Your Guide to International Relations Scholarships in Europe

Pursuing a degree in International Relations in Europe can be a life-changing experience, but funding this dream can feel like a major challenge. You’ve come to the right place. This guide is designed to help you explore the top scholarships available for students aiming to study diplomacy, global policy, and international affairs across the continent.

Understanding the European Scholarship Landscape

Europe offers a vast and diverse range of funding opportunities for international students. These scholarships are generally offered by three main sources: governmental bodies (like national governments or the European Union), individual universities, and independent foundations. The key to success is knowing where to look and understanding what each program seeks in a candidate.

Most scholarships in this field are highly competitive and look for applicants with a strong academic record, a clear passion for international affairs, and often some relevant work or volunteer experience. Starting your research and application process early is crucial.

Major Pan-European and EU-Funded Scholarships

These scholarships are often the most prestigious and cover study in multiple European countries. They are an excellent starting point for any aspiring International Relations student.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships

The Erasmus Mundus program is one of the most well-known initiatives funded by the European Union. It supports Joint Master’s Degrees that are designed and delivered by a consortium of international universities.

• What it Covers: These scholarships are extremely generous. They typically cover tuition fees, travel costs, a living allowance, and insurance. The total value can be up to €25,000 per year.
• Who is Eligible: Students from all over the world can apply. You must have a bachelor’s degree (or be in your final year) to be eligible for a master’s level program.
• How to Apply: You apply directly to the specific Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree program you are interested in. There are several programs highly relevant to IR, such as “International Security, Intelligence and Strategic Studies” or “European Politics and Society.” Each program has its own website and application portal.

College of Europe Scholarships

The College of Europe, with campuses in Bruges, Belgium, and Natolin, Poland, is a premier institution for postgraduate European studies. While not an EU institution itself, it is highly respected within EU circles.

• What it Covers: Numerous scholarships are available that can cover a significant portion or all of the tuition and living expenses. These are often funded by national governments and foundations.
• Who is Eligible: Eligibility varies by the specific scholarship, but they are generally for postgraduate students from specific countries or regions. A strong academic background in fields like law, economics, political science, or international relations is required.
• How to Apply: You apply to the College of Europe, and during the application process, you can apply for the scholarships for which you are eligible.

Prominent Country-Specific Government Scholarships

Many European nations offer their own government-funded scholarships to attract talented international students. These are fantastic opportunities to immerse yourself in a single country’s culture and academic environment.

DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a wide array of scholarships for international students. Germany is known for its high-quality, low-cost education and its strong programs in political science and international relations.

• What it Covers: DAAD scholarships are comprehensive. For master’s students, they typically provide a monthly stipend of around €861, travel allowance, and health insurance. Tuition is often free at German public universities.
• Who is Eligible: Open to students from most countries who have a bachelor’s degree and typically at least two years of professional experience for development-related postgraduate courses.
• How to Apply: Applications are made through the DAAD portal. You will need to find a suitable master’s program at a German university before or during your scholarship application.

Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)

While the UK is no longer part of the EU, it remains a top European destination for IR studies. The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s global scholarship program, aimed at developing future leaders.

• What it Covers: This is a fully-funded scholarship that covers university tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, travel costs to and from the UK, and various other grants and allowances.
• Who is Eligible: Applicants must be from a Chevening-eligible country, have at least two years of work experience, and demonstrate strong leadership potential.
• How to Apply: You apply for a one-year master’s degree at any UK university. The application is submitted through the official Chevening website, usually opening in August each year.

Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme (France)

Run by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the Eiffel Scholarship aims to attract top international students to French institutions for master’s and PhD programs.

• What it Covers: The scholarship does not cover tuition fees but provides a generous monthly allowance (€1,181 for master’s students), round-trip international travel, health insurance, and cultural activities. Many public French universities have very low tuition fees.
• Who is Eligible: This program is for non-French nationals up to 25 years old for master’s level and up to 30 years old for PhD level. You must be applying to a program in a relevant field, such as political science.
• How to Apply: You cannot apply directly. Your chosen French university must nominate you for the Eiffel Scholarship after you have been admitted to one of their programs.

Finding University-Specific Scholarships

Beyond the large national programs, do not overlook the scholarships offered directly by universities. Many of Europe’s top universities for International Relations provide their own funding to attract the best students.

• Sciences Po (Paris, France): Sciences Po offers a range of scholarships for international students, with the most notable being the Emile Boutmy Scholarship, which is awarded to top students based on merit and financial need.
• London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) (London, UK): LSE provides numerous scholarships for master’s students, including the LSE Graduate Support Scheme, which is a needs-based award for all nationalities.
• Leiden University (Leiden, Netherlands): This university is renowned for its programs in international studies and security. It offers the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS), a merit-based award for outstanding non-EU/EEA students.
• University of Bologna (Bologna, Italy): As one of the oldest universities in the world, it offers the Unibo Action 1 & 2 study grants, which provide tuition fee waivers and a yearly allowance based on SAT/GRE scores and financial need.

How to Find These Opportunities

1. Identify Your Target Universities: Research the top universities in Europe for International Relations.
2. Visit the “Admissions” or “Financial Aid” Section: Every university website has a dedicated section for scholarships and funding.
3. Check Program-Specific Pages: Sometimes, a specific department or master’s program will have its own dedicated funding.
4. Contact the Admissions Office: If you cannot find the information, do not hesitate to email the university’s international admissions office.

Studying International Relations in Europe is an achievable goal. With careful research, preparation, and timely applications, you can find a scholarship that opens the door to your future.