8 International Scholarships for College

Scholarships for International Students to Study in the United States

Scholarships for international students in the United States help make higher education accessible for learners around the world. Funded by U.S. universities, government agencies, and private organizations, these awards support undergraduate, graduate, and research students who wish to pursue their studies in America.

Are There Scholarships for International Students in the U.S.?

Yes, there are many scholarships, grants, and fellowships available for international students to study in the United States. These awards are offered based on merit, financial need, leadership potential, or area of study, and can cover tuition, housing, travel, and living expenses. Opportunities are available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

What Is the Fulbright Foreign Student Program?

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships for international students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in the U.S. Eligibility includes:

• Being a citizen of an eligible country participating in the Fulbright Program.
• Holding at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent prior to enrollment.
• Demonstrating academic excellence and leadership potential.

This fully funded program covers tuition, airfare, health insurance, and living stipends for study or research at U.S. universities.

What Is the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship?

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship provides mid-career professionals from developing countries with an opportunity to pursue non-degree graduate-level study and professional development in the U.S. Key details include:

• Open to professionals in fields such as public health, education, law, and environmental policy.
• Covers tuition, travel, living expenses, and health insurance for one academic year.
• Emphasizes leadership and public service.

This fellowship strengthens international collaboration and builds global networks among emerging leaders.

What Is the AAUW International Fellowship?

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) International Fellowship supports women from around the world who wish to study full-time in the United States. Eligibility includes:

• Being a citizen of a country other than the U.S.
• Holding an academic degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
• Applying to accredited institutions for graduate or postgraduate study.

Fellowship amounts range from $20,000 to $50,000 depending on degree level, and recipients are selected for academic excellence and commitment to women’s empowerment.

Are There Scholarships for Undergraduate International Students?

Yes, many U.S. universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for undergraduate international students. Examples include:

• Yale University International Scholarships: Provide need-based financial aid covering up to 100% of demonstrated need.
• Amherst College Scholarships: Fully fund admitted international students with demonstrated financial need.
• Illinois Wesleyan International Student Scholarships: Offer up to $40,000 per year based on academic excellence.

These programs allow high-achieving students from around the world to pursue a U.S. education regardless of financial background.

What Scholarships Are Available for Graduate International Students?

Graduate-level scholarships for international students include:

• Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program: Supports students from developing countries pursuing master’s degrees in development-related fields.
• Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University): Fully funds graduate study at Stanford across multiple disciplines.
• PEO International Peace Scholarship: Offers funding for women pursuing graduate degrees in the U.S. and Canada.

These scholarships typically cover tuition, living stipends, and travel expenses, allowing recipients to focus on research and academics.

What Is the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program?

The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program partners with select U.S. universities to provide full scholarships for students from Africa and other developing regions. Key details include:

• Available at partner institutions such as Arizona State University and University of California, Berkeley.
• Includes full tuition, housing, books, and mentorship opportunities.
• Targets academically gifted students with financial need and a commitment to social impact.

This program develops future leaders dedicated to driving positive change in their communities.

Are There STEM Scholarships for International Students?

Yes, numerous scholarships support international students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, such as:

• Joint Japan/World Bank STEM Scholarships: Supports postgraduate students in technical and scientific disciplines.
• Microsoft Global Diversity Scholarship: Provides funding for international students pursuing computer science or engineering degrees.
• IBM Ph.D. Fellowship Awards: Supports outstanding Ph.D. students conducting innovative research in STEM fields.

These programs aim to expand access and representation in science and technology research worldwide.

What Are Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in the USA?

Fully funded scholarships cover all major educational expenses, including tuition, housing, meals, travel, and health insurance. Examples include:

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program: Full funding for master’s or doctoral study in the U.S.
• Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program: Full support for graduate studies at Stanford University.
• AAUW International Fellowship: Comprehensive funding for international women pursuing graduate education.
• MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program: Full scholarships for students from Africa and developing regions.

These highly competitive programs seek talented, motivated students from around the world.

Are There U.S. Government Scholarships for International Students?

Yes, the U.S. government funds several major scholarship programs for foreign students, including:

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program: Administered by the U.S. Department of State for graduate and research study.
• Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship: Focused on mid-career professionals developing leadership skills in public service.
• USAID Partnerships for Education Programs: Provide support for specific academic and development-focused studies.

Government scholarships often emphasize international cooperation and leadership in public service or research.

How to Apply for Scholarships to Study in the United States

When applying for U.S. scholarships as an international student, follow these steps:

• Research Opportunities: Explore university-based and government-funded programs that match your field of study.
• Prepare Application Materials: Gather transcripts, test scores, recommendation letters, and essays early.
• Demonstrate English Proficiency: Many programs require TOEFL or IELTS scores.
• Apply Before Deadlines: Scholarship deadlines often fall months before university admission deadlines.
• Highlight Global Impact: Emphasize how your education in the U.S. will contribute to your home country’s growth.

Applying to multiple scholarships increases your chances of securing full or partial funding to study in the United States.