Scholarships for International Students

Sri Lankan students aspiring to study abroad can access scholarships to cover their study and living expenses. These programs are available for UG, PG, and PhD courses and offered by various governments, private organisations, and universities abroad. One of the key reasons they are essential for international students is their potential to reduce study costs significantly, and living costs overseas. There are various types of scholarships available for students, including merit-based, need-based, country-specific, government-funded, university-specific, and more. Different countries offer different scholarship options; examples include the Fulbright Scholarship (USA), GREAT Scholarships (UK), Australia Awards, and the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA). When applying for international scholarships, Sri Lankan students must apply early and ensure they do not miss the deadline, especially for highly competitive programs such as fully funded scholarships. It provides 100% coverage of all tuition and living costs abroad, compared with a partial scholarship that covers only a portion of the overall cost. To improve your chances of acceptance, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements of the scholarship program you wish to apply to. Different programs have different admission requirements, so always check with the provider before applying.    

Why Scholarships are Important for International Students

The significance of scholarships is evident: they significantly reduce study abroad costs for international students from Sri Lanka, enabling them to pursue higher education at top-ranked Sri Lankan universities by applying for various scholarships. 

Other reasons that underscore the importance of scholarships in Sri Lanka include reducing the student debt burden and enabling students to pursue higher education abroad. This reduces students' debt burden.

• Improves focus on studies: With scholarships, students can concentrate on their studies rather than take on part-time jobs to finance their programs.

• Encourages equality: Scholarship programs help bridge economic gaps, reducing disparity between students from different economic backgrounds and offering equal opportunities for higher education abroad. 

Types of Scholarships for International Students

The types of scholarships offered to International students vary by awarding body (Government, private organisations, universities), eligibility criteria (merit-based or need-based), and scope (country-specific, fully funded/partial). All of these various types of scholarships are detailed below for better understanding:

• Government-funded scholarships: These are funded by the host country or its government. Examples include Chevening Scholarships, UK, Fulbright Scholarships, USA, etc.

• Private scholarships: These are available from private companies or foundations (e.g., MPOWER or the Aga Khan Foundation) and individual donors. 

• University scholarships: Several leading universities abroad offer scholarship programs for international students. They are based both on merit and need.

• Merit-based scholarships: A student's overall academic performance is the primary eligibility criterion for these scholarships. Exceptional test scores in arts/sports help determine the awardee of these scholarships.

• Need-based scholarships: Applicants from Sri Lanka who are financially disadvantaged can avail of this scholarship to access quality education at international universities. They, however, need to demonstrate genuine financial need by providing proof of income.

• Country-specific scholarships: Some international students from specific countries are awarded scholarships exclusively. Sri Lankan students should check which country-specific scholarships they are eligible for.

• Fully funded/partial scholarships: Fully funded scholarships cover all costs of studying and living abroad. Partial scholarships, however, cover only a portion of the costs, reducing overall costs significantly.

Popular Scholarships by Study Destination

Sri Lankan students can access a range of scholarships abroad to reduce the overall cost of studying. Some of the top ones include GREAT Scholarships inthe UK, Manaaki NZ Scholarships in New Zealand, and Monash University Scholarships in Australia, among others.

The table below shares more scholarship programs for international students abroad:

_{Related Sources: 
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships/sri-lanka
https://www.trudeaufoundation.ca/scholarship/
https://www.ucc.ie/en/scholarships/all/allschexternal/artspgircpgs/
https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/study/international-students/meet-our-international-students/scholarship-student-stories/nzea-scholarships.html}

How to Apply for International Scholarships?

Confused about how to apply for scholarships abroad? Start by researching the options available on government and university websites, as well as those offered by private organisations and individual donors. Review the eligibility criteria, assemble the key documents, and prepare to craft a strong application.

Here's how you go about applying for a scholarship to study at an international university abroad:

• Begin early: It's always recommended to start the research process for scholarship programs abroad as early as possible. This is because some programs, such as fully funded scholarships, can be highly competitive and may fill out sooner.

• Check if you’re eligible: Common eligibility criteria include nationality, field of study, academic background, and financial need. These may also vary depending on the type of scholarship applied for.

• Submit the required documents: Review and submit the complete list of documents for the scholarship application. A few examples include a valid passport, proof of nationality, proof of identity, a compelling SOP, and official academic scores.

• Be thorough in your application: it is your only chance to secure the scholarship. Make sure to address all details thoroughly, double-check all documents, and proofread the application before submitting it.

Fully Funded vs. Partial Scholarships - What’s the Difference?

While fully funded scholarships cover all study and living costs for international students, partial scholarships cover only a portion of these costs. The table highlights the apparent differences between fully-funded and partial scholarships:

Common Eligibility Criteria to Receive a Scholarship

Sri Lankan students wanting to apply for financial aid abroad must meet some specific scholarship eligibility criteria. These include exceptional academic performance, proof of family income, or nationality. Internationalments for scholarships abroad depend on the type of scholarship applied for.

• Only professional degree courses are considered for scholarships.

• Completion of a higher secondary diploma is a prerequisite.

• Only first-year applicants are considered for a scholarship program.

• Eligibility for most scholarships is determined by academic merit.

_{Related Source: https://ffe.org/scholarships/#eligibilities} 

How to Improve the Chances of Getting a Scholarship for International Students?

Maintaining a consistently strong academic record and crafting an impressive application are among the best ways to secure scholarships for Sri Lankan students abroad. Some more tips are shared below on how to win scholarships for international students:

• Demonstrate exceptional academic performance.

• Showcase your extracurricular strengths.

• Apply early.

• Write a compelling application.

• Seek guidance from experts on crafting an impressive scholarship application.

How IDP Can Help You Apply for Scholarships

Looking for the best experts to help with applying for a scholarship? Count on the best in the industry - IDP Education - the top study abroad consultants who can simplify the entire scholarship application process for you. We offer end-to-end support in scholarship applications to make your study abroad dream come true. Get in touch with one of our experts today for a free consultation and start your scholarship application journey to study abroad without any financial worry!

FAQs on Scholarships for International Students

1. How to apply for international scholarships from Sri Lanka?

The first step to applying for a scholarship abroad is to research the top scholarship programs available for Sri Lankan students. Review the eligibility criteria for each and ensure you meet them. Prepare a strong application and submit it on time to avoid rejection.

2. How early should Sri Lankan students apply for scholarships?

Apply for a scholarship as early as possible, ideally 9-12 months before your intended start date for the program abroad. This is because some scholarships, such as fully funded ones, are highly competitive, and slots fill up quickly.

3. Can I apply for scholarships after starting a course abroad?

Yes, you can apply for a scholarship once you have started your study program abroad. However, you may need to check with the specific provider for any such conditions.

4. Are there scholarships specifically for Sri Lankan students studying abroad?

Of course! Many top scholarship programs abroad are targeted explicitly at Sri Lankan students. A few examples include the Chevening Scholarship, the UK, and the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA).

5. Do scholarships cover visa fees for Sri Lankan students?

Yes, many scholarships offered to students from Sri Lanka cover student visa fees as part of the fully funded scholarship program.

_{Updated on 22 January, 2026}