If you’re a student with strong academic performance, leadership qualities, or special talents, merit-based scholarships can be a great way to fund your education. Unlike need-based scholarships that focus on your financial background, merit-based awards reward your achievements—be it in academics, sports, music, or leadership.
Whether you’re applying to college in the U.S., Canada, Europe, or anywhere else, there are many opportunities available for both domestic and international students. The best part? Many of these scholarships cover full tuition, living expenses, and even travel costs.
Here’s a list of 25+ merit-based scholarships you should absolutely check out.
Coca-Cola Scholars Program (USA)
This prestigious award is for high school seniors in the U.S. who have shown leadership, service, and academic excellence. Winners receive $20,000.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
Open to international students pursuing a postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge. It covers full tuition, living expenses, and airfare.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Canada)
Offered by the University of Toronto, this award is for international students with outstanding academic records and leadership abilities.
National Merit Scholarship Program (USA)
Based on PSAT/NMSQT scores, this scholarship is one of the most well-known for high-achieving U.S. students.
Chevening Scholarships (UK)
Funded by the UK government, this scholarship is awarded to students with leadership potential from over 160 countries.
DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service offers fully funded scholarships to high-achieving international students for study in Germany.
Monash International Merit Scholarship (Australia)
This scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students studying at Monash University.
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship (New Zealand)
The University of Otago offers this scholarship to top-performing international undergraduate students.
Rhodes Scholarship (UK)
One of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarships for postgraduate students at the University of Oxford.
Knight-Hennessy Scholars (USA)
This program funds graduate students at Stanford University who show leadership, innovation, and academic excellence.
University of Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship (Australia)
Awarded to high-achieving international students, covering part or all of the tuition fees.
Emile Boutmy Scholarship (France)
Sciences Po in Paris offers this to top international students from outside the EU, based on academic merit.
Hungarian Government Stipendium Scholarship (Hungary)
Open to international students, this scholarship covers full tuition, a monthly stipend, and accommodation support.
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)
Awarded to graduate students and researchers with outstanding academic records.
University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (Netherlands)
For talented international students applying for Master’s programs, especially in the humanities and social sciences.
Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
These scholarships support students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries to study in the UK.
Truman Scholarship (USA)
For U.S. college juniors who plan to pursue careers in public service and have a strong academic background.
Yale University Scholarships (USA)
Yale offers merit and need-based scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students, open to internationals.
UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship (UK)
Offered by University College London to international students with excellent academic achievements.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (France)
Managed by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, this is awarded to top international students at French institutions.
Boston University Trustee Scholarship (USA)
Covers full undergraduate tuition and is given to students with exceptional academic and leadership records.
Clark University Global Scholars Program (USA)
For international students with high academic potential and a commitment to making a difference in their communities.
Holland Scholarship (Netherlands)
Awarded to non-EEA students applying for a bachelor’s or master’s program at participating Dutch institutions.
University of Alberta International Admission Scholarship (Canada)
Given to top international students entering their first year at the University of Alberta.
University of Bristol Think Big Scholarships (UK)
For international students with excellent academic results and a clear vision for their future.
Chancellor’s International Scholarships (UK)
Offered by the University of Warwick to high-achieving international postgraduate students.
Tips to Boost Your Chances
When applying for merit-based scholarships, a strong application can make all the difference. Here are a few quick tips:
- Focus on your academic achievements, but also highlight leadership roles and extracurricular involvement
- Write a compelling personal statement that shows who you are beyond your grades
- Ask for recommendation letters from people who know your work and can speak well about your strengths
- Apply early and to as many scholarships as possible
Final Thoughts
Merit-based scholarships are not just about having the highest GPA. They’re about standing out—showing passion, leadership, and the willingness to make an impact. With this list of 25+ opportunities, you can start your journey toward a fully funded education.