Your Ultimate Guide to Studying Health Without the Financial Burden.
Healthcare is one of the noblest and most impactful career paths. Whether you’re training to become a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, public health expert, or health tech innovator, your role contributes to building healthier communities.
But here’s the hard truth: health education is expensive. Tuition, lab fees, accommodation, textbooks, and exams — they add up quickly. Fortunately, many institutions, governments, and global organizations offer fully funded scholarships that cover most (if not all) of your educational costs.
Below is a detailed guide to the most trusted fully funded scholarships for healthcare students in 2025 and 2026 — including eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and English language requirements.
Contents
What Does “Fully Funded Scholarships” Mean?
A fully funded scholarship typically covers:
- Tuition and fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel costs (e.g., airfare)
- Health insurance
- Study materials or research funds (in some cases)
Unlike partial awards, these scholarships allow you to focus entirely on your studies — without the financial stress.
🎓Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships for Healthcare Students
1. Chevening Fully Funded Scholarships (UK)
For: Future health leaders from over 160 eligible countries.
- Level: Master’s
- Fields: Public Health, Medicine, Nursing, Global Health Policy, etc.
- Deadline: November 5, 2025 (usually opens in August)
- Covers: Full tuition, monthly stipend, visa costs, airfare, arrival allowance, thesis/research grant
- English proficiency test required (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) — waivers not accepted.
- Host Country: United Kingdom (all UK universities)
📌 Why it stands out: Offers a leadership-focused, world-class health education and access to one of the strongest alumni networks worldwide.
2. DAAD EPOS Fully Funded Scholarships – Public Health Track (Germany)
For: Professionals from developing countries.
- Level: Master’s
- Fields: Public Health, Health Management, and related areas
- Deadline: September–October 2025 (varies by program)
- Covers: Tuition, €934 monthly stipend, travel allowance, insurance
- Language Requirement: IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge certificate (waiver possible if prior degree was in English)
- Host Country: Germany
📌 Why it stands out: Combines academic excellence with hands-on public health training, all within Germany’s tuition-free education system.
3. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
For: International graduate students in health-related fields.
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Fields: Public Health, Nursing, Biomedical Sciences, and more
- Deadline: March–August 2025 (varies by country)
- Covers: Tuition, stipend, airfare, health insurance
- Language Requirement: TOEFL iBT or IELTS (waiver may be granted for English-taught degrees)
- Host Country: United States
📌 Why it stands out: A globally respected program offering full financial support and academic freedom at U.S. institutions.
4. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program (Multiple Countries)
For: Talented African students with leadership potential
- Level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
- Fields: Medicine, Public Health, Health Economics, Nursing, etc.
- Deadline: December–March (varies by university)
- Covers: Tuition, accommodation, meals, books, travel, career support
- Language Requirement: Varies; IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo usually accepted. Waivers are common.
- Host Countries: USA, Canada, UK, and Africa (e.g., University of Edinburgh, McGill, Ashesi University)
📌 Why it stands out: Prioritizes access and leadership for underrepresented students across Africa.
5. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
For: Postgraduate international health researchers.
- Level: PhD and Postdoctoral
- Fields: Biomedical Sciences, Health Technology, Public Health
- Deadline: September 2025
- Covers: Tuition, CHF 1,920/month, health insurance, airfare, housing allowance
- Language Requirement: IELTS or TOEFL, based on university policy (waivers may apply)
- Host Country: Switzerland
📌 Why it stands out: A research-focused program ideal for highly academic, innovation-driven healthcare candidates.
6. Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) – Netherlands
For: Mid-career professionals from developing countries.
- Level: Short courses & master’s degrees
- Eligible Regions: Africa, Asia, Latin America, Middle East
- Fields: Public Health, Sexual & Reproductive Health, Water & Sanitation, and more
- Next Deadline: October 2025 (tentative, based on previous cycles)
- Covers: Full tuition, visa, travel, insurance, and monthly living expenses
- Language Requirement: IELTS, TOEFL, or proof of English proficiency (varies by institution)
- Host Country: Netherlands
📌 Why it stands out: Ideal for working healthcare professionals seeking short-term training or master’s degrees focused on practical development impact.
7. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Canada)
For: High-achieving doctoral students (PhD).
- Level: PhD
- Eligible Countries: All countries
- Fields: Health Research, Public Health, Biomedical Science
- Deadline: November 2025
- Covers: $50,000/year for 3 years
- Language Requirement: Most applicants must submit scores from IELTS, TOEFL iBT, or PTE — this is typically a required component.
- Host Country: Canada
📌 Why it stands out: One of the most prestigious research scholarships in North America, emphasizing innovation and leadership.
8. Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Programme)
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
- Eligible Countries: IsDB Member Countries and Muslim communities in non-member
- Fields: Medicine, Public Health, Health Policy, Environmental Health, etc.
- Deadline: March–April (varies by country)
- Covers: Tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance, travel, thesis support
- Language Requirement: English language test scores (IELTS or TOEFL) are usually required, though some universities may offer waivers based on prior education.
📌 Why it stands out: Supports students from developing countries committed to giving back to their communities.
9. Türkiye Scholarships (Turkiye Burslari)
- For: International students aiming to study in Turkey.
- Level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
- Fields: Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Biomedical Sciences
- Deadline: Typically January–February 2026 (check official portal)
- Covers: Full tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance, accommodation, travel costs, and Turkish language courses (if needed)
- Language Requirement: IELTS, TOEFL, or proof of English proficiency; Turkish language courses are provided if studying in Turkish
- Host Country: Turkey
📌 Why it stands out: Türkiye Scholarships provide full financial support to international students and prioritize leadership, cultural exchange, and academic excellence. The program also offers opportunities to engage in research, internships, and community projects.
10. Erasmus+ Health Mobility Grants (Europe)
- For: Students, recent graduates, or healthcare professionals seeking short-term international exchange in Europe
- Level: Short-term / Exchange Programs
- Fields: Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Health Technology
- Deadline: Varies by host institution (typically 6–12 months before program start)
- Covers: Tuition support, living allowance, travel costs; some programs offer full scholarships covering accommodation and insurance
- Language Requirement: Usually English; specific programs may require local language proficiency depending on the host country
- Host Countries: Multiple European countries (e.g., Germany, Netherlands, Spain, France)
📌 Why it stands out: Erasmus+ promotes cross-border healthcare education, hands-on experience in clinical settings, and networking with global peers. It’s ideal for gaining exposure to international healthcare systems and best practices.
Quick Summary Table for the Top Scholarships
| Scholarship | Country | Level | Fields | Deadline 2025/26 | Coverage | Language Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening | UK | Master’s | Public Health, Medicine, Nursing, Global Health Policy | Nov 5, 2025 | Full tuition, stipend, visa, airfare, thesis/research grant | IELTS/TOEFL |
| DAAD EPOS | Germany | Master’s | Public Health, Health Management | Sept–Oct 2025 | Tuition, monthly stipend (€934), travel, insurance | IELTS/TOEFL/Cambridge |
| Fulbright Foreign Student | USA | Master’s & PhD | Public Health, Nursing, Biomedical Sciences | Mar–Aug 2025 | Tuition, stipend, airfare, health insurance | TOEFL iBT / IELTS |
| MasterCard Foundation Scholars | USA, Canada, UK, Africa | UG & PG | Medicine, Public Health, Health Economics, Nursing | Dec–Mar | Tuition, accommodation, meals, books, travel, career support | IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo |
| Swiss Government Excellence | Switzerland | PhD & Postdoc | Biomedical Sciences, Health Technology, Public Health | Sept 2025 | Tuition, CHF 1,920/mo, insurance, airfare, housing | IELTS/TOEFL |
| Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) | Netherlands | Short courses & Master’s | Public Health, Sexual & Reproductive Health, Water & Sanitation | Oct 2025 | Full tuition, visa, travel, insurance, living expenses | IELTS/TOEFL/English proficiency |
| Vanier Canada Graduate | Canada | PhD | Health Research, Public Health, Biomedical Science | Nov 2025 | $50,000/year for 3 years | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE |
| Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) | Member & Muslim communities | UG, Master’s, PhD | Medicine, Public Health, Health Policy, Environmental Health | Mar–Apr 2025 (varies by country) | Tuition, stipend, health insurance, travel, thesis support | IELTS/TOEFL |
| Türkiye Scholarships | Turkey | UG & PG | Medicine, Nursing, Public Health | Varies | Tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance, travel | IELTS/TOEFL (waivers may apply) |
| Erasmus+ Health Mobility Grants | Europe | Short-term / Exchange | Health, Medicine, Public Health | Varies | Tuition & living support (partial/full) | Varies by program |
Bonus: Scholarships for Medical Travel and Exchange Programs
While these aren’t always fully funded, many short-term international health exchange programs cover nearly all costs:
- Global Health Corps Fellowships (Africa, U.S.)
- WHO Internship Programme
- United Nations University Health Fellowships
- ERASMUS+ Health Mobility Grants (Europe)
📌 These are great for current students or recent graduates seeking global health experience.
How to Stand Out in Fully Funded Applications
Here are a few tested tips to increase your success rate:
- Start early – Most top scholarships close 6–12 months before classes begin.
- Highlight impact – Emphasize how your goals will benefit your community.
- Strong references – Ask mentors who can vouch for your dedication.
- Tell your story – Your healthcare journey often matters more than a perfect GPA.
- Meet technical requirements – Language tests, transcripts, and health certificates matter.
FAQs
1. What are fully funded scholarships for healthcare students?
Fully funded scholarships for healthcare cover all major expenses such as tuition, accommodation, living costs, travel, and sometimes even insurance. They are often offered by governments, universities, or international organizations to support talented students pursuing careers in medicine, nursing, public health, or related fields.
2. Who is eligible for fully funded scholarships for healthcare students?
Eligibility criteria vary by program, but most require academic excellence, a strong motivation to work in healthcare, and sometimes proof of financial need. Many scholarships also target students from developing countries, including Ethiopia and other African nations.
3. Will I need IELTS or TOEFL for the application of the above scholarships?
Most international scholarships require proof of English proficiency, commonly through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. However, some programs accept alternatives such as a letter from your university confirming English was the medium of instruction.
If you’re applying for UK programs, here’s a step-by-step Chevening Scholarship 2026 Guide to help you prepare.
4. Are undergraduate students eligible for completely funded scholarships?
Yes, several programs like Türkiye Fully Funded Scholarships and specific university scholarships offer full funding for undergraduate studies in health-related fields. Always check the specific requirements of each scholarship.
5.What documents are usually required for application?
These usually include academic transcripts, a personal statement or essay, letters of recommendation, proof of English proficiency, a copy of the passport, and sometimes a resume or CV.
6. When should I start applying for scholarships?
Most major scholarship programs open between August and January for the next academic year, so it’s best to begin preparing your application materials several months in advance. If you’re applying for UK programs, here’s a step-by-step Chevening Scholarship 2026 Guide to help you prepare.
7.Can I work while studying under a scholarship?
Some of the scholarships allow for part-time employment during study time, while others do not. Read the terms and conditions of the scholarship before accepting.
8.What are my chances of getting a fully funded scholarship?
Fully funded scholarships are competitive, but strong academic records, leadership potential, community service, and a compelling personal statement can significantly increase your chances.
Related:
👉 How to Write a Winning Scholarship Application – Step-by-step tips to help you craft compelling essays, gather strong references, and avoid common mistakes when applying for these fully funded scholarships.
💬 Healthcare is more than a career — it’s a calling. And your calling should never be blocked by financial barriers. Thanks to these fully funded scholarships, you can access world-class education, connect with global leaders, and transform your community — without drowning in student debt. Take the next step today: Choose one or two scholarships from this list, mark your deadlines, and begin your application now.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Scholarship details (deadlines, coverage, and eligibility) may change without notice. Always check the official scholarship website before applying.
Founder of My Health Tech Talk. He is a health informatics professional, researcher, and graduate assistant with a passion for digital health and innovation, medical tourism and health tips. Learn more about author and his mission on the About Us page
