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Scholarships in United States
Overview
The US offers a variety of funding for international students, though competition is high and many programs are merit-based. International students are not eligible for U.S. federal aid, but they can apply for other scholarships. As universities emphasize internationalization, scholarship opportunities for foreign students have grown. Some U.S. universities even have need-blind admission for international applicants (e.g. Harvard, Yale, MIT, Princeton, Amherst), meaning they admit students regardless of ability to pay and offer aid to meet full demonstrated need.
U.S. Government-Funded Scholarships
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The flagship U.S. government scholarship for international students to pursue graduate study or research in the U.S. This prestigious program is open to applicants from over 150 countries and covers nearly all academic fields except clinical medicine. Recipients are selected through a competitive national process organized by the U.S. embassy or Fulbright commission in their home country. The Fulbright is merit-based and highly competitive, emphasizing academic excellence, leadership, and the ability to contribute to cross-cultural exchange.
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship
A 10-month non-degree program for experienced professionals from designated countries. It allows professionals to take academic courses and engage in professional development in the U.S., though it doesn't confer a degree. Fellows are placed at U.S. universities and gain exposure to American institutions, professional networks, and practical skills in their field.
University Scholarships and Financial Aid
Many U.S. universities offer substantial scholarships and financial aid to international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
Institutional Need-Based Aid (Need-Blind Schools)
A handful of top universities — Harvard, Princeton, MIT, Yale, Amherst, Bowdoin, and Dartmouth — are need-blind for international applicants and offer full-need financial aid packages. This means admission decisions are made without regard to your ability to pay; if you are admitted, the school provides grants and scholarships to cover up to 100% of your demonstrated financial need (often a combination of university scholarship and sometimes work-study). These awards can effectively function as full scholarships covering tuition and living costs — making an elite U.S. education free for low-income international students.
American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
A prestigious full-tuition award at American University in Washington, D.C., for outstanding international students committed to positive civic and social change. The scholarship is highly selective and looks for students who have demonstrated leadership in their communities and show commitment to improving their home countries after graduation.
Clark University Global Scholars Program
Provides merit scholarships for high-achieving international undergraduates at Clark University. In addition to financial aid, scholars gain access to a paid internship — making this a strong option for students who want both funding and career development opportunities in the U.S.
Graduate Assistantships (RA/TA)
For graduate (especially doctoral and research master's) students, a common funding route is through research assistantships (RA) or teaching assistantships (TA). While not termed 'scholarships,' these positions cover tuition and provide a living stipend in exchange for research or teaching work. Many STEM and research-oriented programs in the U.S. offer full funding packages to their admitted Ph.D. students via assistantships or fellowships. Prospective international grad students should always inquire about funding opportunities such as RA/TA positions or university fellowships in their department.
Non-Governmental and External Scholarships
Open Society Foundations - Civil Society Leadership Awards
Provides fully-funded master's degree scholarships for students from select developing countries to study in the U.S. (or other host countries). These awards are targeted at students who have demonstrated civic engagement and commitment to social change and development in their home countries. The program covers tuition and living expenses for programs related to social justice, governance, and development.
YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarships
A campaign-backed scholarship at over 50 U.S. colleges designed to support international students of any field who foster intercultural understanding and diversity. Participating universities offer at least 50% tuition scholarships. Applicants typically submit an essay or project about promoting intercultural exchange. The program reflects the growing commitment of U.S. colleges to welcoming global talent.
The American Association of University Women offers fellowships for international female graduate students pursuing master's, doctoral, or postdoctoral studies in the U.S.
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
Provides scholarships for postgraduate students from select developing countries to study anywhere in the world, including U.S. universities.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Focused on Sub-Saharan African students, this program partners with certain U.S. universities to fund full scholarships including leadership development components.
East-West Center Scholarships (Hawaii)
Supports students from Asia-Pacific to pursue graduate study at the University of Hawaii, promoting Asia-Pacific community.
Rotary Peace Fellowships
Funds master's degrees or professional certificates in fields related to peace and development at select universities.
Tips & Notes
- Contact the EducationUSA office or U.S. embassy in your country for guidance on scholarship opportunities.
- Many U.S. universities maintain scholarship lists for international applicants on their admissions websites.
- For doctoral programs, always inquire about RA/TA positions or university fellowships in your department.
- Research scholarships specific to your background, field, or home country.