Are you an international student aspiring to pursue higher education in the United States but worried about the high costs? The good news is that there are numerous fully funded scholarships available to help you achieve your academic dreams. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore more than 20 fully funded scholarships in the USA for international students, providing you with valuable information on eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.
Benefits of Studying in the USA
Studying in the USA offers numerous advantages, including access to world-renowned universities, cutting-edge research facilities, and a culturally diverse learning environment. However, the cost of education can be a significant barrier for international students.
20+ Fully Funded Scholarships in USA for International Students
1.Berea College Scholarship: Undergraduate degrees.
Berea College, located in Kentucky, USA, offers undergraduate scholarships for international students. This prestigious scholarship program covers 100% of tuition, room, board, and fees for the first year of enrollment for approximately 25 to 30 admitted international students each year. In subsequent years, students are expected to contribute $1,000 annually through summer jobs provided by the college. An additional $2,200 deposit is required to confirm enrollment, but financial aid is available for those who need it. Eligible applicants must meet the college’s entrance requirements, have a high school degree, demonstrate proficiency in English, and submit standardized test scores, academic transcripts, financial documents, recommendations, and personal statements by the application deadline. The scholarship is open to international students of all nationalities and covers various fields of study, including art, biology, business, computer science, and nursing. The application deadlines are typically in mid-October and mid-January.
Berea College’s mission is to provide high-quality education to high-achieving students regardless of their financial background, making it a sought-after institution for international students seeking undergraduate degrees in the United States. Be sure to check the college’s official website for detailed information and application instructions.
2.AAUW International Fellowship: Master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral studies (for women).
The AAUW (American Association of University Women) International Fellowship is a program designed to support women from around the world in pursuing graduate and postgraduate studies in the United States. Here are the key details:
Scholarship Value: The fellowship offers awards ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 annually. The scholarship covers various expenses, including tuition, living expenses, travel costs, childcare expenses, and conference travel.
Scholarship Duration: Successful recipients are supported for one academic year, typically between July of one year and June of the following year.
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3.Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program: Graduate degrees at Stanford University.
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is a prestigious international graduate scholarship program established in 2016 at Stanford University with significant funding from philanthropist Philip Knight. This program is designed to identify and train future leaders who can tackle complex global challenges.
Scholarship Value: The program offers full funding to pursue master’s, doctoral, or medical degrees at Stanford University, including financial support for academic expenses and living stipends.
4.Fulbright Foreign Student Program: Master’s or PhD degrees.
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is a prestigious scholarship program that enables graduate students, young professionals, and artists from around the world to study and conduct research in the United States:
Scholarship Value: The scholarship covers various expenses, including tuition, airfare, a living stipend, health insurance, and other related costs for the entire duration of the degree program.
Scholarship Deadline: Application deadlines vary by country, typically falling between February and October. Applicants must apply through the Fulbright Commission or the US Embassy in their home country.
Program Length: The program duration ranges from 6 months to 1 year.
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is a prestigious initiative that offers experienced professionals from various countries the opportunity to enhance their leadership skills and gain a deeper understanding of issues relevant to both their home countries and the United States. Here are some key details:
Fellowship Overview: The program awards around 200 Fellowships annually to citizens of eligible countries across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
Duration and Activities: Fellows spend approximately 10 months at a participating U.S. university. During this time, they engage in activities such as coursework, conferences, networking, and practical work experiences in fields like public health, education, law, environment, and economics.
Funding: The Fellowship provides comprehensive funding, covering tuition, English language training if necessary, a living allowance, insurance, books, a computer, domestic and international travel, and professional development activities.
Eligibility: To be eligible, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of five years of professional work experience, leadership qualities, community service experience, and proficiency in English.
Application Process: Application deadlines vary by country but typically fall between May and September each year. Interested individuals should contact their local U.S. embassy or Fulbright commission for information and internal deadlines. Nominations must be submitted to an international organization by October 1st.
Goals: The program aims to develop leaders who understand American values, establish lasting partnerships between Americans and individuals from other nations, and increase American knowledge of international issues.
Fields of Study: Fellows can study a wide range of public policy fields, including education, economics, journalism, health, law, and the environment.
6.Rotary Peace Fellowships: Master’s degrees or certificates (multiple countries).
The Rotary Peace Fellowships program offers both master’s degrees and certificates to peace and development professionals. Here are the key details:
Master’s Degrees:
Eligibility: Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, at least three years of full-time work in peace or development, and a commitment to peacebuilding. They must also demonstrate English proficiency and leadership potential. Current Rotary members or employees are not eligible.
Program Duration: Master’s degree programs last 15-24 months and include academic coursework, field experience, professional development workshops, and research presentations.
Partner Universities: Partner universities offering master’s degrees are located in the United States, Japan, England, Australia, and Sweden.
Application Deadline: The application deadline for the program varies each year, so it’s essential to check the Rotary website for the most up-to-date information.
Eligibility: Mid-career professionals with 5+ years of relevant work experience, a clear vision for advancing their peace work, and a commitment to Rotary’s mission are eligible. They must also demonstrate English proficiency and leadership skills. Current students and recent Rotary participants are ineligible.
Program Duration: The certificate program lasts 11 weeks and results in a post-graduate diploma. It includes an online course, on-site course with field studies at partner universities, a social change initiative, and a capstone seminar.
Partner Universities: Partner universities for the certificate program are located in Uganda and Thailand, focusing on Africa and Asia-Pacific regions.
Application Deadline: Like the master’s degree program, application deadlines may vary, so it’s advisable to check the Rotary website for the most current information.
7.ICSP Scholarships at the University of Oregon: Undergraduate degrees.
The International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) Scholarships at the University of Oregon provide tuition-waiver awards for undergraduate degrees. Here are the key details:
Scholarship Value: The ICSP Scholarship offers tuition-waiver awards ranging from $9,000 to $35,000 USD annually. It covers up to 15 academic credits per term. The scholarship is based on financial need, academic merit, and the ability to make presentations about the recipient’s home country to diverse audiences.
Scholarship Deadline: The application deadline for the ICSP Scholarship for the 2023-2024 academic year was January 15th, 2023. Applicants had to first apply for admission to the University of Oregon and then complete the ICSP application form available on the program’s website by February 17th, 2023, to be considered for this scholarship opportunity.
8.Global Undergraduate Exchange Program: Semester exchange studies (administered by the US Department of State).
The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD Program), administered by the U.S. Department of State, offers semester-long scholarships for exceptional undergraduate students worldwide to study at U.S. universities.
These scholarships encompass opportunities for community service, professional development, and cultural enrichment. The program is primarily managed by World Learning globally, except for Pakistan, which is overseen by IREX.
Scholarship durations cover one semester, and application deadlines vary by program and region. Eligible applicants must be over 18, citizens of participating countries, currently enrolled undergraduates with at least one semester remaining, have completed secondary education in their home country, possess strong English skills, and be ready to commence the exchange in the U.S. in August 2023 or January 2024. They should also qualify for a J-1 student visa, be medically cleared, and commit to returning home after the program.
9.American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: Undergraduate degrees.
The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (EGLS) is a prestigious undergraduate scholarship program offered by American University in Washington, DC. It provides full financial support for international students pursuing their first undergraduate degree. Here are the key details:
Scholarship Value: The EGLS covers full tuition, fees, room, and board for one international student each year. Additionally, it includes a $2,000 book allowance and health insurance. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study, ensuring comprehensive financial support.
Application Deadline: The priority deadline for completing all required application materials, including proof of at least $4,000 in funding, is December 15, 2023.
NASA offers various educational opportunities, including scholarships, internships, and fellowships.
NASA’s Internship Program: This program provides paid educational experiences for undergraduate and graduate students. It allows students to work alongside NASA scientists, researchers, engineers, and support teams. High school students can also participate in summer internships. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and being at least 16 years old. The application period varies, but for example, the summer 2015 internship application deadline was March 1, 20151.
NASA STEM Fellowships: Unfortunately, specific details about these fellowships are not available in the provided search results2.
14.Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program: Non-degree study.
15.Fulbright Scholarships: Various degree levels.
16.Marconi International University Scholarships: Various degree levels (no English proficiency test required).
17.Clark University Global Scholars Program: Undergraduate degrees.
18.MIT Scholarships: Various degree levels.
19.Harvard University Scholarships: Various degree levels.
20.Yale University Scholarships: Various degree levels.
Tips for Applying
When applying for these scholarships, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Here are some tips to increase your chances of success:
Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship.
Highlight your academic achievements, leadership skills, and any unique talents.
Pay close attention to application deadlines and ensure all required documents are submitted.
Follow the instructions provided by each scholarship program.
Be patient and persistent throughout the application process.
Conclusion
Studying in the USA is a dream for many international students, and these fully funded scholarships can turn that dream into reality. By applying for these scholarships and following the tips provided, you can greatly reduce the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the USA.
FAQs
1. Are these scholarships available for all nationalities?
Eligibility varies for each scholarship, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements.
2. Can I apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
3. What are the typical application deadlines for these scholarships?
Application deadlines vary, but they often fall between October and February for the following academic year.
4. Is there an age limit for applying to these scholarships?
Age requirements may vary, so check the eligibility criteria for each scholarship.
5. Can I apply for scholarships if I’m already studying in the USA?
Some scholarships may be available to current international students, so it’s worth exploring your options.