10 Hidden Scholarships for Foreign Students You Haven’t Heard Of

When it comes to funding your education abroad, well-known scholarships like the Fulbright Program or Chevening Scholarships often steal the spotlight. However, there are countless lesser-known scholarships that can provide significant financial support to international students. These “hidden” scholarships are often underapplied for, meaning your chances of winning are higher. In this blog post, we’ll uncover 10 hidden scholarships for foreign students that you may not have heard of—but should definitely consider applying for.

1. The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships

The Rotary Foundation offers Global Grant Scholarships to international students pursuing graduate-level studies in areas aligned with Rotary’s mission, such as peace, disease prevention, and education.

• Eligibility: Must be sponsored by a local Rotary club.
• Award Amount: Up to $30,000.
• Why It’s Hidden: Many students aren’t aware of Rotary’s scholarship programs or the need for a local sponsor.

Pro Tip: Reach out to Rotary clubs in your area to express your interest and build a relationship with potential sponsors.

2. The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

The Aga Khan Foundation provides scholarships to outstanding students from developing countries who have no other means of financing their studies.

• Eligibility: Open to students from select countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
• Award Amount: Covers tuition and living expenses.
• Why It’s Hidden: Limited to specific regions, making it less well-known globally.

Pro Tip: Demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to improving your home country.

3. The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

This program supports students from developing countries pursuing development-related master’s degrees at participating universities worldwide.

• Eligibility: Must be a national of a World Bank member country.
• Award Amount: Covers tuition, travel, and a monthly stipend.
• Why It’s Hidden: Focused on a niche group of students pursuing development studies.

Pro Tip: Highlight your experience and interest in development-related fields in your application.

4. The Surfshark Privacy and Security Scholarship

Surfshark, a cybersecurity company, offers an annual scholarship for students passionate about privacy and security issues.

• Eligibility: Open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students worldwide.
• Award Amount: $2,000.
• Why It’s Hidden: A relatively new and unconventional scholarship.

Pro Tip: Write a compelling essay on a privacy or security topic to stand out.

5. The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme

France’s Eiffel Scholarship supports international students pursuing master’s or PhD programs at French institutions.

• Eligibility: Open to non-French students under 25 (master’s) or 30 (PhD).
• Award Amount: Monthly allowance and additional benefits.
• Why It’s Hidden: Limited to students applying to French universities.

Pro Tip: Apply through a French institution, as direct applications are not accepted.

6. The University of the People Tuition-Free Degrees

The University of the People offers tuition-free online degrees to students worldwide, with scholarships covering assessment fees.

• Eligibility: Open to students from any country.
• Award Amount: Covers tuition and assessment fees.
• Why It’s Hidden: Many students are unaware of tuition-free online universities.

Pro Tip: Apply early, as scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

7. The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program

This program provides scholarships to African students to study at partner universities worldwide, with a focus on leadership and community impact.

• Eligibility: Open to African students with financial need.
• Award Amount: Full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Why It’s Hidden: Limited to African students and specific partner universities.

Pro Tip: Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to giving back to your community.

8. The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme

Germany’s DAAD offers scholarships for international students to pursue master’s degrees in public policy and good governance.

• Eligibility: Open to students from developing countries.
• Award Amount: Covers tuition, travel, and a monthly stipend.
• Why It’s Hidden: Focused on a specific field of study.

Pro Tip: Highlight your interest in public policy and governance in your application.

9. The ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship

The Australian National University (ANU) offers scholarships for high-achieving international students to study in Australia.

• Eligibility: Open to international students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.
• Award Amount: Up to 50% tuition fee reduction.
• Why It’s Hidden: Many students overlook university-specific scholarships.

Pro Tip: Apply to ANU early and showcase your academic excellence.

10. The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals

This program supports international students pursuing master’s degrees in Sweden, with a focus on leadership and global impact.

• Eligibility: Open to students from select countries.
• Award Amount: Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Why It’s Hidden: Limited to specific countries and fields of study.

Pro Tip: Emphasize your leadership experience and commitment to global issues.

Tips for Applying to Hidden Scholarships

1. Start Early: Many hidden scholarships have early deadlines, so begin your search and application process as soon as possible.
2. Research Thoroughly: Use scholarship databases, university websites, and government portals to uncover opportunities.
3. Tailor Your Application: Customize your essays and CV to align with the scholarship’s values and requirements.
4. Seek Guidance: Reach out to mentors, teachers, or alumni who can provide advice and feedback on your applications.

Final Thoughts

Hidden scholarships are a goldmine for international students seeking financial support for their education. By exploring lesser-known opportunities, you can increase your chances of securing funding and achieving your academic goals.

Whether you’re passionate about public policy, cybersecurity, or community development, there’s a scholarship out there for you. Take the time to research, apply, and showcase your unique strengths. With persistence and determination, you can unlock the door to an incredible educational experience abroad.