Studying abroad is one of the most transformative ways to learn a language.
It immerses you in real-life conversations, cultural nuances, and challenges that fast-track your fluency. But let’s be honest — it’s not cheap.
Flights, tuition, living expenses, visa fees… they add up. Fortunately, there’s good news: scholarships can cover a major chunk of it — or even all of it.
Whether you’re a high school student, a college grad, or a working professional dreaming of immersion, this guide breaks down 10 of the best study-abroad scholarships for language learners in 2025 — plus tips on how to prepare for them.
1. DAAD Scholarships – Germany
Best for: Undergraduate & postgraduate students learning German
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers generous scholarships for international students pursuing studies or research in Germany. Many programs are open to students from any field, but language students get a huge boost if they demonstrate German proficiency.
Covers:
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend (~€934)
- Travel allowance
- Health insurance
Pro tip: Even A2-B1 level German learners can apply for language courses sponsored by DAAD before the actual program.
🔗 daad.de
2. Erasmus+ Programme – European Union
Best for: Students at partner universities across Europe
The Erasmus+ program is one of the EU’s largest international mobility schemes. It allows students to spend a semester or year at another European institution — often with funding.
Covers:
- Travel & living costs
- Some tuition waivers
- Language support
Bonus: Many Erasmus programs include intensive language courses as part of the semester.
🔗 erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu
3. MEXT Scholarship – Japan
Best for: Learners of Japanese interested in undergrad or grad studies
Offered by the Japanese Government, the MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) scholarship is highly competitive and prestigious.
Covers:
- Full tuition
- Monthly allowance (~¥117,000)
- Airfare
- Optional Japanese language prep course (6–12 months)
Language learners get an edge, especially those who can demonstrate JLPT scores or conversational ability.
🔗 studyinjapan.go.jp
4. Confucius Institute Scholarships – China
Best for: Mandarin learners seeking immersive education
The Confucius Institute offers scholarships to international students for studying Chinese language and culture at partner universities across China.
Covers:
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- Stipend
- Medical insurance
Note: Preference is given to students with HSK (Chinese Proficiency Test) scores.
🔗 cis.chinese.cn
5. Fulbright Foreign Student Program – USA
Best for: Graduate students aiming to study or research in the U.S.
The Fulbright Program provides fully funded scholarships for international students to pursue a Master’s or PhD in the U.S., with strong emphasis on cultural exchange and academic achievement.
Covers:
- Full tuition
- Travel & living allowance
- Health insurance
Though not language-specific, Fulbright applicants interested in linguistics, literature, translation, or education often get special attention.
🔗 foreign.fulbrightonline.org
6. Sciences Po Emile Boutmy Scholarships – France
Best for: Students learning French or interested in political science, economics, or international affairs
Sciences Po, one of France’s top institutions, offers the Emile Boutmy Scholarship for non-EU international students. Language learners benefit from immersive classes in French and English.
Covers:
- Partial to full tuition
- Up to €13,000 per year
Tip: Having a basic B1-B2 level in French increases your chance of success and integration.
🔗 sciencespo.fr
7. Turkiye Burslari Scholarships – Turkey
Best for: Language students interested in Turkish and Middle Eastern studies
This government-funded scholarship allows students to study in Turkish universities with a year-long Turkish language prep program included.
Covers:
- Tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Turkish language course
- Accommodation
- Flight tickets
Bonus: Turkish is a growing language in diplomacy, journalism, and trade.
🔗 turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
8. Korean Government Scholarship Program (GKS)
Best for: Korean language learners or K-culture fans
The GKS offers full scholarships to international students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in Korea, along with one full year of Korean language training.
Covers:
- Tuition
- Monthly allowance (~KRW 900,000)
- Language training
- Round-trip airfare
- Medical insurance
Tip: Learners with TOPIK scores have an advantage but beginners are also accepted.
🔗 studyinkorea.go.kr
9. ThinkSwiss Research Scholarships – Switzerland
Best for: Research students open to multilingual environments (French, German, Italian)
This program encourages students from India, the U.S., and Canada to conduct research in Switzerland. While English is widely used, you’ll gain exposure to Swiss French or German, and many students take language classes on the side.
Covers:
- Monthly stipend of CHF 1,600
- Cultural immersion
🔗 thinkswiss.org
10. Study in Italy Scholarships – Italian Government
Best for: Students passionate about Italian language, arts, culture, or history
Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers grants for foreign students pursuing degrees or Italian language courses.
Covers:
- Tuition
- Monthly stipend (€900)
- Health insurance
Many programs include a 3–6 month Italian language course, perfect for building fluency before your academic term begins.
🔗 studyinitaly.esteri.it
Bonus: How to Prepare (Even Before You Apply)
Most of these scholarships require more than good grades. Here’s how to get a real edge:
- Learn the language
Even A1 or A2 proficiency shows initiative. Platforms like Our Polyglot offer live sessions and mock tests to help you build conversational and academic-level fluency.
- Stay consistent
Start now with 30-minute daily routines (check our blog for tips!) to build language confidence before applications open.
- Write a strong motivation letter
Explain why you want to study in that country, and how the language ties into your goals.
- Know the deadlines
Most scholarships have early deadlines (between October–March) for programs starting the following year.
Final Thoughts
Study abroad isn’t just about learning in a new place—it’s about living the language.
These 10 scholarships can turn that dream into a funded reality. Whether you’re aiming for German in Berlin, Japanese in Tokyo, or French in Paris, a path and a scholarship are waiting for you.
At Our Polyglot, we’re here to support that journey—from live speaking practice and grammar drills to confidence-building prep for interviews and language tests.
Because when opportunity knocks, it helps to answer in the right language.