Finding a scholarship is one thing; meeting its requirements is another. You might have excellent grades, only to discover that a scholarship is limited to certain nationalities. Another opportunity may be open to applicants from your country but require professional experience, proof of English proficiency, or admission to a specific university.
These differences matter because preparing a scholarship application takes time. You may need official transcripts, recommendation letters, test results, or other documents that are not easy to gather quickly.
This guide explains the most common requirements for international scholarships, including academic qualifications, minimum grades, nationality, language proficiency, financial need, work experience, and required application documents. It will also help you understand how to check your eligibility before you apply, so you can focus on opportunities that truly match your circumstances.
What Do You Need to Qualify for a Scholarship?
Scholarship requirements are the conditions you must meet to be considered for financial support for your education. These conditions are set by the organisation offering the scholarship. For example, a university may place strong emphasis on academic performance. A government-funded programme might also consider factors such as nationality, work experience, leadership qualities, or your future plans.
There are two terms that are particularly important to understand:
- Eligibility requirements: The basic conditions you need to meet to submit an application, such as holding a relevant qualification or being a citizen of an eligible country.
- Selection criteria: The factors used to compare eligible applicants, such as academic achievement, research potential, leadership qualities, professional experience, or involvement in the community. Before you begin your search, you may want to explore our activities.
Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee that you will receive an award. You may be qualified to apply, but you will still be competing with other eligible candidates. It is also important to understand the difference between admission requirements and scholarship requirements. A university may offer you admission to a course, while its scholarship programme has additional criteria. In other cases, a scholarship may only consider your application once you have already applied for admission.
Before you begin your search, you may want to explore our scholarships for international students guide to understand the different funding options available.
1. Academic Requirements for Scholarships
Academic qualifications are one of the most common scholarship requirements. Scholarship providers want to be sure that applicants have the educational background needed for their intended programmes. The specific qualifications you need will depend on your level of study, your chosen subject, and your study destination.
Undergraduate scholarship requirements
Students applying for a bachelor’s degree abroad generally need to have completed secondary education or be on track to complete it before enrolment.
Depending on the university and the specific scholarship, you may be required to have:
- A secondary school certificate or equivalent qualification.
- Academic transcripts showing your subjects and grades.
- Results from required national examinations.
- Specific grades in subjects related to your intended course.
- Standardised test scores, where required.
- English-language evidence, if applicable.
For students considering studying in the United States, EducationUSA’s undergraduate application guidance explains common application materials, including academic records, test scores, recommendation letters, and personal statements.
Requirements vary between institutions, so a qualification accepted by one university may not automatically meet the admission criteria of another.
Master’s scholarship requirements
Most master’s scholarships require a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification that is recognized by the university.
Depending on the programme you are applying for, you may also need to provide:
- A minimum grade or degree classification.
- A relevant undergraduate background.
- Evidence of English-language proficiency.
- Academic or professional references.
- A personal statement.
- Relevant work experience.
- A research proposal for research-based programmes.
Some scholarships are open to applicants from a wide range of academic disciplines, while others require a degree in a specific subject area. See our guide on master’s scholarships for international students
PhD scholarship requirements
Doctoral funding often places greater emphasis on research preparation. Many programmes require a relevant master’s degree, although some universities allow well-qualified applicants to progress directly from a bachelor’s degree to doctoral study. Depending on the opportunity, you may also need to provide a research proposal, evidence of previous research experience, academic references, relevant technical skills, or confirmation of a suitable supervisor. For research-based funding, it is important to read the department’s requirements carefully. While a strong academic record is important, how well your proposed research aligns with the available project can also influence the final decision. See our guide on PhD scholarships for international students
2. Nationality and Residency Requirements
Some scholarships are open to applicants from around the world, while others are reserved for citizens or residents of specific countries. This is especially important for international students to note, as a scholarship that is advertised as an international opportunity may still have nationality restrictions.
Before applying, check whether:
- Your nationality is eligible.
- You must be living in your home country when applying.
- Your residency or immigration status affects eligibility.
- The award is restricted to particular countries or regions.
- You must return to your home country after your studies.
- Previous participation in a similar funding programme affects eligibility.
For example, the official Chevening eligibility criteria state that applicants must be citizens of an eligible country or territory. The programme also has specific requirements related to academic background, work experience, course selection, and a commitment to return home after completion.
Please note that these rules apply specifically to the Chevening Scholarship and not to every scholarship programme.
Similarly, the Fulbright Foreign Student Program explains that eligibility and application procedures vary by country. Applicants should follow the official guidance for their own country, rather than relying on a general description of the programme.
Practical tip: If you are applying from Nigeria or another African country, make sure to confirm your country’s eligibility on the official scholarship website. Just because a scholarship accepts international students does not automatically mean it is available to applicants from every African country.
3. Minimum Grades and GPA Requirements
One of the most common questions students ask is, “What grades do I need to get a scholarship abroad?” There is no single answer to this, as each scholarship provider sets its own academic criteria.
A scholarship may outline its minimum academic standard using:
- A GPA on a particular grading scale.
- A percentage score.
- A specific class of degree.
- Minimum grades in selected subjects.
- An equivalent qualification recognised by the destination university.
Avoid automatically converting your grades into a foreign GPA using a random online calculator. Grading systems vary across countries, and universities often use their own equivalency guidelines. If a scholarship requires a specific degree classification, refer to the official guidance to understand how your qualification will be assessed. If the equivalency is unclear, you can contact the admissions office for clarification.
Can you get a scholarship with average grades?
Yes, it may be possible, depending on the specific award. Some scholarships have strict minimum academic requirements, while others also consider additional factors such as financial need, leadership qualities, professional achievements, community involvement, or research potential. If your grades are not particularly strong, look for programmes where the published criteria align with your qualifications and strengths. However, do not assume that a strong personal statement will override a mandatory academic threshold. If a scholarship clearly states a minimum grade requirement, you should meet that condition unless the sponsor explicitly allows for an exception.
Do high grades guarantee a scholarship?
No. While strong academic performance can strengthen your application, the final selection may also depend on the scholarship’s other criteria, the quality of other applications, and the total number of awards available. The best approach is to understand the complete selection process rather than focusing on grades alone.
4. English-Language Requirements for Scholarships
International students applying to programmes taught in English may be required to demonstrate their English language proficiency. Depending on the institution, accepted evidence may include IELTS, TOEFL, another recognised language test, or an approved exemption. The specific requirements can vary based on the university, degree programme, scholarship, and the applicant’s background.
Before paying for an examination, check:
- Whether an English-language test is required.
- Which tests the institution accepts.
- Whether there is a minimum overall score.
- Whether individual test sections have minimum scores.
- Whether your previous education qualifies you for an exemption.
- How long does your test result remain valid for the application?
Can you get a scholarship without IELTS?
Yes, some scholarships and university pathways do not specifically require IELTS. However, this does not mean that all scholarships waive English language requirements. A university may accept a different approved test, recognise previous education completed in English, or offer an exemption under certain conditions. Another institution may still require IELTS or a specific alternative. It is also possible for a scholarship provider and a university to have different requirements. Being eligible for a scholarship does not automatically mean you have met the university’s admission criteria.
Read our guide to scholarships without IELTS for more information about alternative language evidence and exemptions.
Before you apply, make sure to check the language requirements with both the scholarship provider and the university offering your chosen course.
5. Required Scholarship Application Documents
Missing paperwork can weaken your application, even if you meet the academic and nationality requirements. It is a good idea to prepare a checklist for each scholarship, as different programmes may request different documents.
| Document | Why it may be required | What to check |
| Academic transcripts | To assess your educational record | Correct grades, official format, and translations if needed |
| Degree or school certificates | To verify qualifications | Whether certified copies are required |
| Personal statement | To understand your motivation and goals | Relevance, originality, and word limit |
| CV or résumé | To review education, experience, and achievements | Accuracy and relevance |
| Recommendation letters | To obtain an assessment from people who know your work | Referee suitability and submission instructions |
| English-language test results | To confirm language proficiency | Accepted tests, scores, and validity |
| Passport or identification | To verify identity and applicant details | Validity and consistency of personal information |
| Financial documents | To assess financial need, where applicable | Required records and supporting evidence |
| Research proposal | To assess a proposed research project | Research fit and programme instructions |
| Admission offer | To confirm university admission, where required | Whether a conditional offer is acceptable |
Not every applicant needs to submit the same documents. For example, a student applying for an undergraduate scholarship may not need a research proposal, while a PhD applicant will likely be expected to provide one.
How to prepare your documents
- Use the file formats specified by the scholarship provider.
- Make sure scanned documents are clear and readable.
- Check that your name and dates match across your documents.
- Arrange official translations if required.
- Request transcripts and recommendation letters early.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
- Never alter academic records or invent qualifications.
If a document is not available, contact the scholarship administrator to confirm whether an alternative can be accepted. Avoid leaving any required section blank.
6. Financial Need and Family Income Requirements
Some scholarships are designed to support students who cannot afford the full cost of their education. These are commonly referred to as need-based scholarships. A need-based programme may ask for evidence of household income, financial obligations, family circumstances, or other details relevant to your ability to pay for your studies. Depending on the sponsor, the required documents may include income statements, salary records, tax documents, a financial declaration, or other supporting evidence.
Does financial need guarantee a scholarship?
No. Demonstrating financial need may help you meet the eligibility criteria, but sponsors often consider other factors as well, such as your academic qualifications, the amount of funding available, and additional selection requirements. Some scholarships are merit-based and do not require proof of family income at all. When comparing different awards, it is important to check what the funding actually covers. For example, a scholarship that covers tuition fees may not include accommodation, food, insurance, travel, or other living expenses.
If funding is a major concern, our guide to studying abroad with little or no money explains other ways students can explore options to reduce the cost of studying abroad.
7. Work Experience, Leadership and Community Service
Some scholarships assess applicants on more than just academic performance. They may also consider professional experience, leadership qualities, volunteering, community involvement, or evidence of personal initiative.
Depending on the programme, relevant experience may include:
- Full-time or part-time employment.
- Internships.
- Voluntary work.
- Community projects.
- Student leadership.
- Research or professional projects.
- Activities related to your intended field of study.
The key difference is whether experience is a mandatory requirement or simply an added advantage during the selection process.
Example: Chevening’s work experience requirement
Chevening is a good example of a scholarship that has a specific work-experience requirement. According to its official guidance, applicants must have at least 2,800 hours of qualifying work experience, gained after completing their undergraduate degree and accumulated over a minimum of two years. This can include certain types of employment, voluntary work, and internships. Applicants must also meet all other eligibility conditions for the programme.
This requirement applies specifically to the Chevening programme. Many other master’s scholarships do not ask for two years of professional experience.
How to demonstrate leadership
If a scholarship asks about leadership, share a genuine example. Describe the situation, explain what you did, and highlight the outcome. You do not need to have held a prestigious title. What matters most is whether your example reflects the qualities the scholarship provider is looking for. Always be honest about your experience. Avoid exaggerating your responsibilities or inventing achievements to make your application appear stronger.
8. Research Proposals and Supervisor Requirements
Research proposals are especially relevant for some master’s by research and PhD scholarships. A proposal typically explains the problem you plan to investigate, why it is important, what you aim to discover, and how you intend to approach the research.
Depending on the programme, it may need to cover:
- A proposed research topic.
- Research questions or objectives.
- A brief discussion of existing research.
- A proposed methodology.
- The expected contribution of the project.
- References to relevant academic work.
The required length and structure can vary. Some programmes ask for a detailed proposal, while others only require a brief statement of your research interests.
Do you need to contact a professor before applying?
Not always. Some doctoral programmes expect applicants to identify a potential supervisor before they apply. Others advertise funded research projects directly or assign supervisors after admission. Be sure to read the department’s official guidance before contacting any academics. If you do need to email a potential supervisor, briefly explain your research interests, your relevant background, and why their work aligns with your proposed topic. Only prepare a research proposal if the programme asks for one. Always check the requirements and follow the official instructions.
9. Scholarship Requirements by Degree Level
The table below provides a general overview of common requirements by study level. It is intended as a guide only, not as a universal set of rules.
| Requirement | Undergraduate | Master’s | PhD |
| Previous qualification | Secondary school certificate or equivalent | Bachelor’s degree or equivalent | Often a relevant master’s degree; some programmes accept bachelor’s graduates |
| Academic records | School results and subject grades | Undergraduate transcript and degree classification | Relevant academic records and research preparation |
| Language evidence | If required | If required | If required |
| Personal statement | Often requested | Commonly requested | Maybe a personal or research statement. Maybe meant |
| References | Teachers or school officials, where requested | Academic or professional referees | Academic referees or research supervisors |
| Research proposal | Usually not required for standard bachelor’s entry | May be required for research degrees | Common for research-focused opportunities |
| Work experience | Not a universal requirement | Depends on the scholarship. | Depends on the scholarship or funded position. |
| Admission offer | Depends on the funding process. | Depends on the funding process. | Depends on the university or research programme |
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters information states that applicants generally need to hold a bachelor’s degree or be in the final year of their studies and graduate before the master’s programme begins. Each individual programme sets its own entry requirements and application procedures. This is why it is important to check the specific course page very well, even if you meet the general conditions for the funding scheme.
10. How to Check Whether You Qualify for a Scholarship
Before investing time in a full application, go through this quick screening process.
Step 1: Read the official eligibility page.
Check that you meet the requirements for nationality, academic qualifications, study level, and any mandatory residency or work experience.
Step 2: Check the course requirements.
Make sure the scholarship covers your intended subject, degree level, and institution. Some awards are limited to specific courses or participating universities.
Step 3: Compare your qualifications with the criteria.
Compare your grades, previous degree, language requirements, and other qualifications with the published criteria. If you are unsure how your international grades translate, contact the university for clarification.
Step 4: Review the document checklist.
Review which documents you already have and which ones you still need to request, translate, or prepare.
Step 5: Check the deadline and application process.
Check whether you need to apply to the university separately, whether references have a different deadline, and whether you must have an admission offer before the scholarship deadline.
Step 6: Confirm the funding conditions.
Check the scholarship amount, what expenses it covers, how long it lasts, and any conditions attached to accepting the award.
A practical scholarship eligibility checklist
Use this checklist for every scholarship you are considering.
- My nationality or residency meets the stated requirements.
- I meet the academic and degree-level requirements.
- My intended course or research area is eligible.
- I meet the minimum grade requirement if one applies.
- I understand the language requirements.
- I can obtain the required documents and references.
- I meet any work-experience or financial-need conditions.
- I understand the deadline and submission process.
- I have checked what the scholarship covers.
- I have reviewed any obligations attached to accepting the award.
If any mandatory requirement is unclear, contact the scholarship administrator before you proceed. This can save you time and help you avoid applying for an opportunity you are not eligible for.
Common Scholarship Application Mistakes to Avoid
Applying without reading the eligibility criteria
Finding a scholarship is only the first step. You also need to meet its requirements. Be sure to review the eligibility criteria carefully before you start your application.
Assuming every scholarship has the same rules
There is no single checklist that applies to all scholarships. A requirement for one government scholarship may not apply to a university award.
Confusing university admission with scholarship eligibility
Meeting a university’s admission requirements does not automatically qualify you for its scholarships, as some funding programmes have additional conditions.
Paying for a language test too early
Before paying for any exam, confirm which tests are accepted, the minimum scores required, any possible exemptions, and how long the results remain valid.
Submitting incomplete documents
Missing references, unreadable scans, inconsistent names, and incorrect file formats can cause problems that are easy to avoid.
Assuming high grades guarantee funding
While academic performance is important, sponsors may also consider other criteria, especially when competition for limited awards is strong.
Trusting scholarship guarantees
Be cautious of anyone who guarantees scholarship approval in exchange for payment. Always verify opportunities through official sources and keep your personal and financial information secure.
Common Questions About Scholarship Requirements
What are the general requirements for a scholarship?
Common requirements often include relevant academic qualifications, proof of nationality or residency, a completed application form, and academic transcripts. Some scholarships may also ask for a personal statement, recommendation letters, language test results, work experience, or proof of financial need.
What GPA do I need to get a scholarship abroad?
There is no single GPA requirement for all scholarships. Some programs list a specific minimum, while others consider additional criteria. Always check the official scholarship details and the university’s grading guidelines.
Can I get a scholarship without work experience?
Yes. Many undergraduate scholarships do not require work experience, and postgraduate requirements can vary. However, some programs, such as Chevening, do have specific work experience requirements.
Do all international scholarships require IELTS?
No. Some universities accept alternative English language tests or offer exemptions, while others require a specific test and minimum score. It is best to check the scholarship and university requirements separately.
Can I apply for a scholarship before receiving university admission?
Sometimes. Some scholarships have a separate application, while others require you to first secure an admission offer or apply for an eligible course. Always follow the official instructions to confirm the correct process.
Can students from Nigeria and other African countries apply for international scholarships?
Yes, many programs welcome eligible applicants from African countries. However, nationality and residency requirements vary, so make sure your country is included for that specific opportunity.
Do scholarships cover all study expenses?
Not always. Some scholarships cover tuition fees only, while others also include support for living expenses, travel, or other approved costs. Be sure to read the award terms carefully and budget for any expenses that are not covered.
What happens if I do not meet one scholarship requirement?
If a requirement is listed as mandatory and you do not meet it, you may not be eligible for that award. If the rule is unclear or exceptions are mentioned, consider contacting the scholarship provider for clarification. Otherwise, focus on opportunities that align more closely with your qualifications.
Final Thoughts
Scholarship requirements vary widely. Some programmes prioritise academic grades; others look for professional experience, while some focus on research potential or financial need. The best approach is to check the eligibility criteria before starting your full application. Make sure your qualifications match, understand the language and document requirements, and confirm what expenses the award will cover. If one scholarship is not the right fit, do not be discouraged. Use what you learn from each application to find opportunities that better align with your academic background and goals.
Start with our scholarships for international students guide and compare the requirements of programmes that suit your study plans.
Please note: Scholarship requirements and deadlines can change over time. Always confirm the latest eligibility criteria with the official scholarship provider and the university before you apply.
