Studying in Europe offers Middle Eastern students an excellent opportunity to access world-class education, diverse cultures, and cutting-edge research. However, the cost of tuition and living can be a challenge for many aspiring scholars. To address this, several scholarship programs are available specifically for Middle Eastern students pursuing higher education in Europe. This article outlines some of the top scholarships designed to support academic dreams while fostering cross-cultural collaboration and knowledge exchange.
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD): A Prestigious EU Program
Eligibility: Students from all non-EU countries, including the Middle East
Coverage: Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel allowance, and insurance
Application Deadline: Typically in January-February
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) program offers fully funded scholarships for students pursuing master's degrees at multiple European universities. Middle Eastern students can apply for programs in various disciplines, from engineering to social sciences. The program fosters international collaboration, as students study in at least two European countries.
Key Features:
- Full coverage of tuition fees
- Monthly living stipend of €1,000+
- Travel allowance and health insurance included
How to Apply:
Applications are made directly through the respective EMJMD consortium websites. Strong academic performance, recommendation letters, and a personal statement are essential for a competitive application.
2. DAAD Scholarships: Study in Germany
Eligibility: Graduates from developing countries, including the Middle East
Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, and health insurance
Application Deadline: Varies by program (typically between September and December)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a wide range of scholarships for master's and doctoral programs in Germany. Middle Eastern students can benefit from programs like the DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS), which support candidatespursuing postgraduate studies in areas related to sustainable development, economics, and engineering. These scholarships are aimed at fostering leadership and professional expertise to benefit the student’s home country.
Key Features:
- Full tuition fee coverage for eligible programs
- Monthly stipend ranging from €850 to €1,200
- Travel costs and health insurance included
How to Apply:
Visit the official DAAD website to find eligible courses and their application deadlines. Applicants need to submit academic transcripts, proof of work experience (if required), and a motivation letter. Proficiency in English or German is also mandatory, depending on the program.
3. Chevening Scholarships: Study in the UK
Eligibility: Students from eligible Middle Eastern countries with leadership potential
Coverage: Full tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and allowances
Application Deadline: Typically in November
Funded by the UK government, Chevening Scholarships are designed for future leaders and decision-makers. These prestigious scholarships enable students to pursue a one-year master’s program at any UK university. Chevening scholars join a global network of professionals who share a commitment to creating positive change in their communities.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive funding, including tuition fees and living costs
- Opportunities for networking and professional development
- Access to exclusive events and activities
How to Apply:
Applications are submitted online via the Chevening website. Candidates must showcase academic excellence, leadership potential, and career aspirations that align with Chevening’s mission.
4. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Eligibility: Professionals and leaders from eligible Middle Eastern countries
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel grants, and insurance
Application Deadline: Typically in February
The SISGP program offers scholarships to talented professionals from developing regions, including the Middle East. This program focuses on fostering leadership and sustainable development. It covers various fields, such as innovation, public health, and technology.
Key Features:
- Tuition fee waiver for master’s programs in Swedish universities
- Monthly living allowance of SEK 10,000
- Travel grants and health insurance
How to Apply:
Applicants must first apply for a master’s program at a Swedish university and then submit a scholarship application through the Swedish Institute portal. Highlighting leadership achievements and a commitment to sustainable development strengthens the application.
5. Turkish Scholarships for Middle Eastern Students
Eligibility: Students from Middle Eastern countries pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees
Coverage: Full tuition fees, accommodation, monthly stipend, and travel expenses
Application Deadline: Typically in February
Funded by the Turkish government, Türkiye Scholarships offer comprehensive funding for students pursuing degrees in Turkey’s prestigious universities. The program also includes free Turkish language courses to help students adapt to life in Turkey.
Key Features:
- Full tuition fee coverage and free accommodation
- Monthly stipend ranging from 1,000 to 1,800 Turkish Lira
- Travel and health insurance provided
How to Apply:
Applications are made online through the Türkiye Scholarships website. Prepare academic transcripts, a letter of intent, and letters of recommendation.
6. France’s Eiffel Excellence Scholarships
Eligibility: Students from developing countries, including the Middle East
Coverage: Monthly allowance, travel costs, and social security coverage (partial tuition waiver)
Application Deadline: Typically in January
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is offered by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to attract top international students for master’s and doctoral programs. The scholarship emphasizes fields such as engineering, law, economics, and political science.
Key Features:
- Monthly stipend of €1,181 for master’s and €1,400 for doctoral students
- Travel reimbursement and health insurance included
- Opportunity to study at leading French institutions
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted through the French institutions offering eligible programs. Ensure you meet the academic and language requirements before applying.
7. Netherlands’ Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)
Eligibility: Professionals from select countries in the Middle East
Coverage: Full or partial tuition fees, travel expenses, and living allowance
Application Deadline: Varies by institution
The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) is funded by the Dutch government to support mid-career professionals from developing countries. The scholarship focuses on fields such as agriculture, engineering, and public health.
Key Features:
- Full or partial funding for eligible master’s programs and short courses
- Monthly living allowance and travel expenses
- Professional networking opportunities
How to Apply:
Apply directly through Dutch institutions offering OKP-eligible courses. Applications typically require a strong professional background and clear career goals.
8. European University-Specific Scholarships
In addition to government scholarships, many European universities offer their own scholarships for international students, including those from the Middle East. Here are a few notable examples:
- University of Oxford – Clarendon Fund: Fully funded scholarships for master’s and PhD programs.
- Sciences Po Paris – Emile Boutmy Scholarship: Merit-based scholarships for Middle Eastern students pursuing political science and international relations.
- ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship: Supports outstanding students in science and engineering disciplines.
For Middle Eastern students seeking to study in Europe, a wealth of scholarships is available to support your academic ambitions. These programs not only alleviate financial burdens but also foster global connections and professional growth. Whether you aim to study in Germany, the UK, Sweden, or elsewhere, start by exploring scholarship options that align with your goals and prepare early for the application process.
With careful planning and dedication, your dream of pursuing higher education in Europe can become a reality in 2025.