Access to quality education remains a powerful tool for empowering women globally. To bridge gender gaps and promote leadership, many governments, universities, and international organizations offer fully funded master’s scholarships for women. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other essential study-related expenses.

In this Article, we explore the top fully funded master’s scholarships for women in 2026, including eligibility requirements, benefits, application processes, and expert tips to increase your chances of success.

Why Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships for Women Matter

Despite progress in gender equality, women in many parts of the world still face barriers to higher education, including financial limitations and limited access to opportunities. Fully funded scholarships help by:

• Reducing financial barriers

• Encouraging women into leadership and STEM fields

• Supporting women from developing countries

• Promoting global gender equality

These programs aim to equip women with advanced education and leadership skills to drive positive change in their communities.

What Does a Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship Cover?

Most fully funded scholarships include:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly living allowance

• Accommodation support

• Health insurance

• Travel costs (airfare)

• Study and research grants

Coverage varies by program, but recipients typically study with minimal financial burden.

Top Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships for Women 2026

Below are some of the most reputable and competitive scholarships available worldwide.

1. Chevening Scholarships (UK)

The Chevening Scholarship is a prestigious UK government-funded program supporting women from over 160 countries.

Key Benefits

• Full tuition coverage

• Monthly stipend

• Travel costs to and from the UK

• Networking and leadership development

Eligibility

• Bachelor’s degree

• Leadership potential

• Work experience

• Commitment to return home after studies

2. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)

The Fulbright Program enables women worldwide to pursue master’s degrees in the United States.

Key Benefits

• Full tuition

• Living stipend

• Health insurance

• Travel allowance

Who Can Apply

• Women with strong academic records

• Demonstrated leadership and community involvement

3. DAAD Scholarships for Women (Germany)

Germany offers fully funded scholarships through the DAAD for women pursuing master’s degrees.

Coverage

• Tuition-free education

• Monthly stipend

• Health insurance

• Travel allowance

Germany’s low-cost education system makes DAAD scholarships highly competitive.

4. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)

This program supports women from developing countries pursuing master’s studies in Sweden.

Benefits

• Full tuition

• Monthly living allowance

• Travel grant

• Insurance

The scholarship focuses on leadership, sustainability, and social impact.

5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships (Europe)

Erasmus Mundus offers fully funded joint master’s programs across multiple European countries.

Why It’s Popular

• Study in 2–3 European countries

• Full tuition and living costs

• Travel and installation grants

Women are strongly encouraged to apply.

6. Australia Awards Scholarships

Funded by the Australian government, this scholarship supports women from developing nations.

Benefits

• Full tuition

• Living allowance

• Travel costs

• Academic support

The program emphasizes leadership and development impact.

7. MEXT Scholarships for Women (Japan)

The MEXT Scholarship allows women to study master’s programs in Japan.

Coverage

• Tuition fees

• Monthly stipend

• Travel expenses

No application fee is required, making it accessible.

8. Gates Cambridge Scholarships (UK)

This prestigious scholarship supports outstanding women at the University of Cambridge.

Key Benefits

• Full tuition

• Living allowance

• Travel costs

• Academic development funding

9. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

Designed for women from developing countries, this program supports development-related master’s studies.

Coverage

• Tuition

• Monthly stipend

• Travel costs

• Health insurance

10. UN Women & NGO-Sponsored Scholarships

Several international organizations sponsor fully funded master’s scholarships for women in areas such as:

• Public policy

• Gender studies

• International development

• Human rights

These scholarships vary by region and institution.

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Eligibility Criteria for Women’s Master’s Scholarships

While requirements differ, most scholarships require:

• Bachelor’s degree

• Academic excellence

• Leadership or community involvement

• English language proficiency

• Strong motivation statement

Some programs prioritize women from developing or underrepresented regions.

How to Apply for Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships

Step 1: Research Early

Start at least 12 months before your intended study year.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

• Academic transcripts

• Statement of purpose

• Letters of recommendation

• CV or resume

Step 3: Meet Language Requirements

Prepare for IELTS, TOEFL, or other accepted tests if required.

Step 4: Apply Before Deadlines

Submit complete applications early to avoid disqualification.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning

• Highlight leadership and community impact

• Tailor each application

• Avoid generic personal statements

• Demonstrate long-term goals

• Apply to multiple scholarships

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing deadlines

• Submitting incomplete documents

• Weak motivation letters

• Ignoring eligibility criteria

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are these scholarships only for women?

Yes, most are specifically designed to support women.

Can I apply without work experience?

Some scholarships allow fresh graduates.

Are IELTS or TOEFL mandatory?

It depends on the program and institution.

Final Thoughts

The availability of fully funded master’s scholarships for women in 2026 presents a powerful opportunity to pursue higher education without financial burden. These programs not only support academic growth but also empower women to become leaders, innovators, and change-makers in their societies.

By preparing early, applying strategically, and showcasing leadership potential, women worldwide can successfully secure these prestigious scholarships and study abroad for free.