Cambodia is a Southeast Asian country known for historical temple sites such as Angkor Wat, which is part of the Angkor UNESCO World Heritage site. Although the Khmer Rouge era deeply affected the country’s modern history, Cambodia has continued to rebuild and grow economically.
Apart from its majestic sites, Cambodia offers relatively affordable tuition compared with many popular study-abroad destinations. Fees vary by university and program, so students should check each institution’s current tuition page. For example, Paragon International University lists annual undergraduate tuition by faculty from USD 3,500 to USD 4,500, plus a USD 500 annual registration fee, while its listed master’s programs cost USD 2,500 per semester. The University of Puthisastra’s Faculty of Science and Technology lists AY 2025–2026 tuition at USD 750 for bachelor’s degrees and USD 1,990 for master’s degrees.
Because of these reasonable prices, Cambodia can be an appealing option for students who are looking for scholarship opportunities. Its universities offer the following scholarships in Cambodia for deserving applicants:
Top Scholarships in Cambodia for International Students
| Scholarship Name | Scholarship Provider | Eligible Degrees | Scholarship Value |
|---|
| Paragon.U Scholarship Exam | Paragon International University | Bachelor’s | Tuition-fee scholarships of up to 100% |
| STAR Program | Paragon International University | Master’s | 100% tuition fee scholarship plus a monthly stipend of up to USD 400 |
| University of Puthisastra Scholarship Program | University of Puthisastra | Bachelor’s; Master’s | Varies; up to 100% scholarship |
1. Paragon.U Scholarship Exam (Paragon International University)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: up to 100% of tuition fees
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s
Formerly known as Zaman University, Paragon International University was established in 2010 and was officially rebranded as Paragon International University in 2019. It is based in Phnom Penh and offers undergraduate programs in fields such as engineering, information and computer technologies, economics, administrative sciences, and mathematics, as well as postgraduate programs through its School of Graduate Studies.
The university offers tuition-fee scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students. For the Paragon.U Scholarship Exam, eligible applicants may receive tuition-fee discounts of 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100%, depending on the award category and available quota. International applicants residing in Cambodia may apply through the Scholarship Exam. These scholarships cover tuition fees only and do not cover the annual registration fee.
Interested applicants should apply through the PIU website. The general process includes filling out the scholarship application form before the deadline, paying the exam fee, checking the scholarship exam applicants’ list, taking the exam on the specified date, and attending an interview if shortlisted.
2. STAR Program (Paragon International University)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: 100% tuition fee scholarship plus a monthly stipend
- Eligible Degree/s: Master’s
On the graduate level, applicants may take advantage of Paragon International University’s STAR Student Program.
Through this program, selected students receive a 100% tuition fee scholarship and a monthly stipend while gaining teaching, research, and administrative experience. The maximum teaching or administrative workload is 30 hours per week, and the monthly stipend ranges from USD 200 to USD 400, depending on the position and the applicant’s qualifications.
Qualified applicants may apply for up to two available positions listed by the university. Master’s courses are usually conducted in the evenings or on weekends, allowing STAR students to study and conduct research during the week.
Applicants must also meet Paragon International University’s postgraduate admission requirements, which include a bachelor’s degree diploma or certificate, a statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and English proficiency through TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or Paragon.U’s English Proficiency Test.
3. Scholarship Program (University of Puthisastra)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: varies
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s; some current Faculty of Science and Technology scholarships also include master’s applicants
The University of Puthisastra, also known as UP, was founded in 2007 and was recognized by the Royal Government of Cambodia through Sub-Decree No. 174 dated November 15, 2007. It offers programs through faculties such as Pharmacy, Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing and Midwifery, Health Sciences and Biotechnology, and Science and Technology.
UP offers a scholarship program based on merit and financial need through a selective application process. The university considers academic excellence and extracurricular activities, especially community service. UP’s current admissions page describes the scholarship program as being designed for high-achieving Cambodian students, so international students should contact the university directly to confirm whether they are eligible before applying.
To apply for this Cambodia scholarship, applicants need to complete an application form with background information and essay questions. Scholarship applicants must submit required documents such as a national ID card, high school exit examination certificate, and residence book. UP’s general admissions instructions also state that foreign applicants must provide a Khmer language proficiency certificate recognized by the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport.
Applicants who pass the initial screening may be invited for an interview. Successful candidates are then notified by the university.
These financial aid opportunities are just a few university scholarships you can apply for in Cambodia. If you are planning your studies, make sure to review each scholarship’s current eligibility rules, deadlines, and coverage before applying. This can be a valuable opportunity for students aiming to build an impressive academic profile.
We hope that this article on Cambodia’s best scholarships for international students was helpful. If you’re interested in studying abroad, make sure to check out the Available Programs for International Students!
