When you think about studying in Europe on a tight budget, countries like Germany, Italy, or France might come to mind first. But tucked away in the heart of Central Europe is Slovakia — a safe, peaceful country that quietly offers one of the most accessible pathways for international students to get a fully funded Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with no IELTS and no application fee.
Many students, especially from South Asia and Africa, don’t know that Slovakia is part of the Schengen Zone, which means that once you secure your Slovak student visa, you’re free to travel to 26 European countries without needing another visa. This scholarship is an overlooked gem — you’re not only getting your tuition covered, you’re also getting a generous stipend to live comfortably in a country where the cost of living is far lower than in Western Europe.
What Makes the Slovakia Government Scholarship So Special?
While dozens of European scholarships exist, most cover only tuition and expect you to handle living expenses yourself. Slovakia’s offer is different. This government-backed scholarship covers everything: your living expenses, your health insurance, your study materials, and your day-to-day costs. On top of that, you don’t have to worry about taking IELTS, which is a huge relief for students who may not have time or money to prepare for expensive English proficiency exams.
If you’re planning for the 2025–2026 intake, this program is especially attractive because it welcomes students at both Bachelor’s and Master’s levels. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or ready to boost your career with a Master’s, Slovakia gives you the chance to study for free — with almost no financial risk upfront.
Who Can Apply for a Slovak Scholarship?
This scholarship is remarkably flexible when it comes to eligibility. If you have completed your high school studies (like FSc or A-levels in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, or other similar systems), you can directly apply for a Bachelor’s degree in Slovakia. If you already hold a Bachelor’s degree and are aiming for a Master’s, you’re eligible too.
One of the most remarkable aspects is that you don’t need to pass IELTS or TOEFL — an official requirement that often stops deserving students from applying to other European or UK universities. Instead, you’ll just need to demonstrate that you can study in English or Slovak, depending on your chosen program.
It’s also important to know that this scholarship is strictly for international students. If you already live in Slovakia, have Slovak citizenship or residency, or have studied at a Slovak secondary school or university, you can’t apply. But if you’re applying from outside Slovakia, like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, or dozens of other countries, you’re eligible.
Where Will You Study? Top Slovak Universities to Choose From
One of the best things about this scholarship is that it isn’t tied to a single university. Instead, you can choose from a wide range of public Slovak universities. When you create your application, you’ll find an official list of eligible institutions. From there, it’s up to you to research which university and department align with your goals.
For example, you could pursue engineering at the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava or study economics at Comenius University — one of the oldest and most respected universities in the region. The choice is yours, and that freedom is a big plus compared to programs that limit you to just one institution.
👉 Tip: Use the official Slovak Universities Portal to explore degrees, departments, and available English-taught courses before you pick your preferences.
How Much Will You Get? Financial Support Details
Unlike some “fully funded” scholarships that still sneak in hidden costs, this program truly covers your basics. Every selected student receives a €5,000 yearly grant, paid as a €500 monthly stipend. For students coming from countries like Pakistan or Bangladesh, this equals roughly PKR 200,000 or more per month — enough to cover rent, food, transport, and study needs.
Living in Slovakia is much cheaper than living in Paris, Berlin, or Amsterdam. Students report that €500 per month is more than enough to live modestly and comfortably, especially if you stay in student dormitories and manage your budget wisely.
The scholarship also covers health insurance, some academic expenses, and other small study-related costs, ensuring you’re not left paying surprise bills.
What’s the Application Deadline?
One thing you must keep in mind: the deadline is July 31, 2025. While that might sound far away, preparing a strong application takes time — especially because you’ll need to sit the SAT test if you haven’t already. Unlike IELTS, which you can skip, the SAT is mandatory for this scholarship.
What Documents Do You Need?
Getting your paperwork right is half the battle. Before you start your online form, prepare these essentials:
You’ll obviously need a valid passport, so make sure it’s up to date. Keep a few passport-size photos ready in digital form too. You’ll also need your educational transcripts — if you’re applying for a Bachelor’s, upload your high school results; for a Master’s, submit your Bachelor’s degree and transcripts.
A clear, professional CV or résumé is required too. Use a clean format like Europass to organize your academic background, work experience (if any), and extracurricular activities.
One of the most important parts is your motivation letter. This is your chance to explain why you want to study in Slovakia, how it fits your career goals, and why you deserve this scholarship. Be personal but professional, and avoid vague phrases like “it’s my childhood dream.” Focus on real skills, experiences, and goals that show you’re serious and ready.
Finally, you’ll need your SAT test score. If you haven’t taken the SAT yet, book it now — don’t wait until the last minute because your application won’t be complete without it.
How to Apply: Step by Step
Applying for this scholarship is simpler than you might think, but it’s crucial to follow each step carefully so you don’t miss out.
Start by visiting the official Slovak Government Scholarship Portal. This is where you’ll register and fill out your application. Click “Register Here”, then enter your name, email, and choose a password. Once you confirm your email, you’ll have access to your personal application dashboard.
After logging in, complete your profile fully. Enter your personal details like your full name, gender, citizenship, birth date, passport number, phone number, and your permanent address. Be sure to double-check spellings — even small errors can cause big delays later.
When your profile is ready, click “Create a New Application”. You’ll choose whether you’re applying for a Bachelor’s or Master’s, then specify whether you completed your previous degree outside Slovakia. Next, pick your preferred university, faculty, and study program. Use the official university list to make sure you choose correctly.
One important section is about your admission status. If you already have an acceptance letter from a Slovak university or a professor, you’ll upload it here. If not, don’t worry — you can continue, but make sure you apply to the university separately too if required.
Next, you’ll upload your SAT scores. If you haven’t taken the test yet, book it immediately and upload the results once you have them — this step is mandatory. Fill in the test date and your total score carefully.
You’ll also need to upload your passport copy and fill out a few declarations proving that you’re an international student with no Slovak citizenship or residence. These forms are simple: download, sign by hand, scan, and re-upload.
At the end, you’ll attach your motivation letter and your CV. Finally, review your full application for any errors, then hit Submit. You’ll get a confirmation email — keep it safe in case you need to track your application later.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once your application is submitted, you just have to wait. If your documents are strong and you meet the criteria, you’ll receive a scholarship offer by email. Along with this, you’ll get guidance for your student visa — and here’s the best part: your Slovak student visa lets you travel freely to 26 European countries within the Schengen zone.
Extra Tips to Improve Your Chances
While there’s no application fee and the requirements are simple, remember that thousands of students apply for this golden opportunity. So how do you stand out?
Your motivation letter can make or break your application. Keep it real, specific, and professional — talk about how your chosen field fits your skills and how studying in Slovakia will help your future career. Avoid general clichés and show you understand why you want this course at that university.
Also, make sure your CV is tidy and clearly organized. If you have any relevant achievements, internships, or volunteer work, include them — even small details show you’re serious and committed.
Double-check your SAT booking. Many students miss out because they forget to take the test or upload their score before the deadline.
Official Links to Bookmark
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Official Portal: Slovak Government Scholarship
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Explore Universities: Slovak Universities List
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Visa Guide: Study in Slovakia
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SAT Test Registration: College Board SAT
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All updated for 2026 intake | ScholarshipDose.com
Final Words: Should You Apply?
Slovakia might not be the first name that pops into your mind when you think of Europe — but that’s exactly why it’s a hidden gem. With a low cost of living, excellent universities, a safe environment, and Schengen freedom, it’s a clever way to earn a European degree without the stress of tuition fees, IELTS, or heavy upfront costs.
If you’re serious about your studies, start now. Gather your documents, prepare your motivation letter, book your SAT — and submit your application before July 31, 2025.
The opportunity is real — the only thing you need to do is take the first step.
Ready to pack your bags for Europe? Slovakia is waiting! 🇸🇰✨
