and living expenses.
Best Platforms:
Tips for Success:
- Share your story (video helps!)
- Ask for small donations ($10–$20)
- Show your academic achievements or letters of admission
4. Explore Education Loans with Low Interest
Not all loans are bad. Low-interest education loans can help you start school and repay later when you’re earning.
Global Loan Options:
- Prodigy Finance (no collateral for international students)
- MPOWER Financing (for U.S. and Canadian universities)
- Your local bank (ask about student loan terms)
Always read repayment terms. Try not to borrow more than your first year’s expected salary.
5. Work + Study: Paid Internships or Graduate Assistantships
Some universities offer paid work opportunities for enrolled students:
Common roles:
- Graduate assistant (teaching or research)
- Library or lab assistant
- Campus ambassador or IT support
You can also work part-time off-campus in most countries (20 hours/week during term).
Check visa work rules in your country of study (e.g., Canada, UK, Germany).
6. Reapply Next Year: What to Fix and Improve
Rejections often happen due to small but fixable errors. If you’re reapplying:
Improve These:
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Make it more personal and impact-driven
- Recommendation Letters: Choose referees who know your leadership well
- Experience: Add more community or volunteer work
- Documents: Follow templates EXACTLY (especially for DAAD, SI, Chevening)
Read: How to Write a Strong Scholarship SOP
7. Target Scholarships with Fewer Applicants
The most popular scholarships are also the most competitive. Instead, aim for:
- University-specific awards (e.g., ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship)
- Faculty or department scholarships
- Local government or regional awards
- Niche scholarships (e.g., for women in STEM, refugees, minorities)
Use Scholarships.com or Opportunity Desk to find smaller awards.
8. Use Government Aid and Grants in Your Country
Many countries have education support programs for citizens.
- Nigeria: TETFund, PTDF scholarships
- India: National Overseas Scholarships
- Indonesia: LPDP scholarship
- USA: Pell Grants, FAFSA loans
Ask your Ministry of Education or embassy about external aid.
Combine partial grants with tuition-free countries for low-cost study.
9. Consider Online or Hybrid Degrees with Scholarships
If relocation is not possible now, start online and transition later.
Try These Options:
- University of the People: Accredited tuition-free degrees
- Commonwealth Distance Scholarships: For master’s students
- Coursera & edX: Professional certificates & micro-degrees
This can also strengthen your next scholarship application.
Turn Rejection Into Redirection
What to do if you don’t win a scholarship? Pivot smartly. Use this time to explore backup options, gain more experience, or apply more strategically.
Many scholars didn’t win on their first try. What matters is your next move.
Your Action Plan:
- Shortlist 3–5 new scholarships now
- Improve your SOP and experience
- Explore tuition-free options
- Don’t let one “no” block your long-term vision
Let rejection fuel your comeback story. You’ve got this.
Related Resources
- DAAD Scholarships for Developing Countries
- MPOWER Education Loans
- Study in Germany. Tuition-Free
- Commonwealth Scholarship Site
- Chevening Official Website
