Studying in the United States is a dream for many students around the world, but the high cost of tuition, living expenses, and travel can make it seem impossible. Fortunately, USA scholarships for international students provide a golden opportunity to pursue a world-class education without financial burdens. With fully funded scholarships, students can focus on their studies while their tuition, accommodation, and other costs are covered.
But how can you find the right USA scholarships for international students? What are the eligibility criteria, and how do you increase your chances of securing one? Are there scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs? Many students struggle to find reliable information and miss out on life-changing opportunities simply because they don’t know where to look or how to apply.
This page provides all the answers you need! We have carefully researched and compiled a list of the best fully funded USA scholarships for international students, explaining their benefits, requirements, and application processes. Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate, or PhD applicant, you’ll find scholarships that suit your academic goals. Keep reading to discover how you can secure a scholarship and make your dream of studying in the USA a reality!
How to Apply for Fully Funded USA Scholarships
Applying for fully funded USA scholarships for international students can be a life-changing opportunity, but the process requires careful planning and attention to detail. These scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and sometimes even travel costs, making it possible for students from all over the world to study in the United States without financial stress.
Steps to Apply for Fully Funded USA Scholarships
1. Research Available Scholarships
Start by identifying scholarships that match your academic background, field of study, and financial needs. Some well-known options include the Fulbright Program, Hubert Humphrey Fellowship, and the Gates Scholarship. Ensure you check the eligibility requirements before applying.
2. Prepare Essential Documents
Most scholarship applications require:
- Academic transcripts
- A well-written personal statement or essay
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
- A valid passport
3. Check Application Deadlines
Each scholarship has its own deadline. Begin your application early to avoid last-minute errors and ensure all required documents are submitted on time.
4. Write a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement should highlight your achievements, goals, and reasons for applying. Make it compelling and tailored to the scholarship’s objectives.
5. Obtain Strong Recommendation Letters
Letters from teachers, professors, or employers can boost your chances. Choose recommenders who know your skills and academic abilities well.
6. Apply Through the Official Website
Always submit your application through the official scholarship website. Be cautious of scams and fake scholarship offers.
7. Prepare for Interviews (If Required)
Some scholarships require interviews. Practice answering common questions about your academic goals, leadership experience, and how the scholarship will impact your future.
10 USA Scholarships for International Students
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is one of the most well-known USA scholarships for international students. It is designed for students from over 155 countries who want to study for a master’s or PhD degree in the United States. The scholarship is fully funded, meaning it covers tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, and health insurance.
This program is highly competitive, and applicants are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and research interests. One major advantage of the Fulbright scholarship is that it allows students to study in any U.S. university of their choice, as long as they get accepted. The scholarship duration depends on the degree program, typically one to two years for master’s and longer for PhD students.
2. Harvard University Scholarships
Harvard University is one of the top universities in the world, and it offers fully funded USA scholarships for international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The Harvard Financial Aid Initiative (HFAI) provides full tuition coverage for undergraduate students from families with low income, ensuring they can study without worrying about costs.
For graduate students, Harvard offers several fully funded fellowships and grants, depending on the course of study. These scholarships cover tuition, accommodation, and even personal expenses. Since Harvard is a prestigious university, getting a scholarship here requires high academic achievement, leadership skills, and strong recommendations.
3. Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholarship
The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship at Stanford University is a fully funded opportunity for graduate students. It provides full tuition coverage, a living stipend, and travel allowance. Every year, the program selects around 100 top students from different countries to study at Stanford.
One unique feature of this scholarship is its leadership development program. Scholars receive mentorship, attend workshops, and work on global issues. To qualify, students must have a strong academic record, leadership qualities, and a vision to change the world. This scholarship is perfect for international students who want to study in the USA with full financial support.
4. Yale University Scholarships
Yale University, another top-ranking institution, provides need-based fully funded USA scholarships for international students. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate financial need. The amount awarded depends on the student’s family income, with some receiving full tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
Yale’s scholarships ensure that talented students from any background can study at the university without financial stress. The university is highly selective, and applicants need to have excellent academic performance, leadership experience, and a strong application essay.
5. University of Chicago Scholarships
The University of Chicago offers several fully funded scholarships for international students, helping them pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees without worrying about tuition fees. One of the most famous is the Odyssey Scholarship, which provides full tuition, a stipend for living expenses, and additional funding for personal development.
For graduate students, the university offers fellowships that cover tuition, research grants, and monthly stipends. With its world-class education and generous funding, the University of Chicago is an excellent option for international students looking for USA scholarships.
6. AAUW International Fellowships
The AAUW (American Association of University Women) International Fellowships support women who want to study in the United States. This scholarship is only for female international students who wish to pursue graduate or postgraduate studies (master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral research).
The fellowship provides up to $50,000 per year, covering tuition, living costs, books, and travel expenses. The goal is to help women become leaders in their fields. To apply, you must have a bachelor’s degree, a strong academic record, and a plan to return to your home country after your studies.
7. Clark Global Scholarship Program
The Clark Global Scholarship Program is a fully funded opportunity for international undergraduate students who want to study at Clark University in Massachusetts. It is designed for students who have excellent academic records and leadership skills.
The scholarship covers full tuition and living expenses, with a value ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 per year for four years. If a student still needs extra financial aid, Clark University may provide additional funding to cover all costs.
Applicants must have a high school diploma, strong academic achievements, and demonstrate a commitment to making a difference in their communities.
8. Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is different from traditional scholarships because it is a non-degree program for mid-career professionals from developing countries. This means it is not for earning a full master’s or PhD, but for gaining professional experience and leadership skills in the USA.
This program lasts 10 months to 1 year and includes fully funded training, professional workshops, leadership development, and networking opportunities. Fellows also attend courses at selected universities, but do not receive a degree.
It covers tuition, travel costs, health insurance, living expenses, and professional development activities. Applicants should have a minimum of five years of work experience and show leadership potential.
9. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is one of the most generous USA scholarships for international students, especially for students from Africa. The program provides full financial support to talented students who face economic barriers.
It is available at several top universities in the USA, such as Duke University, Stanford University, and Arizona State University. The scholarship covers full tuition, accommodation, books, travel, and a living stipend.
To be eligible, students must have strong academic records, leadership skills, and a desire to contribute to their home communities after graduation.
10. Bill Gates Scholarship (Gates Millennium Scholars Program)
The Bill Gates Scholarship, also known as the Gates Millennium Scholars Program, is a highly competitive, fully funded scholarship for outstanding minority students from around the world. This scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership skills, and community involvement.
The scholarship covers 100% of tuition, accommodation, books, and other educational expenses. It is available for undergraduate students at any accredited university in the USA.
Applicants must have a high GPA (typically above 3.3 on a 4.0 scale) and must demonstrate financial need. Students from African, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander, and Hispanic American backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions About USA Scholarships for International Students
Can international students get fully funded scholarships in the USA?
Yes! Many universities and organizations offer fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, accommodation, living expenses, travel, and health insurance. Examples include the Fulbright Scholarship, AAUW International Fellowships, and the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program.
Do I need to take the SAT or ACT to get a scholarship?
For undergraduate scholarships, some universities require SAT or ACT scores, while others are test-optional. For graduate scholarships, you may need to take the GRE or GMAT, depending on the program.
When should I start applying for scholarships?
Most USA scholarships open 6-12 months before the academic year starts. It is best to start preparing your documents at least a year in advance.
For example, if you want to study in Fall 2026, you should start researching and preparing applications in early 2025.
Do I need to pay an application fee for scholarships?
Most scholarships do not require an application fee. However, some universities charge application fees for admission, which you may need to pay before being considered for their scholarships.
Some organizations offer application fee waivers for students with financial difficulties.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?
Yes! You can apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for. This increases your chances of getting financial aid. However, if you receive multiple fully funded scholarships, you may have to choose only one.
What happens if I win a scholarship but my visa gets rejected?
If your student visa (F1 or J1) is denied, you should contact the scholarship provider or university. Some may allow you to defer your scholarship to the next academic year, while others may require you to reapply.