Interdisciplinary research is rapidly gaining traction as students and scholars across the globe recognize the value of combining insights from multiple fields to solve complex problems. Whether it’s combining computer science with biology, or sociology with environmental studies, interdisciplinary research breaks traditional academic silos, fostering innovation and broader perspectives. However, funding interdisciplinary pursuits can be challenging, especially for international students, as many scholarships focus on single disciplines. Luckily, there are scholarships designed to encourage cross-disciplinary work, and some are relatively accessible for students from diverse academic backgrounds.
In this blog, we’ll explore scholarship opportunities for interdisciplinary researchers that aren’t too prestigious or competitive, making them attainable for students with average academic records.
1. DAAD’s Helmut Schmidt Program – Germany
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is renowned for supporting international students, and one lesser-known program it offers is the Helmut Schmidt Program. While many associate DAAD with merit-based funding, this particular scholarship focuses on interdisciplinary approaches to public policy and governance. The program is designed for students with a background in law, economics, social sciences, or similar fields but encourages applicants to approach governance problems from various angles, including environmental, social, or technological perspectives.
- Scholarship Value: Up to €861 per month, health insurance, travel allowance, and a study and research allowance.
- Eligibility: Open to international students from developing countries.
- Application Tip: Although the program is public policy-centric, applicants with an interdisciplinary proposal on governance (such as technology’s role in modern governance) have a strong chance.
2. The Wenner-Gren Foundation Dissertation Fieldwork Grant – USA
While most students pursuing anthropology might already know about the Wenner-Gren Foundation, many are unaware that the foundation also encourages interdisciplinary research that involves anthropology. This is particularly advantageous for students who want to explore research at the intersection of anthropology and other fields, such as psychology, sociology, or public health.
- Scholarship Value: Up to $25,000 for dissertation fieldwork expenses.
- Eligibility: International and U.S. PhD students conducting research.
- Application Tip: While the competition can be high, framing your research with a novel interdisciplinary angle can set your proposal apart, especially if it focuses on pressing global issues like migration, health disparities, or environmental change.
3. Science Without Borders Challenge – Worldwide
The Science Without Borders Challenge, originally designed to promote marine science, is open to students who take an interdisciplinary approach to solving ocean-related problems. The scholarship is open to both undergraduate and graduate students who wish to combine oceanography with another field—such as art, economics, or engineering.
- Scholarship Value: Awards range from $500 to $5,000 depending on the level of the project.
- Eligibility: Open to students worldwide.
- Application Tip: This scholarship is ideal for students looking to creatively merge art and science or who have a cross-disciplinary interest in environmental advocacy.
4. The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) – Europe
While the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees program is well known, what is less recognized is its interdisciplinary nature. Many of the master’s programs under this initiative encourage students to combine insights from multiple fields. For example, a student might pursue a degree in Bioinformatics, which merges biology, computer science, and data science, or a program in Innovation in Environmental Management, which combines economics, technology, and policy studies.
- Scholarship Value: Full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend of €1,000, travel costs of up to €3,000, and installation costs.
- Eligibility: Open to students from non-EU countries.
- Application Tip: Students with a background in more than one field of study stand a better chance. Focus on showcasing how your interdisciplinary approach can tackle global issues in your motivation letter.
5. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) – Canada
Canada is an attractive destination for international students due to its inclusive research environment. The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are among the country’s most prestigious funding opportunities, but they are not exclusively for top-tier students. Although it is competitive, the program is accessible to those working on interdisciplinary research, especially projects that span across natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
- Scholarship Value: $50,000 per year for up to three years.
- Eligibility: Open to international and Canadian PhD students.
- Application Tip: The key to succeeding with Vanier is not just academic excellence but demonstrating leadership potential and an interdisciplinary approach to global challenges. This makes it more accessible than other merit-based scholarships.
6. Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships – Worldwide
While Rotary Foundation Global Grants are often associated with peace and conflict resolution, they also support interdisciplinary research, particularly in areas related to water sanitation, maternal health, disease prevention, and economic development. Students combining medicine with public health or engineering with environmental studies are particularly well-suited for this grant.
- Scholarship Value: Minimum funding of $30,000 for graduate-level research or studies.
- Eligibility: Open to students from any country.
- Application Tip: The Rotary’s focus on service means that your research proposal should highlight a direct societal impact, making it ideal for students with interdisciplinary projects aimed at solving community problems.
7. Schwarzman Scholars Program – China
The Schwarzman Scholars Program offers students an opportunity to study in China while focusing on a leadership-driven, interdisciplinary master’s degree in global affairs. Students from a variety of academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply, making this an excellent option for those looking to explore areas like business, international relations, and environmental studies.
- Scholarship Value: Full tuition, room and board, travel to and from Beijing, and a personal stipend.
- Eligibility: Open to students worldwide with leadership potential.
- Application Tip: Schwarzman is not only looking for academic excellence but also individuals with diverse perspectives and interests, making it accessible to students with interdisciplinary backgrounds.
For international students interested in interdisciplinary research, the path to securing scholarships is more accessible than it may seem. While many high-prestige scholarships focus on traditional disciplines, there are numerous opportunities out there that welcome innovative, cross-disciplinary approaches. Whether you’re combining art and science, health and technology, or economics and environmental studies, these scholarships provide vital funding to support your academic journey.
Remember, the key is to present your research proposal in a way that highlights the broader societal impact and the novelty of merging different fields—this is what sets interdisciplinary candidates apart in the competitive scholarship landscape.
Take advantage of these lesser-known opportunities, and don’t be discouraged by perceived barriers—many scholarships are within reach for students willing to think outside the box!
