It is easier than ever to get a degree from an international university without leaving your home country. Multiple global funding organisations are providing “distance learning” scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year, covering 100% of international tuition fees.
1. Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships (UK)
One of the most prestigious ‘full-ride’ opportunities for students in developing Commonwealth countries to study for a UK Master’s Degree at a distance.
- The Award: Full funding (100% tuition fees and specific study grants).
- Target Countries: Includes Nigeria, Kenya, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Rwanda, Uganda and others.
- 2026/2027 Cycle: * Due date: March 31, 2026 (Recently closed)
- • 2027 intake: Applications for the academic year 2027/2028 are expected to open in late 2026.
- Host institutions: Often include The Open University, the University of Oxford (MSc in International Human Rights Law) and the University of Edinburgh.
2. “Free Degree” Money (University of the People (UoPeople))
UoPeople is a fully online, accredited American university. It is “tuition-free”, but there are assessment fees; those fees are fully covered by these scholarships.
- • IB M.Ed. Scholarship (Master of Education)
- The Award: Fully funded (Covers all assessment fees, application fees and transfer fees).
- 2026 Window: Open May 4, 2026 and close May 24, 2026.
- Requirement: A 3-minute video pitch and a professional recommendation.
- Simone Biles Legacy Scholarship:
- Target: International students with financial need, particularly those who have been in foster care.
- • Status: Applications considered for each term (next deadline: May 28, 2026)
3. Western Governors University (WGU) Technology & Business Scholarships
WGU is a U.S. leader in competency-based education and enables students to accelerate their degrees.
- • AI Edge Scholarship:
- The Award: $5,000 for students with degrees in AI-related technology.
- The last day is June 30, 2026.
- Scholarship Cybersecurity
- The Award: Up to $6,000 for undergraduate or graduate students in Cybersecurity.
- The last day is June 30, 2026.
- WGU is mainly for U.S. residents, but “eligible noncitizens” and those with certain international status can apply. You need to have received provisional admission before you are eligible to apply for scholarships.
4. NL Scholarship (Netherlands)
The Holland Scholarship (formerly the Holland Scholarship) is available to non-EEA students taking a degree course at one of the Dutch research universities taking part in the scheme, many of which offer online or “blended” modules.
- • The Award: €5,000 (awarded in first year of study)
- 2026/2027 Cycle: *Opened: Nov. 1, 2025.
- Deadlines: Depends on the university (usually May 1, 2026 or June 1, 2026).
- Institutions involved: University of Groningen, Maastricht University, VU University Amsterdam.
5. GREAT Scholarships (UK Online/Hybrid Tracks)
The British Council provides GREAT scholarships for one-year postgraduate degrees. Many are on campus, but more partnered courses are available for hybrid or online entry.
- • The Award: £10,000 towards tuition fees
- 2026/2027 Cycle: Now Open.
- Citizens from 18 countries, including Nigeria, India, Turkey and Vietnam.
- Deadline: Most institutional deadlines are between May and June 2026.
How to Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad Online in 2026
- The “Mechanical Necessity” Method: Online colleges target students who have a specific reason for taking courses at a distance. In your essay, explain how you can keep working on your current professional projects and get international experience by staying in your home country.
- Check “Distance” rules: Major scholarships (Chevening, for example) do not often accept 100% online study. Before applying, please ensure that your scholarship allows for “Distance Learning” (like the Commonwealth DL).
- Video Pitch Readiness: The 3-minute video pitch is a mandatory part of all 2026 UoPeople applications. Emphasise your ‘home-country impact’ – how your degree will solve a problem at home.
- Academic Transcripts: Most online international scholarships require a minimum 2:1 (Upper Second Class) or 3.0 GPA equivalent. Have your transcripts scanned and ready to upload by the deadline.
Conclusion: Education, Global, Anywhere
Online universities worldwide can provide you a global credential without the cost of moving.
Action Plan 2026:
- Educators: The application period for the UoPeople IB M.Ed. scholarship is from May 4 to May 24, 2026.
- Dutch applicants: Please check the NL scholarship deadline for your Dutch university choice as soon as possible, as many close in May.
- UK Distance Seekers: Begin work on your 2027 “Impact Statement” for the Commonwealth Distance Learning launch in late 2026.
