Top 10 Scholarships in Asia for International Students: Asia is fast becoming a hub for international students due to its world-class universities, diverse cultures, and rapidly growing economies. Several scholarships are available for international students wishing to pursue undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies at top institutions across the continent. Here are the top 10 scholarships in Asia for international students for the 2024-2025 academic year.
1. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships
The MEXT (Monbukagakusho) Scholarships are offered by the Japanese government to international students who wish to study in Japan. This scholarship supports undergraduate, graduate, and research students, covering all areas of study and providing full financial assistance.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Monthly living stipend and accommodation.
- Round-trip airfare.
- Open to students from around the world.
2. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) provides financial support to international students who wish to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D. programmes in Chinese universities. Administered by the China Scholarship Council, this scholarship is available for a wide range of disciplines and is offered through bilateral cooperation agreements.
Key Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition coverage.
- Monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Accommodation and medical insurance.
- Available to international students from all countries.
3. Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
The Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) is a collaboration between the Agency for Science, Technology & Research (A*STAR) and leading universities in Singapore. It provides scholarships to international students pursuing Ph.D. programmes in science and engineering.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly stipend of SGD 2,000 to SGD 2,500.
- Airfare and settling-in allowance.
- Open to international students with a focus on science, technology, and engineering.
4. Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is offered to outstanding international students who wish to pursue Ph.D. studies at top universities in Hong Kong. This scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and leadership skills.
Key Benefits:
- Annual stipend of HKD 322,800 (approximately USD 41,400).
- Conference and research travel allowance.
- Covers tuition fees and provides living allowances.
- Open to students from all over the world.
5. Korean Government Scholarship Programme (GKS)
The Korean Government Scholarship Program (GKS), formerly known as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), is offered to international students wishing to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies in South Korea. The programme supports a wide range of academic fields and promotes cross-cultural understanding.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Airfare, settlement allowance, and medical insurance.
- Open to students from over 150 countries.
6. Taiwan International Graduate Programme (TIGP)
The Taiwan International Graduate Program (TIGP) is a Ph.D. programme offered by Academia Sinica in collaboration with top Taiwanese universities. The programme focuses on interdisciplinary research in areas such as molecular science, biotechnology, and sustainable energy.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly stipend of NTD 34,000 (approximately USD 1,100).
- Travel grants and health insurance.
- Open to international Ph.D. students in various scientific fields.
7. Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Programme (ADB-JSP)
The ADB-Japan Scholarship Programme (ADB-JSP) offers financial support to international students from ADB member countries who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in economics, management, science, technology, and other development-related fields at participating universities in Asia, including Japan and Thailand.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition and fees.
- Monthly subsistence and housing allowance.
- Medical insurance, books, and travel expenses.
- Open to students from ADB’s developing member countries.
8. Malaysia International Scholarships (MIS)
The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) program is offered by the Malaysian government to international students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies at Malaysian universities.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Travel grants and health insurance.
- Open to students from selected countries pursuing master’s or PhD programmes.
9. Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Scholarships
The ICCR Scholarships are provided by the Indian government to international students from developing countries, offering opportunities to study in India across a wide range of academic disciplines. The programme supports undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Monthly stipend, accommodation, and medical insurance.
- Return airfare and book allowances.
- Available to students from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe.
10. President’s Graduate Fellowship at National University of Singapore (NUS)
The President’s Graduate Fellowship (PGF) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is awarded to outstanding international students pursuing Ph.D. studies. This prestigious fellowship is offered across various disciplines, including science, engineering, business, and the humanities.
Key Benefits:
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly stipend of SGD 3,500.
- Conference travel and book allowances.
- Open to both local and international students.
Conclusion
Asia offers a wealth of scholarships for international students, providing financial support for those looking to pursue higher education at some of the continent’s leading universities. These top 10 scholarships in Asia cover tuition, living expenses, and additional allowances, making it easier for students to achieve their academic goals in fields ranging from science and technology to business and the arts. With opportunities in Japan, China, Singapore, South Korea, and more, these scholarships can help international students access quality education in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.
