The United States is one of the most desired study destinations in the world, and for good reason. With top-ranked universities, cutting-edge research facilities, and a global network of professionals, the US attracts thousands of international students every year. But while the academic dream is big, the financial cost can also be overwhelming. This is why many students are now turning to scholarships in the US for international students to make their dreams a reality without breaking the bank.
Are you wondering how to study in the US for free? Which scholarships are open to international students like you? Do you want to know which American universities offer the most generous funding? Or are you confused about how to apply for a US scholarship and which ones you actually qualify for? These are the burning questions we hear from students across Africa, Asia, Europe, and beyond, and we’re here to answer them.
We are passionate about helping students gain access to life-changing education opportunities. That’s why we’ve put together this detailed guide to the top Scholarships in the US for International Students. In this blog post, you’ll find trusted information on the best scholarships, what they cover, who can apply, and how to submit your application with confidence. If studying in the US is your goal, this is the right place to start.
Scholarships in the US for International Students
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is one of the most famous scholarships in the US for international students. It helps students from over 160 countries to study in the US for a master’s or PhD degree. This scholarship fully covers your tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and even your airplane ticket to the US and back home. It is perfect for students who want to do research or advanced studies in many fields like science, arts, and social sciences.
The application process is competitive but worth trying if you want full support for your studies. You apply through the US embassy or Fulbright commission in your home country.
Apply here: https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org
2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship is a special program designed for mid-career professionals from many countries. Unlike traditional degrees, this fellowship offers non-degree study and professional training in the US. It covers tuition fees, travel costs, a monthly living stipend, and health insurance. The program focuses on leadership and helps fellows improve their skills while gaining experience in American institutions.
This fellowship is a great choice if you already have work experience and want to grow your career through learning and networking in the US.
Apply here: https://humphreyfellowship.org
3. AAUW International Fellowships (for Women)
The AAUW International Fellowships are scholarships specially for women who are not US citizens. These scholarships help women studying for a master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral research in the US. The fellowship gives between $20,000 and $50,000 to cover tuition, living costs, and research expenses.
This scholarship supports women who plan to return to their home country to use their education to improve their communities. It is a strong option for female students who want financial help to study in the US.
Apply here: https://www.aauw.org/resources/programs/fellowships-grants/current-opportunities/international/
4. Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University offers full funding to international and US students who want to pursue graduate studies. This scholarship pays for tuition, living expenses, travel, and more. It is open to students from all academic fields, including business, engineering, medicine, and humanities.
This program is very competitive and looks for students who show leadership, creativity, and the desire to make a positive impact in the world. If you want to study at one of the best universities in the US, this scholarship could help you afford it.
Apply here: https://knight-hennessy.stanford.edu
5. Yale University Scholarships
Yale University offers many scholarships for international students at undergraduate and graduate levels. These scholarships can cover full or partial tuition fees based on your financial need. Yale wants to make sure money is not a barrier for talented students from around the world who want to study there.
If you are admitted to Yale, you can apply for financial aid and scholarships through the university. They evaluate your financial situation and provide support to help you afford your education.
Apply here: https://finaid.yale.edu
6. The Gates Scholarship
The Gates Scholarship is a very special and fully funded scholarship for outstanding minority students who want to study in the US. It is mostly for undergraduate students who have high academic achievements but need financial help. This scholarship covers tuition, fees, room, board, books, and transportation.
Because it supports all major expenses, it is one of the most sought-after scholarships in the US for international students who come from minority backgrounds. If you want to study in the US but worry about costs, the Gates Scholarship can give you full financial support.
Apply here: https://www.thegatesscholarship.org
7. Harvard University Scholarships
Harvard University offers many scholarships based on need for international students studying at undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels. These scholarships are designed to cover part or all of your tuition and living expenses, depending on your financial need. Harvard wants to help talented students from all over the world attend their university, regardless of their financial background.
If you get admitted to Harvard, you can apply for these financial aids, which are part of their strong support system for international students. This makes Harvard’s scholarships some of the best scholarships in the US for international students who need help paying for top education.
Apply here: https://college.harvard.edu/financial-aid
8. Clark Global Scholars Program
The Clark Global Scholars Program is for first-year undergraduate international students who want to study in the US. It provides scholarships ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 per year, which can be renewed if you continue to meet the requirements.
This scholarship helps reduce the cost of tuition and living expenses, making it easier for international students to attend Clark University. It focuses on students who have strong academic records and leadership skills.
Apply here: https://www.clarku.edu/offices/financial-aid/prospective-students/international-students/
9. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is a full scholarship that covers tuition, room, and board for international students who want to make a difference in their home countries. This scholarship is for undergraduate students who show strong leadership skills and a commitment to social change.
It is one of the top scholarships in the US for international students aiming to empower future leaders worldwide. If you want to study in a diverse environment and gain a quality education, this scholarship could be a perfect fit.
Apply here: https://www.american.edu/admissions/international/egls.cfm
10. Rotary Peace Fellowship
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is a fully funded scholarship for professionals who want to study peace and conflict resolution. It covers tuition, fees, travel, and living expenses for master’s degree or certificate programs at select universities in the US and around the world.
This scholarship is ideal for international students who already work in peacebuilding or community development and want to improve their skills to help their communities better. It is one of the respected scholarships in the US for international students focused on making the world a more peaceful place.
Apply here: https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/peace-fellowships
Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships in US for International Students
What are scholarships in the US for international students?
Scholarships in the US for international students are financial awards given to students from other countries to help pay for their education in the United States. These can cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and sometimes books or health insurance.
Who can apply for scholarships in the US as an international student?
Most scholarships in the US for international students are open to students with excellent academic records, leadership qualities, or special talents. Some scholarships target specific groups, like women, Indigenous peoples, or students from certain countries. Usually, you must be accepted by a US university before applying.
Do scholarships in the US for international students cover all expenses?
Some scholarships are full, meaning they cover tuition, living costs, and other expenses. Others are partial and only cover tuition or part of your fees. Always check the scholarship details to understand what costs are covered.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships in the US as an international student?
Yes, you can apply for several scholarships at the same time. Applying for many scholarships increases your chances of getting financial support.
Are there scholarships for graduate and PhD students in the US?
Yes, many scholarships in the US for international students are available for master’s and doctoral programs. These often focus on research, leadership, or professional development.