If you are actively searching for ways to study abroad, finance your graduate degree, or start your research or leadership journey, you would have come across the terms “scholarship” and “fellowship,” and you may be wondering if they are the same thing or different opportunities.

Many students and young professionals miss out on life-changing offers simply because they do not know the difference between a fully funded scholarship and a fellowship. And they end up wasting time applying for the wrong opportunity

In this guide, we will break down the difference between scholarships vs fellowships, and how to know which one is best for your goals, especially if you are planning to study abroad in 2025/2026 or apply for research or professional programs.

What is Scholarships

This is the most popular funding opportunity. A scholarship is financial support awarded to students to help them study at a university or college, either in their home country or abroad.

It is mainly aimed at helping you cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes even travel or books, especially if it is a fully funded scholarship. This opportunity is recommended for high school graduates, undergraduates, or postgraduate students.

Scholarships are typically given based on either academic performance, financial need, talents (like sports or music), background, or a specific course or career goal. 

Types of Scholarships

These are the most common types of scholarships:

• Academic Scholarships: Awarded to students with excellent grades or test scores.
• Need-based Scholarships: For students who need financial support to continue their studies.
• Athletic Scholarships: For those with exceptional sports talent, often from universities.
• Minority Scholarships: For students from underrepresented or disadvantaged communities.
• International Scholarships: For students planning to study outside their home country.

Fellowships

Unlike scholarship, a fellowship is not just financial support; it is an opportunity. It is usually awarded to graduates, researchers, or professionals to help them advance their studies, conduct research, build skills, or solve real-world problems.

Fellowships may support a PhD, a research project, or a leadership or professional program, even if it is not tied to a university degree. Some fellowships last for just a few months, others can span over a year or more. 

Just like scholarships, there are also fully funded scholarships, and they may cover a monthly stipend or salary, travel, accommodation, and meals (especially for in-person programs), project or research funding, or access to mentorship, training, and networking.

Types of Fellowships

Here are the most common types of fellowships you will come across:

• Research Fellowships: For individuals working on specific academic or scientific research.
• Postdoctoral Fellowships: For those continuing research after earning a PhD.
• Academic Fellowships: For scholars supporting teaching or research in a university setting.
• Industry Fellowships: For professionals building skills in tech, health, development, etc.

Fellowships vs. Scholarships

Both fellowships and scholarships offer financial support, but they serve different purposes.

While scholarships are more common among students pursuing degrees, fellowships are usually designed for those diving deeper into research, leadership, or professional development.

In this section, we will highlight their key differences by purpose, eligibility, funding, duration, and career benefits, so you can figure out which one is best for your academic or career goals.

• Purpose:

Scholarships are mainly for helping students pay for their education, like tuition, books, or accommodation. They are most common at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Fellowships, on the other hand, are for those who want to advance in a particular field, lead change, make an impact, or carry out focused research or training. Think of them as professional or academic growth opportunities.

So while scholarships support learning, fellowships support growth, research, or leadership, even beyond the classroom walls

• Eligibility/Selection Criteria:

Scholarship applications are usually simpler, based on your grades, background, or financial need. Some require essays or recommendation letters, but it is the most straightforward.

While Fellowships are more competitive. You may need a strong portfolio, research proposal, or proven leadership track. This is more about your potential to create impact in your field.

So, if you just want to start your academic journey, you should consider scholarships. But if you already have a degree and want to grow professionally, go for fellowships.

• Funding Benefit:

Scholarships typically cover tuition and basic living expenses, especially if fully funded. Some also include travel and materials, depending on the program.

On the other hand, Fellowships are more comprehensive. They often come with monthly stipends, research/project funding, travel, and sometimes health insurance or conference access.

Both types boost your CV, but fellowships can also connect you with mentors and industry experts for a bigger career impact.

•  Duration and Commitment:

Scholarships often last for the entire duration of your degree, usually 3 to 5 years, depending on your program or level.

While Fellowships are usually shorter-term, from a few months to 2 years. But they come with a more hands-on commitment, like research, writing, or attending seminars.

 Scholarships are more flexible for students, while fellowships require deeper involvement during the funding period.

• Academic and Career Development

Scholarships help you study without financial stress, making it easier to focus on your academics and graduate successfully.

While Fellowships offer more than funding, they provide real-world exposure, professional experience, and strong networking opportunities.

If you want to gain expertise, connect with global leaders, and advance your career, especially in research or leadership, you should consider fellowships.

Fellowship vs Scholarship – Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between a scholarship and a fellowship depends on where you are in your journey. If you are just starting school or planning to study abroad, a fully funded scholarship is what should come to your mind.

And if you already have a degree and want to build expertise, lead a project, or contribute to real-world solutions? Then you should apply for a fellowship.

Many people go for scholarships early in life, and later apply for fellowships as they grow in their careers. So, it’s not about choosing one forever, it is about choosing the right one for now.

How to Decide:

Choose a Scholarship if:

• You need financial aid to access a university education
• You have a strong academic record or background
• You prefer a simpler funding option without research commitments

Choose a Fellowship if:

• You’re pursuing research or professional training
• You want mentorship and global networking
• You need project-based or career-focused funding