One of the key difference between scholarship and fellowship is their purpose. If you're wondering what is the difference between fellowship and scholarship, scholarships are primarily intended to reduce the financial cost of education, while fellowships focus on career growth, professional recognition, and supporting research, innovation, or the creation of new knowledge.
Although both offer financial assistance that does not need to be repaid, scholarships are generally awarded based on merit, financial need, or both to help cover tuition and other educational expenses.
Fellowships, on the other hand, are prestigious merit-based awards designed for graduate students or professionals to support advanced research, specialized training, or professional development.
Difference Between Fellowship and Scholarship
The difference between scholarship and fellowship lies mainly in eligibility, funding, and focus. Scholarships help students cover education costs based on merit or need, while fellowships usually support postgraduate students, researchers, or professionals engaged in advanced study, research, or leadership development.
Understanding the difference between fellowship and scholarship helps you choose the right funding option for your study abroad goals.
When comparing scholarships and fellowships, remember that neither is universally "better." Scholarships are ideal if your primary goal is reducing education costs, while fellowships are more suitable if you want funding combined with research experience, academic training, or professional development.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when deciding between a fellowship and a scholarship. The better option depends on your academic stage, career goals, and the type of financial support you need. While scholarships mainly reduce the cost of education, fellowships often combine funding with research, teaching, or professional development opportunities.
Undergraduate Students
For undergraduate students, scholarships are usually the better option. They are widely available based on academic merit, financial need, sports, or extracurricular achievements and help cover tuition and living expenses.
Master's Students
Master's students can benefit from both options. Scholarships are ideal for taught programs, while fellowships are better suited for students pursuing research-focused or specialized master's degrees that include academic or industry projects.
PhD Students
For doctoral studies, fellowships are generally more beneficial because they often provide full tuition funding, research grants, and a monthly stipend. Many PhD fellowships also include opportunities to work with research teams or teach undergraduate courses.
Researchers
Researchers should consider fellowships, as these programs are designed to support independent research, innovation, collaboration, and international academic exchange. They often provide funding for research projects, conferences, and publications.
Working Professionals
Working professionals looking to enhance their leadership or technical expertise may find fellowships more valuable. Many professional fellowships offer short-term training, global networking opportunities, and practical experience without requiring full-time academic study.
Quick recommendation:
Choose a scholarship if your primary goal is reducing the cost of your education.
Choose a fellowship if you want financial support along with research experience, leadership development, or specialized professional training.
If eligible, consider applying for both, as some universities and organizations allow students to combine different funding opportunities.
Scholarships are offered by governments, universities, private organizations, and non-profit institutions to help students finance their education. Understanding the different types of scholarships can help you identify funding opportunities that best match your academic profile, financial situation, and study abroad goals.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students with outstanding academic performance, leadership qualities, research achievements, or extracurricular accomplishments. Universities and organizations typically consider grades, standardized test scores, awards, and overall academic excellence when selecting recipients.
Need-Based Scholarships
Need-based scholarships are designed for students who require financial assistance to pursue higher education. Applicants usually need to provide proof of family income or financial circumstances. These scholarships help make quality education more accessible, particularly for international students.
Government Scholarships
Many countries offer government-funded scholarships to attract talented international students. These scholarships often cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance. Popular examples include the Chevening Scholarship (UK), Fulbright Program (USA), DAAD Scholarship (Germany), and Australia Awards Scholarship.
University Scholarships
Universities provide institution-specific scholarships to support talented domestic and international students. These may be awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, research ability, or specific subject areas. Eligibility criteria and funding amounts vary by university.
Fully Funded Scholarships
Fully funded scholarships cover most or all education-related expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, living costs, travel expenses, and health insurance. They are highly competitive and are commonly available for master's and PhD programs at leading universities and through government-sponsored initiatives.
Fellowships are designed to support advanced study, research, professional development, or leadership training. Unlike scholarships, they often provide financial assistance alongside opportunities to gain practical experience, conduct research, or collaborate with experts in a specific field.
Research Fellowships
Research fellowships fund students or scholars working on academic or scientific research projects. They provide a stipend, research funding, and access to university facilities, making them popular among master's and PhD students.
Postdoctoral Fellowships
Postdoctoral fellowships are intended for researchers who have completed a PhD and wish to continue advanced research. These fellowships support independent research, publications, and collaborations while helping scholars build their academic careers.
Teaching Fellowships
Teaching fellowships combine financial support with teaching responsibilities. Fellows may assist faculty members, conduct tutorials, or mentor undergraduate students while gaining valuable classroom experience and academic training.
International Fellowships
International fellowships enable students, researchers, and professionals to study, conduct research, or participate in exchange programs abroad. Many include tuition support, travel expenses, accommodation, and living stipends to encourage global collaboration.
Professional Fellowships
Professional fellowships focus on developing leadership, technical, or industry-specific skills through training, mentorship, networking, and hands-on experience. They are commonly offered to early- and mid-career professionals looking to advance their careers in specialized fields.
Purpose and Target Audience of Scholarships and Fellowships
Scholarships and fellowships serve distinct purposes and are aimed at different groups. While scholarships are designed to support students’ educational expenses, fellowships focus on advancing research, professional growth, or specialized study.
Let’s explore how each of these opportunities caters to specific needs and goals.
Why Are Scholarships Awarded?
Scholarships help you cover tuition or related expenses by recognizing your academic achievements, talents, or financial need.
For example, a study abroad scholarship in 2026 could fund your tuition, allowing you to pursue a STEM degree at a top university without the financial burden.
Why Are Fellowships Awarded?
Fellowships offer funding for your advanced research, projects, or professional development, focusing on skill-building, mentorship, and networking.
For instance, a fellowship could support your research in AI, providing resources and connections to help you drive innovation in your field.
Comparing the Target Audiences of Scholarships and Fellowships
Scholarships and fellowships serve distinct purposes and target different groups at varying stages of their academic or professional journey.
This table breaks down the key differences in their target audiences, helping you determine which funding option is the best fit for your current educational or career goals.
Type
Target Audience
Scholarships
Ideal for students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degree programs
Fellowships
Designed for advanced learners, researchers, or professionals in niche areas
Funding Mechanism and Duration of Scholarships and Fellowships
Scholarships and fellowships differ in funding mechanisms and durations based on their purpose.
Scholarships usually cover a shorter period, such as a semester or degree duration, while fellowships are project-based and may last several years, depending on the work's scope.
Let’s look at their funding and timeframes.
How Are Scholarships Funded?
Scholarships are made possible by a diverse range of funding sources, including governments, universities, non-profit organizations, and private companies.
These sources reduce financial burdens for students and provide access to educational opportunities.
Here are four key sources of scholarship funding:
Government Programs: Scholarships like the Chevening Scholarship (UK) and DAAD Scholarships (Germany) are funded by governments to promote education and global talent exchange.
Non-profits and Foundations: Foundations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation fund scholarships, including the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, to promote academic excellence and diversity.
Private Companies: Major companies, including Google and Microsoft, provide scholarships to help students pursue careers in specific industries, such as tech, with programs like the Google Generation Scholarship.
Fellowships are supported by various funding bodies, each aiming to help you advance your studies, lead projects, and develop professionally. These often include stipends, research grants, travel allowances, and mentorship.
Here’s how they break down:
Research Organizations: Fellowships like Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (Europe) and NIH Fellowships (USA) fund innovative research across various scientific fields.
Universities: Fellowships such as the Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship (Germany) and Stanford University Fellowships (USA) support postdoctoral researchers and graduate students in advancing their academic pursuits.
Government Grants: Fulbright Fellowships and Commonwealth Fellowships fund international research, teaching, and professional development opportunities.
Philanthropic Foundations: Obama Foundation Fellowship and Ford Foundation Global Fellowship back global leaders focused on social impact and justice initiatives.
Top Scholarships for International Students
Several governments and universities offer prestigious scholarships to help international students pursue higher education abroad. These scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of studying by covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel, or a combination of these benefits.
Chevening Scholarship
Funded by UK Government, the Chevening Scholarship supports future global leaders pursuing a one-year master's degree at eligible UK universities.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, and other allowances.
Eligibility: Open to applicants from eligible countries with an undergraduate degree, at least two years of work experience, and leadership potential.
Commonwealth Scholarship
The Commonwealth Scholarship supports students from eligible Commonwealth countries pursuing postgraduate studies in UK.
Coverage: Tuition fees, airfare, monthly living allowance, and approved research expenses.
Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens of eligible Commonwealth countries and demonstrate strong academic merit and financial need.
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Program enables outstanding international students to pursue master's or doctoral degrees in the United States.
Coverage: Tuition fees, living stipend, health insurance, and travel expenses.
Eligibility: Varies by country, but applicants generally need an excellent academic record, leadership qualities, and English language proficiency.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship
Erasmus Mundus funds students enrolled in selected joint master's programs offered by multiple European universities.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, travel costs, installation allowance, and a monthly living stipend.
Eligibility: Open to students worldwide who meet the academic requirements of participating Erasmus Mundus programs.
DAAD Scholarship
The DAAD Scholarship supports international students pursuing postgraduate and doctoral studies in Germany.
Coverage: Monthly stipend, health insurance, travel allowance, and other study-related benefits.
Eligibility: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and meet the academic and language requirements of the chosen program.
Australia Awards Scholarship
Australia Awards Scholarships help students from eligible developing countries study at Australian universities.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, return airfare, establishment allowance, living expenses, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Eligibility: Applicants must be citizens of eligible countries and satisfy the academic and professional requirements specified by the Australian Government.
Top Fellowships for International Students
If you're wondering what is difference between scholarship and fellowship, fellowships usually go beyond financial support by offering research opportunities, leadership training, or professional development. Below are some of the most prestigious fellowships for international students based on official program information.
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship is a non-degree professional program in the United States that helps experienced professionals strengthen leadership skills through academic study and professional collaboration.
Coverage: Tuition, living stipend, airfare, health insurance, and professional development activities.
Eligibility: Mid-career professionals with leadership experience from eligible countries.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Although officially called a scholarship, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship functions similarly to a fellowship by supporting postgraduate students engaged in advanced academic study and research at the University of Cambridge.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, maintenance allowance, airfare, and additional academic funding.
Eligibility: Outstanding international applicants pursuing a master's or PhD at Cambridge.
Rhodes Scholarship
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the world's oldest international awards. While named a scholarship, it shares many fellowship characteristics by emphasizing leadership, academic excellence, and long-term professional development.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, living stipend, travel costs, and application expenses.
Eligibility: Exceptional students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community impact.
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships support international researchers undertaking advanced research and innovation projects across Europe and partner countries.
Coverage: Salary, mobility allowance, family allowance (where applicable), and research funding.
Eligibility: Researchers with a master's or PhD who meet the programme's mobility requirements.
Humboldt Research Fellowship
The Humboldt Research Fellowship enables international researchers to carry out independent research projects in Germany alongside leading academic institutions.
Coverage: Monthly fellowship stipend, travel support, language training, and research expenses.
Eligibility: Highly qualified postdoctoral and experienced researchers from around the world.
Commonwealth Professional Fellowship
The Commonwealth Professional Fellowship supports professionals from eligible Commonwealth countries to undertake short-term training and professional development in UK.
Coverage: Airfare, living allowance, approved program costs, and other eligible expenses.
Eligibility: Mid-career professionals with relevant work experience from eligible Commonwealth countries.
Application Processes for Scholarships and Fellowships
The application process for scholarships typically involves submitting academic and financial documentation.
These documents are essential for proving your qualifications and your potential as a scholar, especially when applying for study abroad scholarships in 2026.
Here’s what you need:
Academic Transcripts: These highlight your academic performance, like for the Rhodes Scholarship, where your academic record plays a crucial role in your eligibility.
Financial Statements: Required for need-based scholarships, such as the Harvard Financial Aid Initiative, to assess your financial situation.
Essays: Many scholarships ask for personal statements, like the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, to demonstrate your goals and impact.
Extracurriculars and Leadership: Activities outside the classroom, like in the Coca-Cola Scholars Program, showcase your leadership and community involvement.
For most fellowship programs, a well-crafted proposal is crucial, as it demonstrates your potential to contribute meaningfully to the field, especially in top fellowships for professionals.
Fellowship applications generally require more detailed and specialized documents such as.
Research Proposal: A detailed document outlining your objectives, like for the Marie Curie Fellowships, to show alignment with program goals.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): An updated CV showcasing academic and research achievements, such as for the Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship.
Recommendation Letters: Required for most fellowships, like the Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship, to validate your qualifications.
Work Experience: Relevant experience, such as lab work for the NIH Fellowship, is crucial to demonstrate your expertise.
Tips for Successful Applications
Whether you are applying for a scholarship or fellowship for higher education or aiming for international opportunities, these steps will help ensure that your application stands out.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your materials to match the program’s focus, like highlighting achievements for scholarships or research contributions for fellowships.
Prepare for Interviews: Research thoroughly and practice discussing your goals to make a strong impression, like when applying for the Rhodes Scholarship or Marie Curie Fellowships.
Can You Get Both a Fellowship and a Scholarship?
Yes, in some cases, you can receive both a fellowship and a scholarship. However, eligibility depends on the funding rules of the university and the organizations offering the awards. Always review the official terms before accepting multiple funding offers.
When Is It Possible?
You may combine both if they cover different expenses (e.g., a scholarship pays tuition while a fellowship provides a research or living stipend).
Funding Rules
Many funding providers allow multiple awards as long as there is no overlap in the expenses covered.
Some programs may also place a limit on the total funding you can receive.
University Policies
Universities have different rules regarding multiple funding sources.
Some allow students to hold both awards, while others may reduce one if additional funding is received.
Double Funding Restrictions
Many government-funded and fully funded programs prohibit "double funding," meaning two awards cannot cover the same expense, such as tuition or living costs. Always verify the funding conditions before accepting multiple offers.
Tip: If you're eligible for both a scholarship and a fellowship, contact the university's financial aid office or the funding provider to confirm whether the awards can be combined.
Conclusion
Understanding what is the difference between fellowship and scholarship can help you choose the right funding opportunity for your academic and career goals. While scholarships primarily support your education costs, fellowships often provide additional research, leadership, or professional development opportunities.
Knowing what is the difference between scholarship and fellowship allows you to apply strategically and maximize your chances of securing financial support for studying abroad.
1. What is the difference between fellowship and scholarship?
The main difference between fellowship and scholarship is that scholarships primarily provide financial support for education, while fellowships support advanced study, research, teaching, or professional development. Fellowships often include research responsibilities, whereas scholarships mainly help cover tuition and academic expenses.
2. What is the difference between scholarship and fellowship?
If you're wondering what is the difference between scholarship and fellowship, the answer depends on the purpose of the funding. Scholarships are awarded to help students pay for education, while fellowships usually support postgraduate students, researchers, or professionals pursuing research, leadership, or specialized training.
3. What are the 4 types of scholarship?
The four most common types of scholarships are merit-based, need-based, government-funded, and university-specific scholarships. In addition, students may also find subject-specific, sports, and fully funded scholarships depending on the university or funding organization.
4. Is a fellowship free or paid?
Most fellowships are paid opportunities that provide financial support through a monthly stipend, research grant, or living allowance. Many fellowships also cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and research costs, making them different from standard scholarships.
5. What is the difference between a scholar and a fellow?
A scholar is typically a student receiving a scholarship to support their education, while a fellow is someone selected for a fellowship to conduct research, teach, or participate in professional development. Fellows usually work on specific academic or research projects.
6. What is the difference between stipend and fellowship?
A stipend is a fixed financial allowance provided to cover living expenses during study or research. A fellowship is a broader funding program that may include a stipend along with tuition support, research grants, travel funding, and professional development opportunities.
7. Can I receive both a scholarship and a fellowship at the same time?
Yes, in some cases you can receive both if they fund different expenses. However, many universities and funding organizations have double-funding policies, so you should always check the terms before accepting multiple awards.
8. Which is better for studying abroad: a scholarship or a fellowship?
It depends on your academic level and career goals. Scholarships are ideal for undergraduate and taught master's programs, while fellowships are generally better for research-intensive master's, PhD, postdoctoral studies, and professional development opportunities.
9. What is the difference between Chevening Scholarship and Fellowship?
The difference between Chevening Scholarship and Fellowship is that the Chevening Scholarship funds a one-year master's degree in UK, while Chevening Fellowships are short-term professional development programs designed for experienced professionals and leaders rather than full academic degrees.
10. Do fellowships require research experience?
Not all fellowships require prior research experience, but many postgraduate and research fellowships expect applicants to demonstrate academic potential through dissertations, research projects, publications, or relevant professional experience.
11. Can international students apply for both scholarships and fellowships?
Yes. International students can apply for both scholarships and fellowships if they meet the eligibility criteria. Many universities, governments, and organizations offer funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing higher education or research abroad.
upGrad Abroad Editorial Team |4863 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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