Studying or gaining international experience is a dream for many students. However, high tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses often make it difficult. Fully funded programs solve this problem by covering most or all major expenses. These opportunities allow students to focus on learning, research, and personal growth without financial stress.
In 2026, many well known universities and organizations are offering fully funded internships, scholarships, fellowships, and summer programs for international students. Some programs are short term and last a few weeks, while others support full degree studies such as Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs.
Most of these opportunities cover:
• Full tuition fees
• Round trip airfare
• Accommodation
• Monthly living allowance
• Health insurance
• Research or internship support
Below is a carefully selected list of some of the best fully funded opportunities for international students in 2026.
1. KAIST Summer Research Internship 2026
Host Country: South Korea
Program Level: Undergraduate and Master’s Students
Duration: Summer Research Program
The KAIST Summer Research Internship offers students the chance to work in advanced laboratories and gain practical research experience. Participants work closely with professors and researchers.
Benefits include:
• Airfare support up to 1,000,000 KRW
• Dormitory support up to 500,000 KRW
• Living stipend of 600,000 KRW
• Hands on research experience
Expected deadline is mid February 2026.
2. Nanyang Technological University Global Connect Fellowship 2026
Host Country: Singapore
Program Level: Undergraduate and Master’s Students
Type: Short Term Research
This fellowship allows students to conduct research at one of Asia’s top universities. It also provides networking opportunities and academic mentorship.
Benefits include:
• Full tuition fee waiver
• Free on campus accommodation
• Settling allowance of SGD 2,000
• Monthly stipend of SGD 1,500
• Participation in workshops and seminars
Deadline is usually around mid February 2026.
3. Australia Awards Scholarships 2027 Intake
Host Country: Australia
Study Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Funded by the Australian Government, this scholarship supports students from eligible countries to study full degree programs in Australia.
Benefits include:
• Full tuition fees
• Return airfare
• Living allowance
• Health insurance
• Academic support
Applications generally close in April 2026.
4. GRIPS Summer Research Internship 2026
Host Country: Japan
Program Level: Undergraduate and Graduate Students
This summer program offers students research training and academic exposure in Japan. Selected applicants may receive funding support for travel and accommodation.
Benefits include:
• Tuition fee waiver
• No registration fee
• Scholarship support for selected candidates
• Certificate of participation
5. Niskanen Center Summer Institute 2026
Host Country: United States
Program Level: Students and Young Professionals
This program is held in Washington DC and focuses on policy discussions and professional development.
Benefits include:
• Round trip airfare
• Hotel accommodation
• Daily meals
• Local transport
• Cash stipend of 250 USD
Deadline is expected in late February 2026.
6. Global Korea Scholarship 2026
Host Country: South Korea
Study Level: Master’s, PhD, Research
This is one of the most popular scholarships funded by the Korean Government. It supports international students for full graduate degrees.
Benefits include:
• Round trip airfare
• Settlement allowance
• Monthly living stipend
• Korean language training
• Full tuition coverage
• Medical insurance
Deadlines vary between February and March depending on application track.
7. Rotary Foundation Peace Fellowships 2026
Host Countries: Multiple Countries
Study Level: Master’s and Professional Certificate
The Rotary Peace Fellowship prepares leaders in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
Benefits include:
• Full tuition
• Accommodation and meals
• Travel expenses
• Internship and field study support
• Health insurance
Deadline is usually in May 2026.
8. KAUST Photonics Summer Camp 2026
Host Country: Saudi Arabia
Program Level: Undergraduate and Master’s Students
This summer camp focuses on photonics and advanced technology research. It gives students access to modern laboratories and research facilities.
Benefits include:
• No program fees
• Living stipend
• Free accommodation
• Visa and logistics support
• Certificate upon completion
Deadline is expected at the end of March 2026.
9. ETH Zurich Robotics Student Fellowship 2026
Host Country: Switzerland
Program Level: Master’s and Final Year Undergraduate Students
Duration: 8 Weeks
This fellowship offers students the chance to conduct robotics research in one of Europe’s leading institutions.
Benefits include:
• Stipend of CHF 4,000
• Travel and visa reimbursement
• Research supervision
• Access to advanced laboratories
Deadline is expected in late February 2026.
Final Thoughts
Fully funded programs open doors for students who want international exposure but cannot afford high expenses. These opportunities help students gain global experience, improve academic knowledge, and build strong professional networks.
Before applying, always visit the official website of each program to confirm eligibility criteria, deadlines, and updated funding details. Preparing early increases your chances of selection.
If you are planning to study or gain research experience abroad in 2026, now is the right time to start preparing your documents and applications.