Fully Funded vs Partially Funded Scholarships

Scholarships are usually described as fully funded or partially funded, but the practical difference depends on what exactly each label covers.

What “fully funded” usually means

• Full tuition fees for the programme duration
• Monthly living allowance or stipend
• Health insurance and, often, travel costs
• Sometimes a one-time settling-in grant

Even so, always read the fine print: some awards exclude dependants’ costs, books or return flights.

What partially funded covers

Typically tuition only, a percentage discount, or tuition plus a small contribution. Living costs, insurance and travel remain your responsibility — many students also plan part-time work within legal limits.

Compare the real numbers

For each award write down the total value over the whole programme, not per year. A “30% tuition scholarship” can still be excellent if living costs are realistic.

Watch hidden constraints

Some funding contracts require you to live outside work, buy specific insurance or return home after completion. Always match the award to your own plans.

Conclusion

Choose by what the award actually finances for the full programme, verified on the official source — not by the label alone.