If you are a student from Indonesia and want to study in Europe, scholarships can help with tuition, living costs, or both. The most realistic options are usually Erasmus Mundus, national government schemes, university scholarships, and fee waivers. You should check each programme's official site, because rules, eligible countries, and deadlines change from year to year.
Main scholarship types to look for
Start with the programmes that are open to international students and have a clear official selection process. Many strong students apply to more than one type at the same time.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters - international master's programmes run by several European universities. They often include a scholarship that may cover tuition, travel, and part of living costs. Check the official Erasmus Mundus catalogue and each programme page.
- Government programmes - some countries offer scholarships for international students, such as DAAD in Germany, the Holland Scholarship in the Netherlands, and the Swedish Institute scholarships. The exact offer and eligibility depend on the country and the year, so use the scholarship's own site.
- National merit schemes - some universities or national agencies give awards based on grades, motivation, or research potential. These are often competitive and may be limited to certain degree levels or subjects.
- University scholarships and tuition waivers - many universities offer partial fee reductions, automatic merit scholarships, or need-based support. These are usually listed on the university's admissions or financial aid page.
What scholarship providers usually ask for
Most scholarships want proof that you are a good academic fit and that you can succeed in the programme. The exact list is different for each scholarship, but these documents are common.
- Academic records - transcripts, diploma, or current study results.
- English proof - often IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test. Some programmes accept a previous degree taught in English, but you must check the rules.
- Motivation letter - explain why you want the programme, why that country, and how it fits your study plan.
- CV or resume - show studies, projects, work, volunteering, and awards.
- References - usually one or two recommendation letters from teachers, lecturers, or employers.
- Portfolio or research proposal - needed for some art, design, or research degrees.
Some scholarships also ask for proof of financial need, leadership work, or community impact. Read the instructions carefully, because missing one required item can make your application fail.
Deadlines and timing
Deadlines are one of the biggest traps. They are often much earlier than the course start date, and they can be different from the university application deadline.
- Many major scholarships open once a year and close several months before the academic year starts.
- Erasmus Mundus deadlines are often in the winter for programmes starting the following autumn, but this varies by programme.
- Government scholarships may have fixed annual calls, and some open only for certain study levels or fields.
- University scholarships may be automatic when you apply, or they may require a separate form.
Use a simple rule: check the official scholarship page early, then check it again when the next call opens. Make a list of documents at least a few months ahead, because some papers take time to get, such as language tests and recommendation letters.
How to make your application stronger
You do not need to be perfect. You need to show a clear fit between your background, the scholarship, and the study plan.
- Match your story to the programme - explain why this subject, why this university or country, and how it helps your future goals.
- Keep your grades visible - strong academic results matter for many merit-based awards.
- Show activity outside class - internships, projects, volunteering, student leadership, or competitions can help.
- Write a focused motivation letter - be specific. Use examples, not only general praise.
- Check language carefully - many strong applications lose points because of unclear English or missing details.
If your grades are average, do not give up. Some scholarships also look at leadership, community work, or a strong personal project. If your profile is not strong enough for a full scholarship, a university fee waiver or partial award may still be possible.
Where to search first
Use official sources first. That saves time and reduces the risk of fake or outdated offers.
- University admissions pages - search for scholarships, tuition waivers, and financial aid.
- National scholarship agencies - for example DAAD, Swedish Institute, and the Dutch university or scholarship pages that list international awards.
- Erasmus Mundus catalogue - for joint master's programmes with scholarships.
- Scholarship search tools - useful for ideas, but always confirm the rules on the official site before you apply.
For Indonesian students, it can also help to check whether your current university, alumni network, or education advisers share trusted scholarship news. But always verify on the official programme page before you spend time on an application.
Common questions
Can I get a full scholarship in Europe from Indonesia?
Yes, it is possible, but it is competitive. Full scholarships are usually reserved for strong academic profiles, a clear motivation letter, and complete documents. Check the official scholarship site to see if it covers tuition only or also living costs, travel, and insurance.
Do I need perfect grades?
No, but good grades help a lot for merit-based scholarships. Some programmes also value work experience, leadership, community impact, or a strong portfolio. Read the selection criteria on the official page, because different scholarships weigh different things.
Can I apply before I get my final diploma?
Sometimes yes. Many programmes allow you to apply with current transcripts if you are in your final year, but you will usually need to submit final documents later if you are selected. Check the admissions page or scholarship rules for the exact process.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
That gives you more chances to be noticed by programmes that match your background, without applying blindly to every scholarship you see.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.