10 Hidden Scholarships for 2026 That Most Students Overlook (And How to Claim Them)
In 2026, the real secret to securing a fully-funded education is targeting rare and niche scholarships—the ones people rarely talk about.
Oluwatobi
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Scholarships for 2026
For most international students, the "big names" like Chevening or Fulbright are the first stop. However, because everyone knows them, the competition is fierce. In 2026, the real secret to securing a fully-funded education is targeting rare and niche scholarships—the ones people rarely talk about.
In this guide, we reveal 10 incredible opportunities you probably haven't heard of. Plus, we’ll show you the "cheat code" to matching with thousands of these hidden gems automatically.
The "Secret" Top 10 Scholarship List
1. The SI Global Professionals Scholarship (Sweden)
Sweden is often overlooked for the UK or US, but the Swedish Institute offers a fully-funded package for masters in Sweden. It covers tuition, living expenses, and even travel.
Why it's a hidden gem: Most students don't realize Sweden has world-class English-taught programs with zero tuition for scholarship holders.
2. The Duck Brand "Stuck at Prom" Scholarship
If you are creative, this is for you. This scholarship awards students for creating prom outfits out of duct tape.
The Catch: It sounds weird, but it's a legitimate way to fund your studies in North America if you have an artistic streak.
3. Deakin University RTP Scholarship (Australia)
Australia's Research Training Program (RTP) is a powerhouse for postgraduate students. It provides a generous living stipend and tuition offset.
4. Ocean Awareness Art Contest
Open to students aged 11–18, this contest offers up to $1,000 for creative works (visual art, poetry, or film) that highlight environmental issues. It’s a great way to build your "scholarship resume."
5. Mohamed Magdi Taha Memorial Scholarship
A niche award specifically for Black/African undergraduate students in STEM or the arts. Because it is highly specific, your chances of winning are significantly higher than general awards.
6. The "Zombie Apocalypse" Survival Scholarship
Yes, it’s real! This $2,000 award asks you to write a creative essay on your survival plan. It’s fun, low-stress, and perfect for students heading to US colleges.
7. Nottingham Trent Sub-Saharan Africa Award (UK)
While many focus on the London schools, NTU offers specific high-achiever awards of up to £4,000 for students from Nigeria, Ghana, and Vietnam.
8. The Minecraft Scholarship
Passionate about gaming? This $2,000 scholarship is awarded to students who can write about how Minecraft positively influences education and career development.
9. MTN Media Innovation Programme
For those in the media and tech space, this program is a game-changer for professional development and funding in the African tech ecosystem.
10. EADA Business School Excellence Scholarship (Spain)
Europe is a goldmine for business students. EADA offers partial funding for all nationals, and it’s much easier to obtain than Ivy League funding.
🚀 The Ultimate Scholarship "Hack": Why You Must Use ApplyBoard
Finding ten scholarships is great, but finding thousands is better. If you are serious about studying abroad in Canada, the US, the UK, or Australia, you need to stop doing the manual work and join ApplyBoard.
Why ApplyBoard is the Best Move You'll Make This Year
ApplyBoard is the world’s largest online platform for international student recruitment. They have helped over 800,000 students and have a staggering 95% acceptance rate.
Here is why I advise every student to sign up with them immediately:
AI-Powered Matching: You fill out one profile, and their AI scans over 1,750+ institutions to tell you exactly which scholarships and programs you qualify for. No more guessing.
Exclusive Financial Support: ApplyBoard partners with banks (like TD Bank) and universities to offer exclusive scholarships and GIC programs that you literally cannot find anywhere else.
End-to-End Support: From verifying your documents to helping with your visa application, they act as your personal "Study Abroad Bodyguard."
It’s 100% Free for Students: They don't charge you to use their platform. They want you to succeed.
P.S. If you want to increase your chances of admission and scholarship success by up to 95%, don't wait. Use the link below to get started and get ahead of the 2026 intake cycle.
Additional Resources for Your Journey
Pro Tip: Start your application at least 12 months in advance to ensure all your documents are "Offer Ready."
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