Top 10 Online Master’s Scholarships for International Students (2025 Edition)

Introduction

The Growing Popularity of Online Master’s Programs

In recent years, online master’s programs have surged in popularity, offering flexibility and accessibility to students worldwide. With advancements in technology and the increasing demand for remote learning options, many reputable institutions now offer comprehensive online master’s degrees that rival their on-campus counterparts.

Advantages of Pursuing an Online Master’s Degree

Opting for an online master’s degree comes with numerous benefits:

Flexibility: Study at your own pace and schedule, making it easier to balance work, family, and education.
Accessibility: Access courses from anywhere in the world, eliminating the need for relocation.
Cost-Effective: Often more affordable than traditional programs, with savings on accommodation and commuting.
Diverse Opportunities: Engage with a global community of learners and professionals.

1. Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships

Overview and Objectives

The Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships aim to provide opportunities for individuals from developing Commonwealth countries to pursue part-time master’s degrees via distance learning. This initiative focuses on enhancing skills and knowledge to contribute to the development of their home countries.

Eligibility Criteria

Must be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country.
Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) standard, or a lower qualification with relevant experience.
Demonstrate the potential to contribute to the development of their home country.

Benefits and Coverage

Full tuition fees for the duration of the program.
Access to high-quality UK education without the need to relocate.
Opportunities to connect with a network of professionals and alumni.

2. Edinburgh Global Online Learning Masters Scholarships

Program Highlights

The University of Edinburgh offers scholarships for part-time distance learning master’s programs, aiming to support students from low and middle-income countries.

Who Can Apply?

Nationals and residents of eligible countries.
Applicants who have received an offer to study an eligible online master’s program at the University of Edinburgh.

Scholarship Inclusions

Full tuition fees for the duration of the program.
Access to the university’s extensive online resources and support services.

3. Edinburgh Surgery Online Global Scholarships

Specialization Areas

These scholarships are tailored for online master’s programs in surgical sciences, including:

ChM General Surgery
ChM Urology
ChM Trauma & Orthopaedics
ChM Vascular & Endovascular

Applicant Requirements

Nationals of low and middle-income countries.
Must have an unconditional offer to study one of the eligible programs.

Financial Support Details

Full tuition fees for the duration of the program.
Support for internet access costs to facilitate online learning.

4. Mastercard Foundation Online Learning Scholarships

Initiative Background

In response to the educational disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mastercard Foundation launched the e-Learning Initiative to support online education for African students.

Target Demographic

African students residing in Africa.
Individuals committed to contributing to the development of their home countries.

Scholarship Benefits

Full coverage of tuition fees.
Provision of a laptop and internet access.
Support for living expenses and study materials.

5. LSHTM First Generation Scholarship (Distance Learning)

Purpose and Goals

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) offers scholarships to support first-generation university students pursuing distance learning master’s programs.

Eligibility Requirements

Must hold an offer of admission for an eligible distance learning MSc program.
First in their family to enter higher education.

What the Scholarship Covers

Full tuition fees for the duration of the program.
Access to LSHTM’s extensive online learning resources.

6. American University of Washington Scholarships

Scholarship Overview

The American University of Washington offers online scholarships to students with excellent academic credentials and leadership qualities. It’s designed for students enrolled in their online master’s degree programs, providing an opportunity to gain a world-class education remotely.

Application Criteria

Must have strong academic performance (usually a GPA of 3.0 and above).
Applicants must demonstrate exceptional leadership, involvement in community or extracurricular activities, and the ability to contribute to the AU community.
Must have received admission into one of the online programs.

Financial Assistance Provided

Up to $14,000 in scholarships for qualified applicants.
Can be applied to six designated online master's programs.
Opportunity to engage with a diverse academic community and network virtually.

7. University of Manchester Equity and Merit Scholarships

Program Description

The University of Manchester’s Equity and Merit Scholarships aim to support academically talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa who would not otherwise be able to afford an education. The scholarships are available for both on-campus and distance learning master’s programs.

Who Is Eligible?

Must be a national of eligible African countries (Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda).
Must have a bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record.
Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development and community impact.

Scholarship Coverage

Full tuition fees for the entire program.
For on-campus scholars, the scholarship covers return international airfare, living expenses, and visa fees.
For distance learning scholars, funding covers tuition fees only, making it accessible to professionals already working in development-focused sectors.

8. University of Edinburgh Glenmore Postgraduate Scholarship

Focus Areas

The Glenmore Scholarship targets master’s students in human medical programs with a focus on public health, epidemiology, infectious diseases, and related fields. It’s designed to assist students from developing countries who wish to pursue online postgraduate education.

Applicant Qualifications

Must have been offered admission into one of the eligible online programs.
Preference is given to students from African or developing countries who demonstrate financial need and a desire to return home to contribute to national development.
Applicants should possess a first-class or upper second-class honors degree or its equivalent.

Financial Support Offered

Full tuition fee coverage for the duration of the program.
Access to the university’s online learning platform and digital libraries.
Opportunities to network with other international scholars in the program.

9. Prowess University Scholarship

Program Overview

Prowess University, an accredited online university, offers a flexible and affordable education model with scholarship options for students across the globe. Scholarships are available for online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.

Eligibility Criteria

Must be a national of an eligible country (open to Africans and selected countries in Asia and Latin America).
Must have already received admission into a Prowess University program.
Applicants must show proof of financial need or community involvement.

Scholarship Benefits

Full tuition coverage for three academic years.
Personalized learning plans and academic mentorship.
Recognition from an internationally accredited institution.

10. UNICAF Scholarships

Partner Institutions

UNICAF collaborates with top-tier universities such as:

University of Suffolk (UK)
Liverpool John Moores University (UK)
University of East London (UK)
University of California (US)

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must be from eligible countries, mostly in Africa and parts of Asia.
Proof of academic qualifications and financial need is required.
Applicants must meet the minimum entry requirements of their chosen online master’s program.

Financial Assistance Details

Up to 75% tuition reduction via scholarship.
Flexible payment plans for any remaining balance.
Study at your own pace, with access to an international academic environment and regular virtual interactions.

Conclusion

Pursuing a master’s degree doesn’t have to mean putting your life on hold. Thanks to online master’s scholarships, students from all walks of life can now access quality education from some of the world’s best universities—right from their homes. These scholarships not only ease the financial burden but also open doors to global networking, mentorship, and career growth.

Whether you're a working professional, a caregiver, or someone seeking flexible learning options, these scholarship opportunities can make your academic dream a reality. Start applying today and take the next step in your education journey!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the benefits of online master’s scholarships?
They offer flexibility, eliminate relocation costs, and allow you to gain a globally recognized degree while working or managing personal responsibilities.

2. How do I apply for these scholarships?
Each scholarship has its own application process. Typically, it includes filling out an online application, submitting transcripts, a personal statement, and sometimes proof of admission.

3. Are online degrees recognized internationally?
Yes. Most online programs offered by reputable universities are fully accredited and recognized globally, especially if awarded by top institutions like those in the UK, US, or Europe.

4. Can I work while pursuing an online master’s degree?
Absolutely! Online master’s programs are designed for working professionals and those with time constraints.

5. What are the common eligibility criteria for these scholarships?
Most scholarships require applicants to: