Scholarships That Do Not Require High Grades in 2027
Getting a scholarship does not always mean you must have perfect grades. If your academic results are average, you can still explore international scholarships, government-funded study programmes, university awards, and other financial aid opportunities for 2027.
Some scholarships have a clear minimum grade requirement, while others assess applicants through a broader selection process that may include academic records, motivation, interviews, entrance examinations, and other achievements. A scholarship with no published percentage requirement does not necessarily mean that grades do not matter.
In this guide, World Scholarship Finder highlights four government scholarship programmes worth exploring: Türkiye Scholarships, Romanian Government Scholarships, Russian Government Scholarships, and Chinese Government Scholarships.
We also explain their academic requirements, possible benefits, eligible study levels, and application websites so you can decide which opportunities may suit your qualifications.
Quick Overview: Scholarships for Students With Average Grades in 2027
| Scholarship | Study levels | Academic requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Türkiye Scholarships | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | Minimum grades apply |
| Romanian Government Scholarship | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | At least 7/10 under the Romanian grading system |
| Russian Government Scholarship | Bachelor’s, Master’s, specialist and postgraduate programmes, depending on the available quota | Requirements vary by programme and selection process |
| Chinese Government Scholarship | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD and other scholar programmes | Academic ability and university-specific requirements apply |
Important: The 2027 application details may not yet be available for every programme. Check the official websites regularly for the relevant intake’s deadlines, requirements, and funding terms.
1. Türkiye Scholarships 2027
Host country: Türkiye
Study levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
Funding: Comprehensive government scholarship, subject to programme terms
Türkiye Scholarships is a government-funded scholarship programme for international students who want to study at universities in Türkiye. It offers opportunities across various academic disciplines and study levels.
The programme is worth considering if you want financial support for studying abroad. However, it is important to understand that Türkiye Scholarships has minimum academic achievement requirements, so it is not a scholarship with no grade requirements.
Academic requirements
According to the official eligibility criteria, the minimum academic achievement levels are:
- Associate and bachelor’s degree applicants: at least 70%.
- Master’s and PhD applicants: at least 75%.
- Applicants to medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy: at least 90%.
Age limits also apply. Applicants generally must be under 21 for undergraduate programmes, under 30 for master’s programmes, and under 35 for PhD programmes.
These requirements mean that applicants with lower grades may not qualify for this particular scholarship. Students who meet the thresholds should also consider their motivation, academic background, and suitability for their chosen programme.
What does the scholarship cover?
Depending on the programme and official award terms, Türkiye Scholarships can provide support such as:
- University tuition fees.
- Monthly living allowance.
- University accommodation.
- Health insurance.
- Flight ticket support.
- A Turkish language course.
Language requirements can differ according to the programme and university. Do not assume that every course is available without proof of language proficiency.
How to apply
- Visit the official Türkiye Scholarships website.
- Review the eligibility criteria for your intended degree.
- Search for suitable universities and academic programmes.
- Prepare your transcripts, identity documents, motivation statement, and other requested materials.
- Submit your application through the official application system during the announced period.
Official application website: https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/
2. Romanian Government Scholarship 2027
Host country: Romania
Study levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
Funding: Tuition support and other benefits under the official scholarship rules
The Romanian Government offers scholarships through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs for eligible international students from non-EU countries. Applicants can explore undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programmes at accredited Romanian higher education institutions.
This opportunity may interest students who want to study in Europe. However, the official programme does have an academic requirement, even though it is expressed using Romania’s grading system rather than a universal percentage.
Academic requirements
The official scholarship information states that applicants must have good academic results, generally an average equivalent to at least 7 out of 10 under the Romanian grading system, or a “Good” result where applicable.
This should not automatically be interpreted as a particular percentage in every country. Students should check how their qualifications and grades will be evaluated.
The programme is generally open to eligible non-EU citizens, subject to the official exclusions and other conditions.
Available study programmes
The scholarship supports three main study cycles:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Master’s degree.
- PhD.
For bachelor’s and master’s programmes, the available scholarship courses are taught in Romanian. Students who do not speak Romanian can generally receive a preparatory language year before beginning their degree. Doctoral candidates may have options to study in another language where the doctoral school offers that arrangement.
Medicine, dental medicine, and pharmacy are excluded from this Ministry of Foreign Affairs scholarship programme.
What does the scholarship cover?
The official programme provides tuition-related support and a monthly scholarship allowance. Other benefits and conditions are governed by the current programme rules.
Do not assume that international airfare or all living expenses are covered. Applicants should read the official benefits information carefully before making financial plans.
How to apply
- Visit the official Study in Romania scholarship portal.
- Review the eligibility conditions for the relevant academic year.
- Prepare your educational certificates, transcripts, passport, CV, and other required documents.
- Follow the document authentication and translation instructions.
- Complete the online application before the published deadline.
Official application portal: https://scholarships.studyinromania.gov.ro/
Note for 2027 applicants: The published 2026–2027 application cycle had a deadline of 31 March 2026. Check the official portal for the next cycle’s announcement rather than relying on an old deadline.
3. Russian Government Scholarship 2027
Host country: Russia
Study levels: Vary according to the available study quota and programme
Funding: Tuition-free places through the government quota; additional support depends on the applicable terms
Russia offers international students opportunities to study at participating universities through government-funded admission quotas. Applicants can explore different universities and academic subjects using the official Education in Russia portal.
This route may be worth investigating if your grades are not among the highest. However, it would be inaccurate to say that every applicant only needs a passing grade or that there is no academic assessment. Selection methods and programme requirements can differ.
Academic requirements
There is no single universal percentage that can safely be applied to every Russian government quota programme.
Depending on the country, institution, and intended course, selection may involve reviewing educational certificates, academic records, entrance tests, interviews, portfolios, or other achievements.
Applicants should therefore:
- Hold the required previous qualification for their intended study level.
- Review the admission requirements for the selected programme.
- Check whether entrance examinations or additional selection stages apply.
- Submit the requested academic documents and certified translations where required.
A lower grade average does not guarantee acceptance, and applicants should not assume that every university or course follows the same selection criteria.
What does the scholarship cover?
The government quota can provide a tuition-free place at a participating institution. Depending on the applicable arrangements, students may also have access to university accommodation or other assistance.
However, a tuition-free place should not automatically be described as a fully funded scholarship covering every expense. Confirm whether accommodation, a monthly allowance, insurance, travel, and other costs are covered for your specific placement.
How to apply
- Open the official Education in Russia website.
- Register and explore the available programmes.
- Select a suitable course and study level.
- Upload your educational documents, passport, and other required materials.
- Follow the selection instructions for your country, including any tests or interviews.
- Monitor your application for updates.
Official application website: https://education-in-russia.com/
4. Chinese Government Scholarship 2027
Host country: China
Study levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and selected scholar programmes
Funding: Depends on the scholarship category and official award terms
The Chinese Government Scholarship, also known as the CSC Scholarship, supports international students who want to study at participating Chinese universities.
Some scholarship categories offer substantial support, including tuition fees, university accommodation or an accommodation subsidy, a monthly stipend, and medical insurance. The exact benefits depend on the scholarship type and the rules for the relevant academic year.
Although students with average grades may want to investigate this programme, it is not accurate to claim that the Chinese Government Scholarship has no academic requirements. Academic ability and the admission standards of the selected university remain important.
Academic requirements
Eligibility depends on the study level and scholarship category. Applicants generally need the appropriate previous qualification, must satisfy applicable age conditions, and must meet the admission requirements of their chosen university.
For example, the general criteria described in official scholarship guidance include:
- Undergraduate applicants: a high school qualification and the applicable age requirement.
- Master’s applicants: a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- PhD applicants: a master’s degree or equivalent.
- Language proficiency: evidence required by the selected programme and language of instruction.
Some undergraduate applications may also require a China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA) score. Language requirements can include Chinese proficiency for Chinese-taught programmes or proof of proficiency in the language used for instruction.
There is no reliable basis for promising that a passing grade alone is sufficient for every CSC scholarship.
What does the scholarship cover?
Depending on the scholarship category, the benefits may include:
- Tuition fees.
- University dormitory accommodation or an accommodation subsidy.
- A monthly stipend.
- Comprehensive medical insurance.
International airfare is not guaranteed under every Chinese Government Scholarship category. Check the official award description before assuming travel expenses are included.
How to apply
- Visit the official China Scholarship Council website.
- Read the instructions for the appropriate scholarship category.
- Identify participating universities and eligible programmes.
- Prepare your certificates, transcripts, passport, study plan or research proposal, and recommendation letters where required.
- Meet the university’s academic and language conditions.
- Submit the application using the route specified by the university, Chinese embassy, or scholarship programme.
Official scholarship website: https://www.campuschina.org/
Which Scholarship Is Best for Students With Low Grades?
The most suitable opportunity depends on your current grades, degree level, chosen subject, nationality, and other qualifications.
If your grades are below 70%, Türkiye Scholarships may not be a suitable option under its standard minimum academic criteria. The Romanian Government Scholarship also requires an academic average equivalent to at least 7/10.
For Russian and Chinese government scholarship programmes, investigate the requirements of individual programmes and universities rather than assuming that there is no minimum grade.
You should also look beyond government scholarships. University-specific awards, need-based financial aid, regional scholarships, and programmes that assess motivation, professional experience, portfolios, or research potential may provide additional options.
Tips for Winning Scholarships With Average Grades
1. Apply to programmes that match your academic record
Read the official eligibility rules before preparing a long application. This helps you avoid spending time on scholarships for which you do not meet the basic requirements.
2. Write a convincing motivation letter
Explain why you chose your subject, what you hope to learn, and how the qualification supports your future plans. Use specific examples instead of general statements.
3. Highlight achievements beyond grades
Include relevant volunteering, leadership, work experience, projects, professional certificates, community activities, or research experience where appropriate.
4. Choose your programme carefully
Some competitive programmes have stricter academic expectations than others. Look for a course that fits your previous education, experience, and career goals.
5. Prepare your documents early
Keep your transcripts, certificates, passport, references, CV, and motivation statement ready. Some programmes also require translations, authentication, language test results, or research proposals.
6. Apply through official channels
Use government scholarship portals or university websites to verify eligibility, deadlines, and benefits. Be cautious of websites that promise guaranteed admission or scholarships in exchange for a fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I get a fully funded scholarship with low grades in 2027?
It may be possible, but it depends on the scholarship and how low your grades are. Some awards have strict academic thresholds, while others consider a wider range of factors. Always check the official eligibility criteria.
2. Which scholarships do not require a high GPA?
There is no universal list because each programme defines its own academic requirements. Research government quotas, university awards, need-based assistance, and scholarships that assess applicants through more than grades alone.
3. Is Türkiye Scholarships available to students with 50%?
The standard minimum for associate and bachelor’s degree applicants is 70%, while master’s and PhD applicants generally need 75%. Medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy require 90%. A student with 50% would not meet these standard thresholds.
4. Does the Romanian Government Scholarship have no grade requirement?
No. The official programme generally requires an academic average equivalent to at least 7/10 under the Romanian grading system, or a “Good” result where applicable.
5. Can I apply for a Russian Government Scholarship with average grades?
You can investigate the available government quota programmes, but eligibility and selection depend on the programme, institution, and applicable selection process. Average grades do not guarantee eligibility or acceptance.
6. Does the Chinese Government Scholarship accept students with low grades?
There is no single answer for every scholarship category or university. Academic ability and university admission requirements matter, so check the criteria for your selected programme before applying.
7. Do these scholarships require IELTS?
Not every programme has the same language requirements. A preparatory language course may be available in some cases, but individual universities or programmes can require language certificates, alternative proof, or entrance assessments. Verify the rules for your chosen course.
8. When should I apply for scholarships for 2027?
Application periods differ. Some programmes open months before the academic year begins, and deadlines may fall during late 2026 or early 2027. Check the official websites regularly and prepare your documents early.
Final Thoughts
Students with average grades should not give up on studying abroad. The key is to identify scholarships that match your academic background and financial needs instead of applying indiscriminately.
Türkiye Scholarships and the Romanian Government Scholarship have stated minimum academic requirements. Russian and Chinese government scholarship opportunities require closer examination of the specific programme and university criteria.
Before submitting an application, confirm the latest eligibility rules, benefits, language requirements, and deadlines on the official website.
For more scholarship updates, application guidance, and study-abroad opportunities, keep visiting World Scholarship Finder.
Information in this guide is based on official scholarship information available at the time of writing. Requirements and application dates for the 2027 intake may change when new calls are announced.
