Europe is one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking quality education and international career opportunities. Many European universities offer excellent academic programmes, modern research facilities and scholarships that help students study without carrying the full financial burden.
One major advantage of some European scholarships is the monthly stipend. Instead of covering tuition fees alone, these programmes provide regular financial support to help students pay for accommodation, feeding, transportation and other living expenses.
For students from Nigeria, Africa and other parts of the world, these opportunities can make studying in Europe more affordable.
This guide highlights some of the best scholarships in Europe that offer monthly financial support and explains how to apply.
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarship
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s scholarship is among the most attractive funding opportunities available to international students.
It allows successful applicants to study at two or more participating European universities as part of a joint master’s programme.
Depending on the programme and scholarship conditions, benefits can include:
- Full tuition and participation costs.
- A monthly allowance.
- Travel expenses.
- Installation support.
- Insurance coverage.
Students can choose from different academic fields, including engineering, business, environmental science, technology and social sciences.
Applicants from Nigeria and other non-European countries can apply for eligible programmes.
Official website: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/
2. DAAD Scholarships in Germany
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides scholarships to international students pursuing postgraduate education and research in Germany.
Several DAAD programmes provide monthly stipends to help students manage their living expenses.
Depending on the specific scholarship, benefits may include:
- Monthly financial allowance.
- Travel allowance.
- Health insurance.
- Accident and personal liability insurance.
- Study and research support.
DAAD scholarships are available in various academic areas, including development studies, engineering, agriculture, public health and other disciplines.
Applicants should check the individual programme requirements because funding amounts and eligibility conditions differ.
Official website: https://www.daad.de/en/
3. Swedish Institute Scholarships
The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals supports eligible international students pursuing master’s degrees in Sweden.
It is designed for individuals with leadership experience and the potential to contribute to sustainable development.
Depending on the current scholarship conditions, benefits include:
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Travel grant.
- Opportunities for professional networking.
Applicants must meet the nationality, work experience and leadership requirements specified for their application year.
Official website: https://si.se/en/
4. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships support international researchers and postgraduate students seeking research opportunities in Switzerland.
The available categories include research scholarships and certain arts scholarships.
Benefits depend on the scholarship category but may include:
- Monthly financial support.
- Health insurance contributions.
- Housing allowance in some cases.
- Other approved research-related support.
These scholarships are particularly relevant to students interested in research, doctoral studies and academic development.
Applicants should consult the official Swiss government information for their country because available categories and conditions vary.
Official website: https://www.sbfi.admin.ch/
5. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides comprehensive funding for outstanding international students pursuing eligible postgraduate programmes at the University of Cambridge.
The scholarship generally covers:
- University composition fees.
- A maintenance allowance.
- One economy return airfare.
- Certain additional funding for eligible academic activities.
The maintenance allowance is paid to support living expenses during the programme.
Applicants are assessed based on academic excellence, leadership potential, commitment to improving the lives of others and suitability for their chosen course.
Official website: https://www.gatescambridge.org/
6. Clarendon Scholarships at the University of Oxford
The Clarendon Fund provides scholarships to outstanding graduate students at the University of Oxford.
It offers full tuition and college fees, together with a grant towards living expenses.
Eligible applicants are generally considered automatically when they apply for an eligible graduate course by the relevant funding deadline.
The scholarship is highly competitive and attracts applicants from different countries and academic backgrounds.
Official website: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/fees-and-funding
7. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme in France
The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme is funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
It supports talented international students applying for eligible master’s and doctoral-level programmes at French higher education institutions.
Scholarship benefits may include a monthly allowance, international transport support, insurance and other approved services.
For master’s applicants, the scholarship generally does not cover tuition fees, so students should confirm what additional costs their host institution may charge.
Applicants cannot normally submit the application independently; participating French institutions nominate candidates.
Official website: https://www.campusfrance.org/en/eiffel-scholarship-program-of-excellence
How Much Is a Monthly Scholarship Stipend?
Monthly allowances vary considerably depending on the country, scholarship programme and degree level.
Some scholarships provide enough support for basic living expenses, while others require students to contribute additional personal funds.
Before accepting an award, calculate your expected costs for:
- Accommodation.
- Food and groceries.
- Transportation.
- Mobile phone and internet.
- Study materials.
- Personal expenses.
- Health insurance, if not included.
Remember that a monthly stipend does not automatically mean every expense is covered.
Eligibility Requirements
Although requirements differ, applicants commonly need:
- Academic certificates and transcripts.
- A valid international passport.
- A bachelor’s degree for most master’s scholarships.
- A strong academic record.
- Recommendation letters.
- A CV or résumé.
- A motivation letter or personal statement.
- English-language proficiency evidence, where required.
- Work or leadership experience for selected programmes.
Research scholarships may also require a research proposal and an academic supervisor.
How to Apply for European Scholarships With Monthly Stipends
1. Select your preferred country and course.
Choose a programme that matches your academic background and career objectives.
2. Research scholarship opportunities.
Visit official scholarship websites and check whether the programme provides monthly financial support.
3. Confirm eligibility.
Review nationality restrictions, academic requirements, age limits and work experience conditions.
4. Prepare your documents.
Arrange your transcripts, passport, recommendation letters, CV and personal statement.
5. Apply before the deadline.
Some scholarships have separate admission and scholarship deadlines. Make sure you meet both.
6. Prepare for interviews.
Be ready to explain your academic goals, leadership experience and plans after completing your studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Nigerian students apply for European scholarships with monthly stipends?
Yes. Many European scholarship programmes accept Nigerian applicants, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Do monthly stipends cover accommodation and feeding?
They are intended to help students manage living expenses, including accommodation and food. However, the amount may not cover every expense in every European city.
Are these scholarships fully funded?
Some provide comprehensive funding, including tuition and living allowances. Others cover only selected costs, so applicants must check the exact benefits.
Can undergraduate students receive monthly stipends in Europe?
Yes, some undergraduate funding opportunities exist, but many of the major international scholarship programmes listed above focus on master’s, doctoral or research-level studies.
Conclusion
Fully funded scholarships with monthly stipends provide international students with an excellent opportunity to pursue higher education in Europe while receiving financial support.
Programmes such as Erasmus Mundus, DAAD, Swedish Institute, Gates Cambridge, Clarendon and the Eiffel Scholarship are worth exploring.
The best way to improve your chances is to research carefully, prepare strong application documents and apply early. Always confirm the current stipend amount, eligible countries and funding conditions through the official scholarship website.