Scholarships › NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students › South African Students

NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students for South African Students 2027

South African students: NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students covers Full Tuition + €800-1,000/month. Deadline Jun 2027. Some visa scrutiny. Full eligibility guide + essay tips: free on StudiePoint AI.

FundingFull Tuition + €800-1,000/month
DeadlineJune 30, 2027
Minimum GPA3.0/4.0
LocationLisbon, Portugal, Portugal
Fields of StudyPublic Health, Economics, Business, Law
Visa for South Africanmoderate scrutiny required

Can South African Students Apply for the NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students?

Yes. South African postgraduate students are eligible to apply for the NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students at Lisbon, Portugal, Portugal. The programme accepts applications for Masters study. The application deadline is June 30, 2027. South African applicants should allow extra time for visa preparation when applying to Portugal. Fields open to applicants include: Public Health, Economics, Business, Law.

What Does the NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students Cover?

The NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students covers Full tuition waiver (student funds living costs ~€800-1,000/month in Lisbon). It is offered at Lisbon, Portugal in Portugal. The minimum GPA requirement is 3.0/4.0. This scholarship is designed for postgraduate students pursuing Masters qualifications. Students selected for this award receive funding that removes the financial barrier to studying abroad, allowing recipients to focus entirely on their academic and research work.

Visa Requirements for South African Students Travelling to Portugal

South African students applying to Portugal for postgraduate study will need to demonstrate strong documentation to satisfy the student visa requirements. The Portugal consulate applies moderate scrutiny to applications from South African nationals. Prepare the following carefully:

Allow 6–10 weeks for visa processing. Some Portugal consulates request an in-person interview for South African applicants. Book your consulate appointment immediately after receiving your scholarship offer letter.

Converting Your South African Grades for This Application

South African universities grade by percentage. Your official academic transcript will show a percentage average. Divide by 25 to get an approximate 4.0 GPA equivalent: 75% equals approximately 3.0/4.0, and 85% equals approximately 3.4/4.0. Use the StudiePoint converter for the precise figure. The minimum GPA required for the NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students is 3.0/4.0. Check your converted GPA before submitting to confirm you meet the eligibility threshold. Use the StudiePoint GPA converter →

Application Essay Requirements

The NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students requires a statement of purpose or motivation letter as part of the application. Your essay must be tailored specifically to this scholarship: generic essays significantly reduce your chances of selection. Address the scholarship committee's stated values, connect your academic background to the programme, and explain why Portugal is the right destination for your postgraduate studies. StudiePoint AI's essay coach captures your voice and structures your essay to match what this specific committee looks for. Write your essay free →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students fully funded?

The NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students covers Full tuition waiver (student funds living costs ~€800-1,000/month in Lisbon). This is a full-funding award: tuition fees and living costs are covered for the duration of the programme.

What is the application deadline for the NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students in 2027?

The application deadline for the NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students is June 30, 2027. Verify the exact date on the official scholarship website before submitting. Most competitive scholarships stop accepting applications at 23:59 in the host country's time zone on the deadline date. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid technical issues.

What GPA do South African students need for the NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students?

The NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students requires a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0. South African universities grade by percentage. Your official academic transcript will show a percentage average. Divide by 25 to get an approximate 4.0 GPA equivalent: 75% equals approximately 3.0/4.0, and 85% equals approximately 3.4/4.0. Use the StudiePoint converter for the precise figure.

What documents do South African students need to apply?

Typical documents required for the NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students include: certified academic transcripts from your undergraduate institution, a statement of purpose or motivation letter, at least two academic reference letters, proof of language proficiency (usually IELTS or TOEFL), a valid passport, and a completed online application form. Some scholarships also require a CV or research proposal. Check the official website for the complete and current document list.

How competitive is the NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students for South African applicants?

NOVA University Merit Scholarship for International Students is a competitive international scholarship. South African applicants who reach the final selection stage typically present a focused and well-written statement of purpose or motivation letter tailored to the programme, at least two strong academic referees, and a clear post-study plan demonstrating the impact of the degree. The StudiePoint AI essay coach helps you build an essay specifically aligned to this scholarship's selection criteria.

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