Scholarships for Students from Developing Countries (2024)

Top International Funding Opportunities for Higher Education

Pursuing higher education abroad is a life-changing opportunity, but for many students from developing countries, financial constraints can be a major obstacle. Thankfully, there are numerous scholarships designed specifically to support students from low- and middle-income nations.

These scholarships—offered by governments, international organizations, and top universities—provide essential funding for tuition, living costs, travel, and more. Below, you’ll find the best scholarships for students from developing countries in 2024, along with tips to improve your chances of success.

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 Top Scholarships for Students from Developing Countries

1. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)

This program offers fully funded master’s degrees in development-related fields at universities around the world.

• Covers: Tuition, living stipend, travel, health insurance

• Eligibility: Citizens of World Bank member developing countries with professional experience

• Apply via: World Bank Scholarships Portal

2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) supports postgraduate studies for students from developing countries in areas such as public policy, engineering, and environmental science.

• Covers: Full tuition, living allowance, health insurance, airfare

• Eligibility: Strong academic performance; from eligible developing countries

• Apply via: DAAD Scholarship Portal

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3. Chevening Scholarships (UK)

Funded by the UK government, Chevening offers fully funded one-year master’s degrees at leading UK universities, plus access to a prestigious alumni network.

• Covers: Tuition, living expenses, flights, visa fees

• Eligibility: Students from Chevening-eligible countries with at least two years of work experience

• Apply via: Chevening.org

4. Mandela Washington Fellowship (USA)

Part of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), this fellowship provides six weeks of leadership and academic training in the USA for outstanding young professionals.

• Covers: Program fees, travel, living allowance

• Eligibility: African citizens aged 25–35 with leadership experience

• Apply via: YALI Website

5. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)

These fully funded scholarships support master’s and PhD students from Commonwealth developing nations, especially those committed to contributing to their home countries.

• Covers: Tuition, travel, living expenses

• Eligibility: Students from eligible Commonwealth countries

• Apply via: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission

6. Australia Awards Scholarships

Offered by the Australian Government, these awards support undergraduate and postgraduate studies for students from countries in the Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East.

• Covers: Tuition, living costs, flights, health cover

• Eligibility: From eligible developing countries

• Apply via: Australia Awards

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7. Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden)

The Swedish Institute (SI) provides full scholarships for master’s programs in Sweden with a focus on leadership and sustainable development.

• Covers: Tuition, monthly stipend, insurance, travel

• Eligibility: From eligible countries; demonstrated leadership experience

• Apply via: Swedish Institute

8. OFID Scholarship (OPEC Fund for International Development)

This program supports graduate studies related to development (e.g., economics, energy, environment) at any accredited institution worldwide.

• Covers: Full tuition, living expenses, travel

• Eligibility: Nationals of developing countries with a strong academic record

• Apply via: OFID Website

9. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship

This unique program offers scholarships on a 50% grant / 50% loan basis to students from selected developing countries pursuing postgraduate studies.

• Covers: Tuition and living expenses

• Eligibility: Financial need, academic excellence, and no other means of support

• Apply via: Local Aga Khan Foundation offices

• Website: Aga Khan Development Network

10. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EU)

Funded by the EU, Erasmus Mundus provides fully funded joint master’s programs across multiple European universities.

• Covers: Tuition, living allowance, travel, insurance

• Eligibility: Students from partner and developing countries

• Apply via: Erasmus Mundus Catalogue

 Tips for Scholarship Applications

✅ 1. Start Early

Scholarship deadlines can be up to a year in advance, so begin your research and preparation early.

✅ 2. Tailor Each Application

Customize your personal statement and motivation letter to each program. Emphasize how your education will benefit your home country.

✅ 3. Gather Strong Supporting Documents

Prepare high-quality documents such as academic transcripts, recommendation letters, a resume/CV, and proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).

✅ 4. Highlight Leadership & Impact

Many scholarships value leadership, volunteerism, and your commitment to creating change in your community. Don’t forget to include specific examples.

Final Thoughts

With the right scholarship, international education can be both accessible and life-changing. Whether you’re aiming for a master’s in Europe, leadership training in the U.S., or development-focused study in Asia or Australia, there’s a program to match your goals.

Start early, stay organized, and be authentic in your applications. These scholarships are more than financial aid—they’re stepping stones to leadership, innovation, and global impact.