Home / Studies / Study in Europe: A Comprehensive Scholarship Guide for Pakistani Students

Study in Europe: A Comprehensive Scholarship Guide for Pakistani Students

July 14, 2025

Europe stands as a beacon for Pakistani students seeking world-class higher education, rich cultural experiences, and promising career opportunities. While the quality of education is high, the cost of living can be a significant hurdle. Fortunately, a wide array of prestigious scholarships are available, offering a fully-funded gateway to academic excellence.

This guide provides a detailed overview of the best and most significant scholarship opportunities in Europe for students from Pakistan.

1. The Pan-European Gem: Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM)

The Erasmus Mundus scholarship is arguably the most prestigious and coveted scholarship for Master’s level studies in Europe. It is a fully funded program that allows you to study at multiple universities in different European countries.

What it Covers: The scholarship is extremely generous, covering full tuition fees, travel costs, visa expenses, and providing a monthly stipend of approximately €1,400 to cover living expenses.
Key Features: Students enroll in a joint Master’s program and study at a minimum of two different European universities, receiving a joint or multiple degree upon completion.
How to Apply: Applications are made directly to the consortium of the specific Master’s program you are interested in. You can find a list of available programs on the official Erasmus Mundus Catalogue website.
Typical Application Window: October to January for programs starting the following autumn.

2. Top Country-Specific Scholarships

Many European countries offer their own flagship scholarships to attract top international talent. Here are some of the best for Pakistani students:

Germany: DAAD Scholarships

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the primary gateway for funded studies in Germany’s tuition-free public universities.

Key Program: The DAAD Scholarship for Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) is highly relevant for Pakistanis.
What it Covers: A monthly stipend (€934 for Master’s), health insurance, travel allowance, and study allowance.
Eligibility: Requires a four-year Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of two years of relevant professional work experience.
Typical Application Window: August to October for the following year’s intake.

United Kingdom: Chevening Scholarship

The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s global scholarship program, aimed at developing future leaders.

What it Covers: Fully funds a one-year Master’s degree at any UK university, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and flights.
Eligibility: Requires a Bachelor’s degree, a minimum of two years of work experience, and a clear leadership vision.
How to Apply: Applications are made through the central Chevening website. You must apply separately to your chosen UK universities for admission.
Typical Application Window: August to early November.

Hungary: Stipendium Hungaricum

This has become one of the most popular and accessible scholarship programs for Pakistani students, offering opportunities from Bachelor’s to PhD levels.

What it Covers: Full tuition fees, a monthly stipend, free accommodation or a contribution towards rent, and medical insurance.
How to Apply: Applications from Pakistan are managed through the Higher Education Commission (HEC). Students first apply via the HEC portal.
Typical Application Window: November to mid-January.

France: Eiffel Excellence Scholarship

The Eiffel Scholarship is a prestigious award from the French government for Master’s and PhD students.

What it Covers: It does not cover tuition fees (which are often very low or nil in French public universities). It provides a generous monthly allowance (€1,181 for Master’s, €1,700 for PhD) and covers health insurance, travel, and cultural activities.
How to Apply: You cannot apply directly. French higher education institutions select and nominate candidates. You must first secure admission to a university, which will then decide whether to put you forward for the scholarship.
Typical Application Window: October to January.

Sweden: Swedish Institute (SI) Scholarship

For those aspiring to study in Sweden, the SI Scholarship for Global Professionals is the premier choice for Master’s level studies.

What it Covers: Full tuition fees, a monthly stipend of SEK 12,000, travel grant, and insurance.
Eligibility: Requires a significant amount of work experience (minimum 3,000 hours) and demonstrated leadership skills.
How to Apply: You must first apply for admission to a Swedish university through the central application portal and then apply separately for the SI scholarship.
Typical Application Window: University admissions are in October-January, while the scholarship application window is typically in February.

How to Apply: A General Strategy for Pakistani Students

Start Early (12-18 Months Before): Begin your research more than a year in advance. Shortlist countries and programs that align with your academic and career goals.
Prepare Your Documents: This is the most crucial step. Have the following documents ready:
- Academic Transcripts & Degrees: Attested by the HEC.
- Updated CV: Preferably in the Europass format.
- Statement of Purpose / Letter of Motivation: A well-written, tailored essay explaining your reasons for choosing the course and your future plans.
- Letters of Recommendation: At least two letters, one academic and one professional (if required), on official letterhead.
- Language Proficiency Certificate: A recent IELTS or TOEFL score.
- Passport: Ensure it is valid.
Check Specific Requirements: Carefully read the eligibility criteria and application procedure for each scholarship and university.
Submit Applications: Apply well before the deadlines. Remember that for many scholarships (Chevening, SI), you must apply for university admission separately.
Prepare for Visa: Once you receive an admission and scholarship award letter, immediately book an appointment with the respective embassy in Pakistan to apply for your student visa.