Pursuing a Ph.D. in economics can lead to careers in academia, policy-making, and international organizations. However, the costs associated with doctoral programs can be a significant hurdle. Fortunately, numerous scholarships and funding opportunities are available for international students in 2025. These scholarships not only cover tuition but often provide stipends for living expenses, enabling scholars to focus on their research.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
Eligibility:
- Open to international students from over 160 countries.
- Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and a strong research proposal.
Key Benefits:
- Covers full tuition, travel expenses, and living costs.
- Offers opportunities for cultural exchange.
Application Tip: Craft a compelling research proposal that aligns with Fulbright’s mission to foster international collaboration.
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorates (EMJD)
Eligibility:
- Open to students worldwide applying to participating European universities.
- Focus on interdisciplinary and international research projects.
Key Benefits:
- Covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and monthly stipends.
- Opportunity to study at multiple European institutions.
Application Tip: Highlight your interest in cross-border economic research and collaboration.
3. DAAD Scholarships
Eligibility:
- Open to international students pursuing doctoral studies in Germany.
- Applicants must have an excellent academic record.
Key Benefits:
- Provides monthly stipends, travel allowances, and health insurance.
- Access to Germany’s renowned research infrastructure.
Application Tip: Tailor your application to demonstrate how your research aligns with Germany’s economic priorities.
4. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Eligibility:
- Open to international students applying to the University of Cambridge.
- Candidates must show exceptional academic merit and leadership potential.
Key Benefits:
- Covers full tuition, travel, living expenses, and research costs.
- Includes networking and professional development opportunities.
Application Tip: Emphasize your leadership experience and how your research will address global economic challenges.
5. Commonwealth Scholarships
Eligibility:
- Open to students from Commonwealth nations pursuing doctoral studies in the UK.
- Applicants must focus on areas contributing to sustainable development.
Key Benefits:
- Covers tuition, airfare, and living costs.
- Offers opportunities for research impact in home countries.
Application Tip: Show how your Ph.D. research aligns with the sustainable development goals (SDGs).
6. American Economic Association (AEA) Fellowships
Eligibility:
- Open to international students from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Must be pursuing a Ph.D. in economics at a U.S. institution.
Key Benefits:
- Offers financial support and mentorship opportunities.
- Provides access to AEA’s vast professional network.
Application Tip: Highlight your unique background and potential contributions to the field of economics.
7. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Eligibility:
- Open to international students from eligible countries pursuing Ph.D. programs in Sweden.
- Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential.
Key Benefits:
- Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
- Provides access to a global alumni network.
Application Tip: Focus on your leadership achievements and how your research will benefit your home country.
8. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
Eligibility:
- Open to international students applying for doctoral programs in Switzerland.
- Candidates must have a strong academic record and research proposal.
Key Benefits:
- Covers tuition, monthly stipends, and health insurance.
- Opportunity to collaborate with leading Swiss universities.
Application Tip: Demonstrate how your research aligns with Switzerland’s academic and economic research priorities.
9. Rhodes Scholarships
Eligibility:
- Open to students from select countries pursuing studies at the University of Oxford.
- Must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to public service.
Key Benefits:
- Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
- Access to the Rhodes Scholar alumni network.
Application Tip: Showcase your leadership roles and how your research will address pressing global economic issues.
10. Asian Development Bank–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB–JSP)
Eligibility:
- Open to students from ADB’s member countries pursuing Ph.D. studies in economics and related fields.
- Preference given to candidates focusing on development economics.
Key Benefits:
- Full funding for tuition, travel, and living expenses.
- Opportunities to network with ADB professionals.
Application Tip: Highlight your commitment to contributing to economic development in Asia.
Tips for Securing a Ph.D. Scholarship
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Research Opportunities:
- Look for scholarships that align with your research interests and career goals.
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Strong Research Proposal:
- Craft a well-defined and impactful research proposal that demonstrates originality.
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Seek Recommendations:
- Obtain strong letters of recommendation from professors or professionals familiar with your academic work.
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Highlight Achievements:
- Emphasize your academic excellence, leadership, and research potential.
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Tailor Your Application:
- Customize your essays to align with the specific goals of each scholarship program.
Ph.D. scholarships in economics for international students provide the financial support and resources needed to focus on groundbreaking research. By carefully preparing your applications and showcasing your potential, you can secure funding to achieve your academic and professional aspirations in economics.