Political science is still a top priority for global governance and international development in 2026. Increasingly, fully funded opportunities prioritise climate policy, conflict resolution, and inclusive governance. This guide has the most up-to-date information and timelines for the 2027 intake.
1. The Best “Full-Ride” Government Grants
These programs are the best for future diplomats and policymakers because they cover everything, including tuition, international travel, and monthly stipends.
Chevening Scholarships in the UK
- The Prize: Full funding for a one-year master’s degree in political science, international relations, or public policy.
- Target: New leaders who have worked for at least two years (about 2,800 hours).
- Applications for the 2027 intake usually open in August 2026 and close in November 2026.
- Tip for strategy: ensure your application fits with global goals, like “Strengthening Security in a Volatile World” or “Inclusive Societies.”
Fulbright Programme for Foreign Students in the US
- The Prize: Full funding for a master’s or PhD programme. The competition for 2027–2028 is now open in several places.
- For many countries, the national deadline is Tuesday, October 6, 2026.
- Requirement: Candidates must show that they can lead and are committed to cross-cultural exchange. Note: Grants for the school year 2027–2028 must start by June 1, 2028.
DAAD Study Scholarships in Germany
- The prize is a monthly payment of €992 for a master’s degree or €1,300 or more for a PhD, as well as health insurance and travel.
- The Study of Politics Focus: Look for the EPOS (Development-Related) track for a master’s degree in peace and conflict studies or international relations.
- 2027 Cycle: The deadlines for the 2027 intake are usually between August and November 2026.
2. Awards for Institutional and Regional Excellence
Stipendium Hungaricum (in Hungary)
- The prize is full tuition, a place to live in a dorm, health insurance, and a monthly allowance of about 43,700 HUF.
- 2027 Intake: You can apply for the September 2027 intake from November 2026 to January 15, 2027.
- Requirement: Your home country’s Ministry of Education must nominate you.
Griffith University Academic Merit Scholarship (Australia)
- The Award: For eligible international students, it covers 20% of their tuition for the whole programme.
- Status: We review your degree application throughout the year, including applications for the 2026 and 2027 intakes.
3. Erasmus Mundus: An Important Update for 2026
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) is currently going through a change in status.
- European Culture Update: There are no Erasmus Mundus scholarships available for this programme for the 2026-2027 academic year because they are waiting to be re-selected.
- GLOCAL (Global Markets, Local Creativities) closed applications for the 2026 scholarship on January 15, 2026.
- The outlook for 2027 is: Full scholarships (about €1,400 per month) are expected to be available again for the 2027–2029 intake in the EMJM catalogue. New programme listings will be available in late 2026.
4. How to Avoid IELTS for Political Science in 2026
Political science is a field that requires a lot of communication, but you can avoid the $250 IELTS by using these tips:
- Medium of Instruction (MOI): If you got your bachelor’s degree in English, many UK universities and the DAAD in Germany will accept a MOI letter from your registrar.
- The University of Glasgow (GLOCAL) and many US schools now accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as a faster, $59 option.
- Professional Waiver: If you have worked for an international NGO or embassy for at least three years, where English is the main language, some UK master’s programmes will let you skip the test.
5. Important Timeline for 2026 and 2027
- Complete your research proposal (for PhD) or policy statement (for master’s) by May to July 2026.
- The Chevening (UK) application portal opens for the 2027 intake in August 2026.
- October 6, 2026, is the national deadline for many Fulbright (USA) programmes.
- In November 2026, applications for the Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary) for 2027 will be open.
Final Thoughts
The Chevening and DAAD programmes are still the best way for a master’s to move in 2027. If you are an American student or want to study in the US, the Fulbright 2027 cycle is your top priority right now. As 2027 committees are putting “Actionable Research” first, make sure your application focuses on how you will use political theory to solve real-world problems with government.
