For many international students, the opportunity to study abroad is a life-changing one. It offers access to world-class education, career opportunities, and cultural experiences. But for students with spouses and children, studying abroad can also be a complex decision. Leaving loved ones behind for years isn’t ideal—and, for some, not even an option. Fortunately, there are scholarships that allow international students to bring their families with them during their studies. These family-friendly scholarships are designed to support not just individual academic growth, but also family well-being and stability.
In this article, we explore scholarships in 2025 that offer not only full or partial financial support for study abroad but also permit family accompaniment, either by offering dependent visas or by providing additional allowances for spouses and children. We also discuss key requirements, application tips, and the benefits of choosing a family-inclusive scholarship program.
Why Family-Inclusive Scholarships Matter
International students with family responsibilities often face challenges such as:
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Emotional stress of separation
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Financial hardship from maintaining two households
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Interrupted parenting or caregiving roles
By allowing students to bring their spouses and children, family-friendly scholarships offer:
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Emotional support and stability
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Shared cultural experiences
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Improved mental well-being and academic performance
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Opportunities for family integration in a new society
Governments, universities, and organizations now recognize that supporting students also means supporting their families.
Top Scholarships That Let You Bring Your Family
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
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Host Country: United States
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Level: Master’s, PhD
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Coverage: Tuition, living stipend, health insurance, airfare
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Family Support: Dependents (spouse and children) can apply for J-2 visas and may be eligible to work or study
The Fulbright Program is one of the world’s most prestigious scholarships. While it doesn't directly pay for dependent expenses, it permits scholars to bring their immediate family. Some universities even provide additional support to Fulbright families, including housing recommendations and daycare options.
2. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
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Host Country: United Kingdom
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Level: Master’s (One-Year Programs)
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Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, travel, visa fees
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Family Support: Dependents are allowed under the UK Student Dependant Visa policy
Though the Chevening Scholarship doesn’t cover dependent costs, the UK Home Office allows international students studying full-time postgraduate courses to bring family members. Students must show additional proof of funds to support their dependents, but the pathway is open.
3. Australia Awards Scholarships
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Host Country: Australia
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Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD
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Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, return airfare, health insurance
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Family Support: Dependents can be included under the Subclass 500 Student Visa, with work rights for spouses
Australia Awards is a government-funded program supporting students from developing countries. Scholars can bring dependents after arrival, and spouses are allowed to work unlimited hours (if the student is studying a master’s or doctoral program). Some universities offer family accommodation on campus.
4. New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships
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Host Country: New Zealand
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Level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
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Coverage: Tuition, stipend, travel, health insurance
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Family Support: Dependents are eligible for visas; spouses can work full-time
Formerly known as New Zealand Development Scholarships, Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships are available to citizens from selected countries. Family accompaniment is supported, though scholars must plan carefully to show financial ability for dependents.
5. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
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Host Country: Sweden
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Level: Master’s
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Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, travel grant, insurance
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Family Support: Spouses and children can accompany students under Sweden’s family migration system
Though the SISGP does not provide extra funding for dependents, Sweden’s generous immigration policy allows family members to join. Spouses can work, and children can attend public schools for free.
6. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EU Countries)
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Host Region: Europe
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Level: Master’s (Joint Programs Across Multiple Countries)
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Coverage: Tuition, monthly allowance, travel, insurance
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Family Support: Dependents are permitted under most European national visa policies (varies by country)
Erasmus Mundus is ideal for students who want a multicultural education experience. While the scholarship doesn’t directly fund dependents, many host countries—such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands—allow family reunification for master's or PhD students.
7. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK and other Commonwealth Nations)
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Host Countries: UK, Canada, Australia, etc.
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Level: Master’s and PhD
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Coverage: Tuition, living allowance, travel
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Family Support: Dependent visas available depending on host country
Offered to students from developing Commonwealth countries, this scholarship supports postgraduate studies. Family visas are subject to local immigration laws, but many recipients bring their spouses and children by showing sufficient financial means.
Tips for Applying to Family-Friendly Scholarships
1. Read the Fine Print
Not all scholarships explicitly mention dependent policies in their official guidelines. Always review:
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Immigration policies of the host country
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University international student services
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Scholarship FAQs or contact points
2. Calculate the True Cost
Even with a full scholarship, bringing family means extra expenses. Budget for:
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Rent (larger housing)
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Childcare or school fees
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Medical insurance
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Daily living costs
Many visa applications for dependents require proof of sufficient funds beyond your scholarship.
3. Prepare Supporting Documents
For dependent visa applications, prepare:
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Marriage and birth certificates (translated and certified)
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Proof of relationship
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Financial documentation
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Accommodation confirmation (if applicable)
4. Communicate Early with Your Sponsor or University
If you're planning to bring your family, inform your scholarship sponsor or university’s international office early. They can help with paperwork, housing options, and visa information.
Advantages of Studying Abroad with Your Family
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Improved Academic Focus: Less emotional stress from being separated from loved ones
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Family Stability: Your spouse and children also benefit from better services, education, and quality of life
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Cultural Immersion: The entire family experiences life in a new country, promoting growth and adaptation
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Career Opportunities for Spouse: In many countries, spouses can work and gain international experience