LooAre you searching for fully funded scholarships in 2025 that are less competitive? While popular options like Chevening, Fulbright, or DAAD attract thousands of applications, some incredible hidden scholarships 2025 often go unnoticed. These “hidden gem” programs provide generous funding, better chances of selection, and opportunities across the globe.
Here are 7 hidden scholarships in 2025 you probably haven’t heard of, but absolutely should apply for.
1. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) – Master’s in Development 2025
- Deadline: 27 May 2025 (second application window)
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, health insurance
- Eligibility: Citizens of developing countries, including India; must have relevant professional experience
- Level: Master’s degree in development-related fields
- Apply at: www.worldbank.org
2. Allan & Nesta Ferguson Charitable Trust Scholarship – UK (International Development Focus)
- Deadline: 30 June 2025 (varies by university)
- Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, airfare
- Eligibility: Students from developing countries; offered at universities like Sheffield, UEA
- Level: Master’s programs in international development
- Apply at: Through participating universities (e.g., University of Sheffield)
3. Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Program 2025
- Deadline: 15 July 2025
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, medical support, travel
- Eligibility: Citizens of IsDB member countries (India included under special agreement), strong academic background
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
- Apply at: www.isdb.org
4. Orange Knowledge Programme – Netherlands
- Deadline: 5 September 2025
- Coverage: Full tuition, travel, visa, and health insurance
- Eligibility: Mid-career professionals from select countries (including India) in priority sectors
- Level: Short courses & Master’s degrees
- Apply at: www.nuffic.nl
5. Wells Mountain Initiative (WMI) Scholars Program
- Deadline: 1 July 2025
- Coverage: Up to $3,000/year for tuition and expenses
- Eligibility: Students from developing countries with proven passion for community service
- Level: Undergraduate
- Apply at: www.wellsmountaininitiative.org
6. Taiwan ICDF International Higher Education Scholarship
- Deadline: 30 June 2025 (most programs)
- Coverage: Tuition, monthly living allowance, airfare, textbooks, insurance
- Eligibility: Applicants from developing countries; must apply through partner universities
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
- Apply at: www.icdf.org.tw
7. Romania Government Scholarship 2025
- Deadline: 31 July 2025 (via diplomatic missions)
- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend
- Eligibility: Non-EU students, including Indians; requires application via Romanian embassy
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
- Apply at: www.mae.ro
✅ Why These Scholarships Are “Hidden”
These scholarships often don’t appear on mainstream platforms, which makes them less competitive compared to global names. Many are targeted at specific regions, universities, or development fields. If you match their profile, your chances of winning a fully funded scholarship in 2025 increase significantly.
They are often overlooked because students focus only on big names like Rhodes, Chevening, or DAAD—but these hidden scholarships 2025 can be your golden ticket.
📌 Final Tips for Applying in 2025
- Apply early—don’t wait until the last week
- Carefully read eligibility criteria and required documents
- Prioritize scholarships with regional or subject focus (less competition)
- Always check the official website for updated deadlines
- Prepare strong SOPs, recommendation letters, and highlight community impact
🔑 Key Takeaway
Don’t limit yourself to only famous programs. These hidden scholarships in 2025 are fully funded, cover tuition and living costs, and give you a better shot at success. Start exploring, shortlist the ones you’re eligible for, and apply before deadlines close in mid-2025
