A Guide to Top Tourism and Hospitality Scholarships in Europe

Pursuing a degree in tourism and hospitality in Europe can open doors to a global career in one of the world’s most dynamic industries. If you’re looking for financial support to make this dream a reality, you’ve come to the right place. This guide provides key insights into the scholarships available for aspiring students.

Why Europe is a Premier Destination for Hospitality Studies

Europe is not just a top travel destination; it’s also home to some of the world’s most prestigious and historic hospitality management schools. Countries like Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Spain have a long-standing tradition of excellence in hotel and tourism education. Studying here provides a unique opportunity to learn from industry leaders, gain hands-on experience in a thriving market, and build an international network.

The continent’s diverse cultures, languages, and culinary scenes provide a living classroom for any student in the field. From luxury Alpine resorts to bustling Mediterranean tourism hubs, the practical learning opportunities are endless. Many universities also have strong partnerships with major hotel chains and travel companies, leading to excellent internship and job prospects after graduation.

Types of Scholarships You Can Find

Financial aid for tourism and hospitality studies in Europe generally falls into three main categories. Understanding these types can help you focus your search and find the best opportunities for your situation.

  • University-Specific Scholarships: These are the most common type of financial aid. Individual universities offer scholarships directly to their admitted students based on various criteria. They are often designed to attract top talent from around the world.
  • Government-Funded Scholarships: Many European governments offer scholarships to international students to promote cultural exchange and strengthen diplomatic ties. These are often highly competitive but can be very generous, sometimes covering full tuition and living expenses. The Erasmus+ program is a well-known example funded by the European Union.
  • Private and Corporate Scholarships: Foundations, organizations, and major hospitality corporations sometimes fund scholarships for students pursuing a career in the industry. These can be linked to specific research areas or designed to nurture future leaders for their companies.

Leading European Universities and Their Scholarship Opportunities

To give you a concrete starting point, here are some renowned European institutions known for their hospitality programs and the types of financial aid they may offer. Note: Scholarship availability and criteria change annually, so you must always check the official university website for the most current information.

EHL Hospitality Business School (Switzerland)**

Often ranked as the number one hospitality school in the world, EHL in Lausanne offers a range of financial aid options. Their scholarship program is primarily need-based, designed to support talented students who would otherwise be unable to afford the tuition.

  • What they offer: They provide grants and scholarships that can cover a portion of the tuition fees. The amount awarded depends on a thorough assessment of the applicant’s and their family’s financial situation.
  • How to apply: Students must first be accepted into a program at EHL. After acceptance, they can submit a separate, detailed financial aid application.

Hotelschool The Hague (Netherlands)**

With campuses in The Hague and Amsterdam, this top-ranked university is known for its practical, business-oriented approach. They are committed to attracting a diverse student body and offer scholarships to help achieve this.

  • What they offer: They typically offer several scholarships for non-EU students, such as the Holland Scholarship, which is financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science. This scholarship usually consists of a one-time payment in the first year of studies.
  • How to apply: You generally apply for the scholarship at the same time you apply for admission to their Bachelor of Business Administration in Hotel Management program.

Les Roches Global Hospitality Education (Switzerland & Spain)**

Les Roches has campuses in both Switzerland and Spain (Marbella), offering a global perspective on hospitality. They provide a variety of scholarships based on merit, financial need, and geographic origin.

  • What they offer: Their scholarship portfolio often includes merit-based awards for students with strong academic records, leadership potential, or specific talents. They may also have specific scholarships for different nationalities to promote diversity on campus.
  • How to apply: Scholarship applications are usually part of the main admission process. You will need to indicate your interest and submit required documents like essays or recommendation letters.

EU Business School (Spain, Switzerland, Germany)

With a major campus in the vibrant city of Barcelona, a key tourism hub, EU Business School offers various business programs with a hospitality focus.

  • What they offer: They typically provide merit-based scholarships for students who demonstrate academic excellence. These scholarships are usually awarded as a reduction in tuition fees for a specific term or the entire program.
  • How to apply: Applicants are encouraged to inquire about scholarship opportunities with the admissions department during their application process.

How to Successfully Apply for a Scholarship

Finding and winning a scholarship requires organization and effort. Follow these steps to maximize your chances of success.

  1. Start Your Research Early: Begin looking for scholarships at least 12-18 months before you plan to start your studies. This gives you plenty of time to find opportunities and prepare strong applications.
  2. Check University Websites First: Your primary source of information should be the official websites of the universities you are interested in. Look for sections titled “Admissions,” “Financial Aid,” or “Scholarships.”
  3. Prepare Your Documents: Most applications will require similar documents. Get them ready in advance:
    • Academic Transcripts: Official records of your grades.
    • Proof of Language Proficiency: Standardized test scores like IELTS or TOEFL.
    • Letter of Motivation: A compelling essay explaining why you deserve the scholarship and how the program will help you achieve your career goals.
    • Letters of Recommendation: Ask teachers or employers who know you well to write strong, supportive letters.
  4. Tailor Each Application: Avoid sending a generic application everywhere. Read the scholarship requirements carefully and customize your letter of motivation to match the specific values and goals of the institution or foundation offering the aid.
  5. Mind the Deadlines: Scholarship deadlines are strict and non-negotiable. Create a calendar with all relevant dates to ensure you submit everything on time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a scholarship that covers 100% of the costs? Full-ride scholarships are very rare and extremely competitive. Most scholarships cover a portion of the tuition fees. It is wise to plan on funding part of your education through other means, such as personal savings or student loans.

Do I need to speak the local language to study hospitality in Europe? Many of the top tourism and hospitality programs in Europe are taught entirely in English. However, learning the local language is a huge advantage for internships, daily life, and future job prospects in that country. Some universities offer language courses alongside your main degree program.

Are scholarships available for both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees? Yes, scholarships are generally available for all levels of study, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and sometimes even MBA programs with a hospitality specialization. The number and type of scholarships may vary by university and degree level.