Studying in Europe has always been a dream for many Iranian students. While most people believe studying abroad requires paying high tuition fees, the truth is that there are lesser-known scholarships in European universities that can significantly reduce the costs of education and living.
Studying in Europe has always been a dream for many Iranian students. While most people believe studying abroad requires paying high tuition fees, the truth is that there are lesser-known scholarships in European universities that can significantly reduce the costs of education and living.
In this article, we will introduce hidden scholarships for Iranian students in Europe, explain why they are valuable, and show you how to increase your chances of receiving them.
Why Choose Lesser-Known Scholarships?
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Less competition: Famous scholarships like Erasmus Mundus or DAAD attract thousands of applicants, but hidden opportunities usually have fewer applicants.
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Better financial coverage: Some of these scholarships cover not only tuition fees but also living costs, insurance, and even travel expenses.
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Specific fields of study: Certain scholarships are designed for fields that receive less attention, such as arts, agriculture, or humanities.
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Unique experience: Regional or local scholarships often lead students to smaller cities and universities, offering an authentic cultural experience.
Examples of Lesser-Known Scholarships in Europe for Iranians
1. Regional Scholarships in Italy
Some Italian regions such as Lazio and Emilia-Romagna provide scholarships for international students. Benefits often include:
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Full or partial tuition fee waivers
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Annual living allowance (between €2,000–€5,000)
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Affordable student accommodation
2. Tempus Foundation Grants in Hungary
Besides the well-known Stipendium Hungaricum, the Tempus Foundation offers smaller grants for short-term programs, workshops, and research projects.
3. Local Scholarships in Spain
Universities in Catalonia and the Basque Country offer scholarships that are rarely listed on international platforms. These are usually aimed at students in language, literature, and social sciences.
4. Development Scholarships in Finland
Contrary to popular belief, some smaller Finnish universities (in Tampere or Jyväskylä) provide scholarships for students from developing countries, including Iran, covering full tuition fees.
5. Cultural Scholarships in Poland
The Polish Ministry of Culture provides scholarships for artistic fields like music, painting, and architecture. Iranian art students often overlook these opportunities despite their high acceptance rates.
Summary Table of Hidden Scholarships in Europe
Country |
Scholarship Name |
Coverage |
Best for Fields |
Italy |
Regional Scholarships |
Tuition + Living Allowance |
All fields |
Hungary |
Tempus Foundation |
Short-term + Research |
Research students |
Spain |
Local Catalonia/Basque |
Partial Tuition + Housing |
Humanities & Social Sci. |
Finland |
Development Grants |
Full Tuition Waiver |
STEM fields |
Poland |
Ministry of Culture |
Living Costs + Art Support |
Arts & Architecture |
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting These Scholarships
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Prepare a strong CV: Update your academic achievements, publications, and extracurricular activities.
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Learn the local language: Knowing Italian, Spanish, Hungarian, or other local languages can greatly boost your chances.
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Apply early: Many of these scholarships have limited application windows.
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Work with experienced advisors: Professional consultants can help you navigate hidden opportunities.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Hidden Scholarships
Advantages:
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Higher acceptance chances
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Better financial coverage
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Exposure to unique cultures and smaller universities
Disadvantages:
Conclusion
Europe is full of scholarship opportunities, many of which remain unknown to Iranian students. If you want to study in Europe with lower costs, you should look beyond the famous programs and explore these hidden gems.
👉 For the best guidance, you need an experienced advisor.
Globe Goal is a trusted consulting group specializing in educational scholarships and student migration. With the help of Globe Goal, you can discover these hidden opportunities and secure your academic future in Europe.
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