CFAs: Scholarships for Talented International Students

The Slovakia Scholarship Programme provides financial support to talented international students who want to pursue full-time bachelor’s, combined bachelor’s and master’s, or master’s degree programmes at public and state higher education institutions in Slovakia. Eligible students from around the world can receive €500 per month for up to three years for undergraduate programmes or two years for master’s programmes, with total support reaching up to €15,000.

The scholarship aims to attract academically excellent students, strengthen international education cooperation, and support Slovakia’s Smart Specialisation Strategy through global academic talent development.

About the Slovakia Scholarship Programme for International Students

The Slovakia Scholarship Programme supports international students who wish to study at recognised public or state higher education institutions in Slovakia.

The programme is designed to promote:

International student mobility.
Academic excellence.
Global university partnerships.
Development of skilled graduates.
Research and innovation capacity in Slovakia.

The scholarship is part of Slovakia’s Smart Specialisation Strategy (SK RIS3 2021+) and is co-financed by:

European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF).
Slovak state budget resources.

Purpose of the Scholarship

The main objective of the scholarship programme is to attract talented students from different countries and provide them with opportunities to complete higher education in Slovakia.

The programme supports:

High-achieving international students.
Internationalisation of Slovak universities.
Access to quality higher education.
Development of future professionals and researchers.

Who Can Apply?

The scholarship is open to:

International students from all countries.
Applicants seeking full-time degree studies in Slovakia.
Students applying to public or state higher education institutions.

Eligible study levels include:

Bachelor’s degree programmes.
Combined bachelor’s and master’s programmes.
Master’s degree programmes.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet academic and educational requirements based on their chosen study level.

Bachelor’s Degree Applicants

Candidates must:

Have completed secondary education outside Slovakia.
Be applying for a full-time bachelor’s or combined bachelor’s and master’s programme.

Master’s Degree Applicants

Candidates must:

Hold a bachelor’s degree obtained abroad.
Meet academic progression requirements for master’s study.

Slovak Citizens Living Abroad

Slovaks living abroad may also apply if they:

Hold Slovak citizenship.
Provide required supporting documentation and certification.

Academic Selection Criteria

Selection is based on academic merit.

Applicants must demonstrate academic performance through one of the following:

Minimum SAT score of 1100.
Average percentile of at least 63 in SCIO mathematics and general study prerequisite tests.

Successful applicants are selected based on their academic achievements and eligibility.

Scholarship Benefits and Funding Details

Selected students receive financial support to help cover study-related expenses.

Funding details include:

Monthly scholarship amount: €500.
Bachelor’s or combined bachelor’s and master’s programmes: Up to three academic years.
Master’s programmes: Up to two academic years.
Maximum total support: Up to €15,000.

The scholarship helps students manage living costs while studying in Slovakia.

Additional Benefits

Scholarship recipients may receive additional opportunities, including:

Access to public health insurance upon request.
Participation in Erasmus+ mobility programmes.
Opportunities for academic exchange and international cooperation.
Access to study programmes offered in Slovak and foreign languages.

Some programmes may provide:

Tuition-free study options.
Courses delivered in international languages.

Supported Study Opportunities in Slovakia

Students can apply for programmes offered by:

Public universities.
State higher education institutions.

Available fields may vary depending on university offerings and may include:

Science and technology.
Engineering.
Business and economics.
Social sciences.
Humanities.
Other academic disciplines.

How to Apply for the Scholarship

Step 1: Select a Study Programme

Applicants should:

Identify a suitable bachelor’s or master’s programme.
Confirm language requirements.
Check admission requirements of the chosen university.

Step 2: Prepare Academic Documents

Applicants should prepare:

Educational certificates.
Academic transcripts.
Proof of eligibility.
SAT or SCIO test results.
Required identification documents.

Step 3: Submit Scholarship Application

Applicants must submit their scholarship application according to the official programme requirements and deadlines.

Step 4: University Admission Process

Students must also complete the admission process of their selected Slovak higher education institution.

Scholarship approval and university admission are separate processes.

Why Study in Slovakia?

Studying in Slovakia offers international students opportunities to:

Experience European higher education.
Access internationally recognised universities.
Participate in academic mobility programmes.
Build international professional networks.
Study in a culturally rich European environment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

Submitting incomplete applications.
Missing university admission requirements.
Failing to provide academic proof.
Ignoring language requirements.
Applying without valid SAT or SCIO results where required.

Tips for a stronger application:

Prepare documents early.
Verify eligibility before applying.
Highlight academic achievements.
Select programmes matching your career goals.
Carefully follow university and scholarship instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can apply for the Slovakia Scholarship Programme?
Students from all countries who wish to study full-time bachelor’s, combined bachelor’s and master’s, or master’s programmes at Slovak public or state universities can apply.

How much financial support does the scholarship provide?
The scholarship provides €500 per month, with total support of up to €15,000.

How long is the scholarship available?
Bachelor’s and combined programmes receive support for up to three academic years, while master’s programmes receive support for up to two academic years.

Do applicants need SAT scores?
Yes, applicants must meet the academic selection criteria, including either a minimum SAT score of 1100 or a required SCIO test percentile.

Can Slovak citizens living abroad apply?
Yes, Slovak citizens living abroad may apply if they provide the required certification.

Are courses available in English or other foreign languages?
Yes, some programmes are available in Slovak and foreign languages, depending on the institution and course.

Can scholarship recipients participate in Erasmus+?
Yes, recipients may have opportunities to participate in Erasmus+ and other academic mobility programmes.

Conclusion

The Slovakia Scholarship Programme for International Students provides an excellent opportunity for talented students worldwide to pursue higher education in Slovakia with financial support. By offering monthly scholarships, academic mobility opportunities, and access to European universities, the programme strengthens international education cooperation and supports the development of future global professionals.