Environmental Science is no longer just an academic subject — it is a global responsibility. From climate change and water scarcity to biodiversity loss and sustainable development, environmental scientists are at the front line of protecting our planet.
Yet, studying environmental science often involves field research, laboratory work, policy analysis, and international collaboration, which can be financially challenging. To support passionate students, many governments and international organizations offer fully funded scholarships that remove financial barriers entirely.
This guide highlights top fully funded scholarships for Environmental Science students, all different from the scholarships listed in the astronomy and geology articles, and explained in a simple, human way.
1. UN University (UNU) Environmental Scholarships – Japan & Europe
The United Nations University (UNU) offers fully funded programs focused on environmental sustainability, climate change, and natural resource management. These programs are ideal for students who want to work with global environmental policy and research.
What it covers
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Full tuition fees
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Monthly living allowance
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Health insurance
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Research support
Study level
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Master’s
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PhD
👉 Apply here:
https://unu.edu/education
2. Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) – Netherlands
The Orange Knowledge Programme supports professionals from developing countries to study environmental science, climate adaptation, water management, and sustainability in the Netherlands.
This scholarship focuses on practical impact, not just theory.
What it covers
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Tuition fees
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Living expenses
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Visa and travel support
Study level
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Short courses
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Master’s
👉 Apply here:
https://www.studyinholland.nl/finances/orange-knowledge-programme
3. Global Environment Facility (GEF) Fellowship Program
The GEF Fellowship supports students working in environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate policy. It is ideal for students aiming to work with international environmental organizations.
What it covers
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Tuition support
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Research funding
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Living allowance
Study level
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Master’s
-
PhD
👉 Apply here:
https://www.thegef.org/
4. Australia Awards Scholarships – Environmental & Climate Studies
The Australia Awards program funds students from developing countries to study environmental science, climate resilience, and sustainable development at Australian universities.
What it covers
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Full tuition fees
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Monthly living allowance
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Airfare
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Health insurance
Study level
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Bachelor’s
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Master’s
👉 Apply here:
https://www.australiaawards.gov.au/
5. WWF Conservation & Environmental Leadership Scholarships
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) offers funding opportunities for students pursuing environmental conservation, climate action, and biodiversity studies.
These scholarships focus on real-world environmental impact.
What it covers
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Tuition support
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Fieldwork funding
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Research grants
Study level
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Postgraduate
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Research
👉 Apply here:
https://www.worldwildlife.org/
6. Korea Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) – Environmental Studies
South Korea offers fully funded scholarships for students studying environmental science, green technology, climate policy, and sustainability at Korean universities.
What it covers
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Full tuition
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Monthly stipend
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Settlement allowance
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Medical insurance
Study level
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Undergraduate
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Master’s
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PhD
👉 Apply here:
https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/
7. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme
This program supports outstanding students from developing countries studying environmental science, sustainable development, and natural resource management.
The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit and financial need.
What it covers
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Tuition fees (part grant, part loan)
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Living expenses
Study level
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Master’s
👉 Apply here:
https://www.akdn.org/our-agencies/aga-khan-foundation/international-scholarship-programme
8. DAAD Development-Related Environmental Programs – Germany
Germany offers specialized DAAD scholarships for environmental management, renewable energy, and sustainability science.
These programs combine academic knowledge with practical environmental solutions.
What it covers
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Tuition fees
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Monthly stipend
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Health insurance
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Travel allowance
Study level
-
Master’s
👉 Apply here:
https://www.daad.de/en/
9. British Council GREAT Scholarships – Environmental Fields
The GREAT Scholarship supports international students pursuing environmental science, climate studies, and sustainability-related degrees in the UK.
What it covers
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Partial to full tuition funding
Study level
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Master’s
👉 Apply here:
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships/great-scholarships
10. World Bank Robert S. McNamara Fellowships – Environment & Development
This fellowship supports young professionals and students working on environmental development, climate policy, and sustainable growth.
It is ideal for students interested in policy-driven environmental work.
What it covers
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Research stipend
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Living allowance
Study level
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Research
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Early career professionals
👉 Apply here:
https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Environmental Science a good career?
Yes. Careers include environmental consulting, climate policy, sustainability management, NGOs, research institutions, and international organizations.
Do I need a science background?
Most programs prefer backgrounds in science, geography, biology, or environmental studies, but some accept social science backgrounds.
Can I work while studying?
Some scholarships allow part-time work, but most provide enough funding to focus fully on studies.
Are these scholarships competitive?
Yes, but strong motivation, clear goals, and environmental passion significantly improve your chances.
🌍 Final Thoughts
Environmental Science is a mission, not just a degree. These fully funded scholarships exist to empower students who want to protect ecosystems, fight climate change, and build a sustainable future.
If you are committed, prepared, and passionate, the planet needs you 🌱