Fully Funded Scholarships in USA for International Students

Pursuing higher education in the United States can be an expensive endeavor, especially for international students. However, there are numerous fully funded scholarships available that can alleviate the financial burden and provide an opportunity for talented students from around the world to study at some of the best universities in the US. In this article, we will explore the top 20 fully funded scholarships for international students in the US.

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships offered by the US government. This program aims to foster mutual understanding between the United States and other countries through educational and cultural exchange.

Requirements:

• Be a citizen of a country other than the United States
• Have a bachelor's degree or equivalent
• Demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential
• Possess English proficiency
• Have a clear and well-articulated study/research goal

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides funding for tuition, textbooks, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance. The scholarship is awarded for one year of graduate study or research in the United States.

Additional Information:

• Application process involves submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose
• Preference is given to applicants who have not previously studied in the United States
• Candidates must apply through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country

2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is a Fulbright exchange activity sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. It provides a year of non-degree academic study and professional experience in the United States for mid-career professionals from designated countries.

Requirements:

• Be a citizen of an eligible country
• Have a bachelor's degree or equivalent
• Have at least five years of substantial professional experience
• Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to public service
• Possess English proficiency

The Humphrey Fellowship provides tuition, fees, a monthly maintenance allowance, accident and sickness coverage, and funding for books and professional activities. Fellows are also eligible for supplemental travel funds.

Additional Information:

• The program focuses on various fields, including sustainable development, democratic institution building, education, and public health
• Fellows are placed at a designated host university in the United States
• The program includes professional workshops, campus audits, special seminars, and opportunities for networking

3. Chevening Scholarships

The Chevening Scholarships are awarded by the UK government to outstanding scholars with leadership potential from around the world to study a master's degree in the UK. While this scholarship is not specifically for studying in the US, it is a highly prestigious and fully funded opportunity for international students.

Requirements:

• Be a citizen of an eligible Chevening country
• Have an undergraduate degree with excellent academic records
• Demonstrate leadership potential and strong networking skills
• Possess English proficiency
• Meet the entry requirements for the chosen master's program

The Chevening Scholarship provides tuition fees, a monthly stipend, travel costs to and from the UK, and additional grants for field trips and research projects.

Additional Information:

• Applicants must apply through the Chevening website or the British Embassy/High Commission in their home country
• Applicants must have at least two years of work experience
• The program aims to develop future global leaders and create lasting positive relationships with the UK

4. Schwarzman Scholars Program

The Schwarzman Scholars Program is a highly selective international scholarship program designed to prepare future leaders for a global landscape. Students can pursue a one-year master's degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China.

Requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old and not yet 29 years old by the time of enrollment
• Have an undergraduate degree or equivalent
• Demonstrate outstanding intellectual and leadership abilities
• Possess English proficiency

The Schwarzman Scholars Program provides tuition and fees, room and board, travel to and from Beijing, and a personal stipend. Additionally, scholars can take advantage of mentorship opportunities and immersive cultural experiences.

Additional Information:

• The application process involves online applications, letters of recommendation, and interviews
• The program emphasizes leadership development, cross-cultural immersion, and developing a global perspective
• Scholars have the opportunity to participate in internships, networking events, and other enrichment activities

5. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is a highly competitive scholarship offered by Stanford University to exceptional students from around the world. It aims to develop a community of future leaders who can drive positive change.

Requirements:

• Be admitted to a Stanford graduate degree program
• Demonstrate leadership abilities and a commitment to improving the world
• Possess English proficiency

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program provides funding for up to three years of study at Stanford, including tuition, fees, a living stipend, and other educational expenses. Scholars also have access to various leadership development opportunities and supportive services.

Additional Information:

• The application process involves online applications, essays, and interviews
• The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, community building, and personal development
• Scholars can pursue graduate degrees across various disciplines, including engineering, humanities, and social sciences

6. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD)

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) program is a European Union initiative that provides fully funded scholarships for international students to pursue joint master's degrees offered by a consortium of universities across Europe.

Requirements:

• Meet the specific entry requirements for the chosen EMJMD program
• Demonstrate academic excellence and motivation
• Possess English proficiency and/or proficiency in the language(s) of instruction

The EMJMD scholarships cover tuition fees, travel costs, and a monthly living allowance. The duration and funding amount may vary depending on the specific program.

Additional Information:

• Students can choose from a wide range of joint master's programs in various fields, such as engineering, business, social sciences, and more
• The application process involves submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements
• The program aims to promote international mobility and cooperation among universities in Europe and beyond

7. Boren Fellowships

The Boren Fellowships are sponsored by the National Security Education Program (NSEP) of the U.S. Department of Defense. They provide funding for U.S. graduate students to study less commonly taught languages and cultures around the world.

Requirements:

• Be a U.S. citizen at the time of application
• Be enrolled or planning to enroll in a U.S. graduate program
• Demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to studying a less commonly taught language

The Boren Fellowships provide funding for tuition, living expenses, and travel costs for up to two years of overseas study. Recipients must agree to work for the U.S. government for at least one year after completing their degree.

Additional Information:

• The program focuses on languages and cultures deemed critical to U.S. national security interests
• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays
• Preference is given to students pursuing fields related to national security, such as international relations, economics, and regional studies

8. Amideast Education Opportunity Scholarships

The Amideast Education Opportunity Scholarships are designed to support outstanding students from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to pursue graduate studies in the United States.

Requirements:

• Be a citizen of a MENA country
• Have an undergraduate degree with excellent academic records
• Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to community service
• Possess English proficiency

The Amideast Education Opportunity Scholarships cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for up to two years of graduate study in the United States. The scholarship also provides medical insurance and academic support services.

Additional Information:

• Applicants must apply through the Amideast office in their home country
• The program aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and develop future leaders in the MENA region
• Preference is given to students pursuing fields related to economic, social, and political development

9. Rotary Peace Fellowships

The Rotary Peace Fellowships are funded by Rotary International and support individuals committed to promoting peace, resolving conflicts, and advancing international understanding.

Requirements:

• Have a bachelor's degree or equivalent
• Demonstrate commitment to peace and conflict resolution
• Possess English proficiency

The Rotary Peace Fellowships provide funding for a master's degree program in peace and conflict resolution or a professional development certificate program at one of the Rotary Peace Centers around the world. The fellowship covers tuition, fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

Additional Information:

• The application process involves online applications, essays, and interviews
• Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential and commitment.

10. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program provides opportunities for outstanding students from select developing countries to pursue higher education at the world's leading universities.

Requirements:

• Be a national of a select developing country
• Have exceptional academic records and demonstrate financial need
• Possess English proficiency

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program covers tuition, living expenses, books, and travel costs for the duration of the degree program. The scholarship is renewable based on academic performance.

Additional Information:

• The program aims to develop future leaders with a strong commitment to contributing to the development of their home countries
• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays
• Preference is given to students pursuing fields related to development, such as agriculture, economics, and education

11. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program is a partnership between the Japanese government and the World Bank to support outstanding students from developing countries to pursue graduate studies in specific fields.

Requirements:

• Be a national of a World Bank member developing country
• Meet the admission requirements for the chosen graduate program
• Possess English proficiency

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program covers tuition, a monthly living allowance, travel costs, and supplemental fees. The scholarship is awarded for up to two years of graduate study in various fields, including economic policy, education, and public sector management.

Additional Information:

• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays
• Preference is given to candidates committed to contributing to the development of their home countries
• Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies

12. OAS Academic Scholarship Program

The OAS Academic Scholarship Program is offered by the Organization of American States (OAS) to support citizens of OAS member states in pursuing graduate studies and professional development opportunities.

Requirements:

• Be a citizen or permanent resident of an OAS member state
• Meet the admission requirements for the chosen graduate program
• Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential

The OAS Academic Scholarship Program provides tuition fees, a monthly allowance for living expenses, and other benefits such as books and study materials. The scholarship is awarded for up to two years of graduate study in various fields, including STEM, social sciences, and humanities.

Additional Information:

• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays
• Preference is given to candidates committed to contributing to the development of their home countries
• Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies

13. OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) Scholarship Award

The OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) Scholarship Award is designed to support students from developing countries in pursuing graduate studies in various fields related to development.

Requirements:

• Be a national of a developing country
• Meet the admission requirements for the chosen graduate program
• Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential

The OFID Scholarship Award covers tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, travel costs, and other associated expenses. The scholarship is awarded for up to two years of graduate study in fields such as economics, energy, environment, and agriculture.

Additional Information:

• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays
• Preference is given to candidates committed to contributing to the development of their home countries
• Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies

14. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program

The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program provides talented yet economically disadvantaged students from developing countries with comprehensive support to pursue higher education at partner universities around the world.

Requirements:

• Be a citizen of a developing country
• Demonstrate financial need and academic excellence
• Possess English proficiency

The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program covers tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and other expenses related to the student's degree program. Additionally, scholars receive mentorship, leadership development opportunities, and access to a network of fellow scholars.

Additional Information:

• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays
• The program aims to develop future leaders committed to transforming their communities and societies
• Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies

15. Developing Solutions Scholarship by Western Union

The Developing Solutions Scholarship by Western Union is a program designed to support students from developing countries in pursuing studies related to economic and social development.

Requirements:

• Be a citizen of a developing country
• Be enrolled or accepted into a graduate program related to economic or social development
• Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential

The Developing Solutions Scholarship by Western Union covers tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, and travel costs for the duration of the graduate program. The scholarship is awarded for up to two years of study.

Additional Information:

• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays
• Preference is given to candidates committed to contributing to the development of their home countries
• Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies

16. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program

The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program is a prestigious scholarship offered by the University of Toronto to outstanding international students pursuing graduate studies.

Requirements:

• Be an international student (non-Canadian citizen or permanent resident)
• Meet the admission requirements for the chosen graduate program at the University of Toronto
• Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential

The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs for up to four years of graduate study. The scholarship is awarded across various disciplines, including sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

Additional Information:

• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays
• The program aims to attract exceptional students with a diverse range of backgrounds and perspectives
• Scholars have the opportunity to engage in various academic and extracurricular activities at the University of Toronto

17. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are prestigious awards offered by the Government of Canada to support outstanding doctoral students from around the world in pursuing their studies at Canadian universities.

Requirements:

• Be enrolled or planning to enroll in a doctoral program at a Canadian university
• Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential
• Possess English or French proficiency

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships provide funding for up to three years of doctoral studies, including a stipend for living expenses and tuition fees. The scholarship aims to attract and retain world-class doctoral students to Canada.

Additional Information:

• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and research proposals
• The program is open to Canadian and international students across various disciplines
• Scholars have the opportunity to engage in various academic and research activities at their host institutions

18. Aga Khan Foundation International Bursaries

The Aga Khan Foundation International Bursaries are designed to support students from developing countries in pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies at the Aga Khan University in Pakistan, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, or the United Kingdom.

Requirements:

• Be a national of a developing country
• Demonstrate financial need and academic excellence
• Possess English proficiency

The Aga Khan Foundation International Bursaries cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs for the duration of the degree program. The bursaries are awarded across various disciplines, including medicine, nursing, education, and development studies.

Additional Information:

• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays
• The program aims to develop future leaders committed to contributing to the development of their home countries
• Preference is given to students from countries and regions where the Aga Khan Development Network operates

19. Harriet Isom Scholarship Program

The Harriet Isom Scholarship Program is a prestigious scholarship offered by Bryn Mawr College in the United States to international students pursuing undergraduate studies.

Requirements:

• Be an international student (non-U.S. citizen or permanent resident)
• Meet the admission requirements for Bryn Mawr College
• Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential

The Harriet Isom Scholarship Program covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs for the duration of the undergraduate program. The scholarship is awarded across various disciplines offered at Bryn Mawr College.

Additional Information:

• Applications involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays
• The program aims to attract exceptional international students to Bryn Mawr College
• Scholars have the opportunity to engage in various academic and extracurricular activities on campus

20. Utrecht Excellence Scholarships

The Utrecht Excellence Scholarships are offered by Utrecht University in the Netherlands to attract outstanding international students to pursue graduate studies in various fields.

Requirements:

• Be an international student (non-Dutch citizen)
• Meet the admission requirements for the chosen graduate program at Utrecht University
• Demonstrate academic excellence and motivation

The Utrecht Excellence Scholarships cover tuition fees and provide a monthly living allowance for the duration of the graduate program. The scholarship is awarded across various disciplines, including sciences, humanities,and others.