1. Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)
The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK Government, offers full financial support to outstanding international students to pursue a master’s degree at any UK university. It covers tuition fees, travel costs, and a monthly stipend.Eligibility:
- Must be from a Chevening-eligible country.
- Possess at least two years of work experience.
- Hold an undergraduate degree that enables entry into a postgraduate program in the UK.
2. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are aimed at students from least developed and lower-middle-income Commonwealth countries. These scholarships fund full-time master’s studies in the UK, focusing on sustainable development and global impact.Coverage: Tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, and thesis grants.
Eligibility:
- Citizen or refugee from an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Must demonstrate financial need and academic merit.
3. DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (Germany)
The DAAD Scholarships support graduates from developing countries who wish to pursue development-related master’s programs at German universities.Benefits:
- Monthly stipend, travel allowance, and health insurance.
- Opportunities for language training in Germany.
- Bachelor’s degree with at least two years of professional experience.
- Motivation to contribute to the development of their home country.
4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships (European Union)
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Program offers students from around the world the opportunity to study in multiple European countries within one program.Coverage: Full tuition, travel, insurance, and monthly living allowance.
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- Strong academic record and motivation.
5. Australia Awards Scholarships
Funded by the Australian Government, the Australia Awards provide opportunities for citizens of developing countries in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific to study master’s programs at Australian universities.Benefits:
- Full tuition, return air travel, establishment allowance, and living expenses.
- Must be from an eligible developing country.
- Commitment to return home and contribute to national development.
6. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)
This program supports students from developing countries pursuing master’s programs in development-related fields at selected universities worldwide.Coverage: Tuition, travel, health insurance, and monthly allowance.
Eligibility:
- Citizen of a World Bank member developing country.
- Minimum of three years of development-related work experience.
7. ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (Asian Development Bank)
The ADB–Japan Scholarship provides financial assistance to students from ADB’s developing member countries to pursue postgraduate studies in economics, management, science, and technology.Benefits:
- Full tuition, housing, books, travel, and monthly allowance.
- From an ADB developing member country.
- Admitted to an approved institution under the program.
8. Rotary Foundation Global Grants
The Rotary Foundation Global Grants fund graduate-level coursework and research in areas related to peace, disease prevention, water and sanitation, maternal health, and economic development.Coverage: Tuition, travel, and living expenses.
Eligibility:
- Admission to a recognized graduate program aligned with Rotary’s focus areas.
- Demonstrated commitment to community service.
9. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program
The Aga Khan Foundation offers limited scholarships for outstanding students from developing countries who lack other financial means to pursue master’s studies.Type: 50% grant and 50% loan basis.
Eligibility:
- Excellent academic record.
- Genuine financial need.
- Preference for programs that contribute to development in home countries.
10. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
The MasterCard Foundation partners with top universities in Africa, the USA, and Europe to provide full scholarships to academically talented but economically disadvantaged students.Benefits:
- Full tuition, accommodation, books, and mentoring support.
- Focus: Leadership development and community engagement.
Final Thoughts
These top master’s scholarships for developing country students open doors to world-class education and opportunities for global impact. Applicants are advised to start preparing early — gathering recommendation letters, updating resumes, and writing strong personal statements that highlight leadership, service, and commitment to development.A master’s degree funded through these prestigious programs not only transforms careers but also empowers recipients to create positive change in their communities and countries.
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