Teaching is one of the most powerful things a human being can do. Yet for many educators and aspiring education professionals around the world, advancing their own learning feels financially out of reach. It does not have to be. In 2026, a remarkable number of governments, universities, and international organisations are offering fully funded or heavily subsidised Masters in Education scholarships – for teachers, researchers, school leaders, and education policy enthusiasts across the globe.
Whether you want to study online from home, move to Europe, research in Japan, or lead a classroom transformation in Africa, there is something on this list for you. Here are 18 open or soon – to – open opportunities you should know about right now.
1. IB & University of the People M.Ed. Scholarship (100% Online)
Deadline: May 24, 2026
Host: University of the People (USA – accredited) | Online
This is the most time – sensitive opportunity on this entire list. The International Baccalaureate and the University of the People have partnered to award scholarships for educators worldwide to earn a Master of Education degree. Since 2020 the programme has awarded more than 500 scholarships, with more than 240 scholars successfully completing their degree.
The scholarship covers 100% of M.Ed. course assessment fees for all 13 required courses, including the capstone project. The degree is delivered entirely online.
Applications Timelines:
- Opened May 4
- Close May 24, 2026
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree, be fluent in English, and have some teaching experience, while demonstrating a commitment to education, IB pedagogy, and their local community.
Apply: ibo.org
2. Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarship (Masters in Online Teaching)
Deadline: March 31, 2026 (check for 2027 cycle)
Host: The Open University, United Kingdom | Online
The Open University’s Institute of Educational Technology has been awarded fully funded Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships for citizens of eligible Commonwealth countries, including Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, and many more. The programme covers the Masters in Online Teaching (MAOT), studied entirely online. The scholarships are funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and are intended to contribute to development needs by enabling talented individuals to access training while remaining in their home countries.
This is a perfect fit for educators who want to upskill in digital learning and educational technology without leaving their country or their job.
Apply: open.ac.uk
3. DAAD In – Country/In – Region Scholarship (Masters for Sub – Saharan Africans)
Deadline: Varies by institution | Open Now
Host: Multiple African universities
The DAAD In – Country/In – Region Scholarships aim to foster strong, internationally oriented higher education systems in Sub – Saharan Africa. The scholarship offers full sponsorship covering tuition fees, stipends of up to €8,920 per year, health insurance, and study and research allowances.
DAAD is currently offering scholarships for different Master programmes for students from Sub – Saharan African countries at selected institutions, with a scholarship start date between January and July 2027. This means applications are open right now.
Female applicants and candidates from less – privileged regions are especially encouraged to apply.
Apply: daad.de
4. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (Masters in the USA)
Deadline: Varies by country (February–October 2026)
Host: Top US universities | USA
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program enables graduate students, young professionals and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the United States at US universities or other academic institutions. Approximately 4,000 foreign students receive Fulbright scholarships each year. The grant generally funds tuition, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance for the duration of the study.
Education is an eligible field of study and Fulbright is one of the most respected scholarships in the world. Because the deadline varies by country, check your local US Embassy or Fulbright Commission for the specific date in your country. Many African countries have deadlines between June and October 2026 for the 2027–2028 academic year.
Apply: fulbrightprogram.org
If you are interested in other competitive opportunities to study in the United States, check out this post: Study in the United States with the Graduate Scholarship for Emerging Leaders
5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (Study Across Multiple European Countries)
Deadline: Varies by programme (most open October–January)
Host: Consortium of European universities | Europe
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters is one of the most generous scholarship programs in the world. It covers tuition, flights, and insurance, and provides a monthly living allowance of €1,400. Over two years, that totals €33,600.
Several Erasmus Mundus programmes are directly relevant to education, including Education in Museums and Heritage (EDUMaH), educational leadership, and curriculum studies. Rather than a standard degree in one city over two years, this programme brings you to at least two European countries, delivering a life – changing experience rather than just financial aid.
The next major application window typically opens in October 2026 for the 2027 cohort. Start identifying your preferred programme now.
Apply: erasmus – plus.ec.europa.eu
6. Chevening Scholarship (Any Masters in the UK)
Status: Next cycle opens October 2026
Host: UK Government | United Kingdom
Chevening is one of the most recognised scholarship brands in the world and it funds a full year masters at virtually any UK university, including education. Chevening covers full funding including flights, accommodation, and course fees, enabling recipients to focus on professional goals and enjoy a transformative experience in the UK.
The 2027/28 cycle opens October 2026. If Chevening is your goal, you should start now: building your leadership narrative, identifying three universities, and requesting references.
Apply: chevening.org
For more UK – based funding you can explore right now, read about how to study at a top UK university with the Africa Development Scholarship.
7. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship (Masters in Germany)
Deadline: March and September annually | Check for next cycle
Host: Heinrich Böll Foundation | Germany
Germany is one of the few countries in the world where public university tuition is essentially free. But living costs remain a barrier for many international students. The Heinrich Böll Foundation closes that gap. As we explored in our dedicated guide, the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship covers monthly living costs, health insurance, and study expenses on top of the already – free tuition.
Recipients are also integrated into an active political and academic network, making this an ideal scholarship for those interested in education policy, social justice, or community development.
Apply: boell.de
8. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS/KGSP) – Masters in South Korea
Deadline: February–March 2026 (annual)
Host: Korean government | South Korea
The Global Korea Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship programme sponsoring more than 2,000 international students from 155 countries who wish to pursue a graduate – level degree – Masters or PhD – or research in Korea.
Scholarship benefits include a plane ticket to and from South Korea, a monthly allowance of ₩900,000 for Masters students, a research allowance per semester, free one – year Korean language training, health insurance, and reimbursement of thesis printing fees.
South Korea has one of the strongest education research systems in Asia, making it a compelling destination for educators and education researchers alike.
Apply: studyinkorea.go.kr
9. Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship (Masters in Japan)
Deadline: Varies by embassy (typically May–June)
Host: Japanese Ministry of Education | Japan
The Japanese Government MEXT Scholarship is currently accepting applications for 2026–2027. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology offers scholarships to international students who wish to study graduate courses at Japanese universities, including master’s programmes, doctoral programmes, and professional graduate courses.
Japan has a deeply respected tradition of educational excellence and research into pedagogy. The MEXT scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, monthly living allowance, and round – trip airfare. Check with your local Japanese Embassy for your country’s specific deadline.
Apply: studyinjapan.go.jp
If you are interested in fully funded research opportunities in Japan, you might also want to read about how to get paid to live and research in Japan with the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship.
10. Türkiye Bursları Scholarship (Masters in Turkey)
Deadline: February – March annually
Host: Turkish Government | Turkey
The Türkiye Bursları Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship for international students offered for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies. It covers a monthly stipend, tuition fees, a return flight ticket, health insurance, and accommodation.
Turkey has a rapidly growing higher education sector with an increasing number of English – taught Masters programmes, including in education, educational management, and curriculum development. The scholarship is open to students from over 180 countries.
Apply: turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
11. University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship (New Zealand)
Deadline: Rolling | Open Year – Round
Host: University of Otago | New Zealand
As we have covered in detail on The Lantern Post, the University of Otago International Master’s Research Scholarship is one of the most attractive postgraduate funding opportunities currently available for international students. It covers tuition fees and provides a living stipend for the full duration of a research Masters degree — all in one of the safest and most beautiful countries in the world.
For those interested in education research, this is an excellent route to building rigorous academic credentials in a supportive environment. It is designed for International students with a strong academic background seeking a research – based master’s degree.
Apply: otago.ac.nz
12. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Deadline: Varies by institution | Open Now
Host: Mastercard Foundation + partner universities | Africa and beyond
Applications for full scholarships for online master’s degrees for Fall 2026–27 are now open. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides full scholarships in partnership with the American University of Beirut and other institutions.
The programme focuses on academically brilliant young Africans who are committed to giving back to their communities. Education is an eligible field. Multiple partner universities across Africa and North America are part of this programme, each with their own deadlines.
Apply: mastercardfdn.org
13. Australia Awards Scholarships
Deadline: Varies by country (typically April–June)
Host: Australian Government | Australia
Australia Awards Scholarships are provided by the Australian Government to students from developing countries, covering African countries including Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and many more, as well as countries across Asia and the Pacific.
The scholarship is fully funded, covering tuition, travel, living expenses, and health cover. Education and educational leadership are eligible fields of study. Check your country’s specific deadline through the official Australia Awards portal.
Apply: australiaawardscholarships.dfat.gov.au
14. SOAS Master’s Scholarships (Masters in the UK)
Deadline: June 30, 2026 Host: SOAS University of London | United Kingdom
The SOAS Master’s Scholarships are offered by the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London and are open to UK nationals, with a deadline of June 30, 2026. SOAS is one of the world’s leading institutions for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Education, development studies, and community – focused disciplines are well represented.
While primarily for UK nationals or those with UK residence, this is worth checking for your specific eligibility status.
Apply: soas.ac.uk
15. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Deadline: March–April annually
Host: Chinese Government | China
The Chinese Government Scholarship is fully funded. Only master’s and PhD programs are available under this scholarship at more than 280 Chinese universities. Education is an eligible field and China has invested enormously in its universities and education research infrastructure over the past decade.
The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly allowance. Applications go through the China Scholarship Council (CSC) portal and your local Chinese Embassy.
Apply: csc.edu.cn
16. Orange Knowledge Programme (Netherlands Government Scholarship)
Deadline: Varies by programme (typically January – April)
Host: Dutch Government | Netherlands
The Netherlands Government Scholarship under the Orange Knowledge Programme covers cost of living, tuition fees, visa, round – trip travel tickets, and health insurance for international students.
The Orange Knowledge Programme is specifically focused on capacity development in partner countries, with a strong preference for students in education, governance, and development – related fields. This is one of the more overlooked scholarships on this list – and that means less competition for eligible applicants.
Apply: nuffic.nl
17. ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarship
Deadline: December annually (for the following academic year)
Host: ETH Zurich | Switzerland
The ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarship is offered for master’s studies only and provides a grant covering living and study expenses of CHF 11,000 per semester as well as a tuition fee waiver.
ETH Zurich consistently ranks among the top universities in the world. While primarily known for science and technology, it offers programmes in educational science and science communication that attract education professionals. This is a highly competitive award but enormously rewarding for those who secure it.
Apply: ethz.ch
18. Hungarian Government Scholarship
Deadline: January – February annually
Host: Hungarian Government | Hungary
The Hungarian Government Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship for international students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, and PhD degrees at Hungarian universities.
Hungary is an often – overlooked destination for international postgraduate study. Tuition is free for scholarship recipients, and Budapest is one of Europe’s most affordable and historically rich capital cities. Education and teaching are eligible fields.
Apply: stipendiumhungaricum.hu
Scholarships at a Glance
| # | Scholarship | Country | Deadline |
| 1 | IB/UoPeople M.Ed. | Online (USA) | May 24, 2026 |
| 2 | Commonwealth Distance Learning | UK (Online) | March 2026 / 2027 |
| 3 | DAAD In – Country/In – Region | Africa | Rolling |
| 4 | Fulbright | USA | Feb – Oct (varies) |
| 5 | Erasmus Mundus | Europe | Oct- Jan |
| 6 | Chevening | UK | Oct 2026 |
| 7 | Heinrich Böll Foundation | Germany | Mar & Sep |
| 8 | Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) | South Korea | Feb-Mar |
| 9 | MEXT | Japan | May – Jun |
| 10 | Türkiye Bursları | Turkey | Feb – Mar |
| 11 | University of Otago | New Zealand | Rolling |
| 12 | Mastercard Foundation | Africa/Global | Varies |
| 13 | Australia Awards | Australia | Apr – Jun |
| 14 | SOAS Master’s | UK | Jun 30, 2026 |
| 15 | Chinese Government (CSC) | China | Mar – Apr |
| 16 | Orange Knowledge Programme | Netherlands | Jan – Apr |
| 17 | ETH Zurich Excellence | Switzerland | December |
| 18 | Hungarian Government | Hungary | Jan – Feb |
Final Thoughts
If you are an educator, a teacher – in – training, an education researcher, or someone who simply believes that learning should be a lifelong pursuit – 2026 is one of the best years in recent memory to go after a fully funded Masters in Education. The opportunities above span six continents, dozens of countries, and dozens of specialisations. Some are fully online, allowing you to earn a world – class degree without leaving your job or your family. Others will take you to Japan, South Korea, Germany, Switzerland, or Australia. All of them are legitimate, well – funded, and actively recruiting strong candidates.
The biggest mistake most people make is waiting until they feel “ready.” By the time they feel ready, the deadline has passed. The second biggest mistake is applying to only one scholarship. Apply to several – the process of applying improves your application across the board.
Start with what is open right now (the IB/UoPeople scholarship closes May 24, 2026), and then build your application pipeline for the rest of the year. Your next degree is out there. Go get it.
Looking for more scholarship opportunities? Browse our full Education section for daily updates on scholarships, fellowships, and study abroad programmes worldwide. You may also want to explore the top 15 MBA scholarships in the world Today. if a business education is your goal.
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