Christian scholarships for international students offer a unique opportunity to pursue higher education while embracing faith based values. These scholarships are not only a source of financial support but also a platform to nurture leadership, community service, and spiritual growth. For students seeking to study abroad in 2026, Christian scholarships provide access to prestigious institutions, mentorship opportunities, and a network of like minded peers.
By combining academic excellence with Christian principles, these scholarships empower students to make meaningful contributions both locally and globally. In this guide, we explore 20 Christian scholarships designed for international students in 2026. Whether you’re pursuing theology, liberal arts, or STEM, these scholarships can support your dreams while nurturing your spiritual growth.
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What Are Christian Scholarships?
Christian scholarships are financial awards provided by churches, religious organizations, faith based foundations, and Christian educational institutions to support students who demonstrate both academic promise and a commitment to Christian values. Unlike conventional scholarships that focus purely on merit or financial need, Christian scholarships often prioritize spiritual engagement, ministry participation, and service to the community.
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These scholarships can take multiple forms: some are merit based, rewarding exceptional academic achievement; others are need based, offering support to students who require financial assistance; and some are ministry focused, aimed at students planning careers in theology, pastoral work, or community service.
By offering financial assistance alongside mentorship and networking opportunities within Christian communities, these scholarships help students pursue higher education while fostering personal growth, faith development, and leadership skills. In essence, Christian scholarships provide a pathway for students to advance academically without compromising their faith or values.
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Top 20 Christian Scholarships For International Students 2026
Below is a curated list of the most valuable Christian scholarships for international students for 2026. Each scholarship emphasizes faith, leadership, and academic excellence:
1. International Peace Scholarship (IPS)
- Overview: The P.E.O. Sisterhood, an organization committed to women’s education, offers the International Peace Scholarship. This program focuses on female students aspiring to study in the U.S. or Canada, emphasizing Christian principles and global peace.
- Eligibility: Female international students, enrolled or accepted in a graduate program in the U.S. or Canada, with demonstrated financial need.
- Award Amount: Up to $12,500 annually.
- Application Process: Applicants must secure admission to a recognized university and submit financial statements and references via the P.E.O. portal.
- Tips for Success: Highlight your commitment to peace and Christian values in the personal statement.
2. Baylor University International Scholarships
- Overview: Baylor University, a renowned Christian institution in the U.S., offers several scholarships for international students who exhibit academic excellence and align with its Christian mission.
- Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate international students with a strong academic record and involvement in Christian activities.
- Award Amount: Varies, often covering full or partial tuition.
- Application Process: Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, so applicants must complete the admissions process and submit scholarship applications.
- Unique Benefit: Access to Baylor’s rich Christian community and extracurricular activities.
- Pro Tip: Engage with Baylor’s international office early to understand additional funding options.
3. The Christian Connector Scholarship
- Overview: The Christian Connector is a platform offering scholarships to students planning to attend Christian colleges in the U.S. It simplifies access to multiple scholarship opportunities in one place.
- Eligibility: High school seniors and transfer students enrolling in a Christian college.
- Award Amount: $2,500.
- Application Process: Register on the Christian Connector website and complete the online form.
- Insight: This is a one-time scholarship with minimal application requirements, making it a great starting point for Christian students.
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4. World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) Scholarships
- Overview: The WEA funds scholarships for evangelical Christians pursuing higher education. The program focuses on developing leaders who can serve in various Christian ministries globally.
- Eligibility: Active members of an evangelical church with leadership potential.
- Award Amount: Up to $10,000 annually.
- Application Process: Submit a detailed application, including an essay on your leadership experience and vision for ministry.
- Tips: Showcase your involvement in church activities and outline how your education will benefit your community.
5. Christian Missionary Scholarship Foundation (CMSF)
- Overview: This scholarship supports the children of missionaries who are serving or have served internationally. It is specifically tailored for students attending Christian colleges in the U.S.
- Eligibility: Students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and children of missionaries.
- Award Amount: Up to $5,000 per year.
- Application Process: Provide documentation of your missionary background and proof of admission to a Christian college.
- Pro Tip: Highlight how your missionary upbringing has shaped your educational goals.
6. The Lilly Endowment Scholarship
- Overview: This scholarship emphasizes academic excellence and Christian service. While primarily for U.S. students, it often benefits international students who align with its mission.
- Eligibility: High school seniors committed to Christian values and service.
- Award Amount: Full tuition coverage.
- Application Process: Apply through your local community foundation; applications often involve essays and interviews.
- Extra Insight: Local church involvement is a significant factor in the selection process.
7. Rotary Peace Fellowship
- Overview: Rotary International offers the Peace Fellowship to graduate students pursuing studies in peace and conflict resolution. Many recipients come from Christian backgrounds, adding value to their faith-based pursuits.
- Eligibility: Graduate students with leadership in peace-related initiatives.
- Award Amount: Full funding, including tuition, travel, and living expenses.
- Application Process: Submit your application through Rotary’s global network.
- Pro Tip: Emphasize your faith-driven motivation for promoting peace.
8. Anglican Foundation of Canada Scholarships
- Overview: The Anglican Foundation supports theological students preparing for ministry roles in Canada or abroad. This scholarship aims to strengthen Anglican communities worldwide.
- Eligibility: Students pursuing theological education, affiliated with the Anglican Church.
- Award Amount: Varies, often covering partial tuition.
- Application Process: Submit transcripts, church recommendations, and a ministry proposal.
- Tips for Applicants: Include specific ways your education will benefit the Anglican community.
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9. Christian Community Credit Union Scholarship
- Overview: This program provides financial aid to students who are members of the Christian Community Credit Union and plan to attend Christian colleges.
- Eligibility: Members of the credit union pursuing higher education.
- Award Amount: Up to $4,000.
- Application Process: Submit your application along with a statement of faith.
- Pro Tip: Mention your career aspirations and their alignment with Christian values.
10. Azusa Pacific University Scholarships
- Overview: Azusa Pacific University offers several scholarships for international students committed to their faith and academic success.
- Eligibility: International undergraduate and graduate students with Christian involvement.
- Award Amount: Up to $20,000 per year.
- Application Process: Complete the admissions process and apply for financial aid.
- Unique Feature: Opportunities for leadership development through the university’s Christian programs.
11. Liberty University International Scholarships
- Overview: Liberty University, a top-ranked Christian institution, offers scholarships for international students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to Christian values.
- Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students admitted to Liberty University with a strong record of academic achievement and involvement in faith-based activities.
- Award Amount: Varies, with scholarships covering partial to full tuition.
- Application Process: Complete the admissions process and submit financial aid applications through the university portal.
- Unique Feature: Access to Liberty’s extensive spiritual life programs, including weekly convocation events and campus ministries.
12. Seattle Pacific University (SPU) Scholarships
- Overview: SPU provides generous scholarships for students who align with its Christian mission, promoting academic achievement and spiritual growth.
- Eligibility: Undergraduate international students with demonstrated academic merit and leadership in Christian communities.
- Award Amount: Up to $25,000 annually.
- Application Process: Scholarships are merit-based; applicants must complete the admissions process and provide supporting documents showcasing extracurricular achievements.
- Unique Opportunity: Engage with SPU’s vibrant campus ministries and service projects.
- Pro Tip: Highlight any community service projects or leadership roles in your church.
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13. Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU) Scholarships
- Overview: The CCCU supports students attending member institutions, many of which offer scholarships tailored to Christian international students.
- Eligibility: Students enrolled at a CCCU member institution, demonstrating a commitment to faith and academic excellence.
- Award Amount: Varies by institution.
- Application Process: Check with individual member colleges for specific scholarships and application guidelines.
- Unique Feature: Access to a global network of Christian colleges and universities.
- Tip for Success: Leverage CCCU’s resources for internships and study-abroad programs aligned with Christian missions.
14. Houghton University Scholarships for International Students
- Overview: Houghton University offers scholarships for international students who want to combine academic achievement with Christian discipleship.
- Eligibility: Undergraduate international students committed to Christian faith and community service.
- Award Amount: Up to $22,000 per year.
- Application Process: Submit your admissions application, transcripts, and financial aid forms.
- Highlight: A unique Christian liberal arts experience focusing on global outreach.
- Pro Tip: Discuss how your educational goals align with Houghton’s mission in your scholarship essay.
15. African Christian Scholarship Foundation
- Overview: This foundation provides scholarships to African students pursuing higher education at Christian institutions abroad.
- Eligibility: African students with a strong Christian background and leadership potential.
- Award Amount: Covers tuition and other educational expenses, depending on the program.
- Application Process: Submit an application with references from church leaders and a detailed personal statement.
- Special Note: Emphasis is placed on students who plan to return to their home countries to contribute to Christian ministries.
16. Nazarene Theological Seminary Scholarships
- Overview: For students pursuing theological education, Nazarene Theological Seminary offers scholarships to support Christian leadership and ministry development.
- Eligibility: Graduate students studying theology, committed to serving in ministry roles.
- Award Amount: Partial tuition coverage, with some full scholarships available for exemplary candidates.
- Application Process: Apply through the seminary’s website, including a detailed statement of faith and ministry goals.
- Unique Feature: Mentorship from seasoned ministers and opportunities for practical ministry experience.
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17. Calvin University Scholarships
- Overview: Calvin University offers scholarships to international students who embody the institution’s Reformed Christian values.
- Eligibility: High-achieving undergraduate students with a commitment to Christian faith and service.
- Award Amount: Up to $21,000 annually.
- Application Process: Submit the general application for admission along with financial documents.
- Highlight: Access to Calvin’s vibrant faith-based campus activities, including mission trips.
18. Wheaton College International Student Scholarships
- Overview: Wheaton College is a Christian liberal arts institution offering scholarships for students seeking academic and spiritual growth.
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic records and active participation in Christian ministries.
- Award Amount: Varies, often covering significant portions of tuition.
- Application Process: Scholarships are integrated with the admissions process.
- Unique Feature: Access to Wheaton’s world-renowned theological and mission programs.
19. Faith Christian Fellowship (FCF) International Scholarships
- Overview: FCF offers scholarships for students involved in Christian fellowships worldwide, aiming to equip them for leadership roles in ministry and education.
- Eligibility: Members of Faith Christian Fellowship or similar evangelical organizations.
- Award Amount: Varies, often focused on tuition support.
- Application Process: Submit an essay detailing your Christian journey and future goals in ministry.
- Unique Feature: Opportunities to network with FCF leaders and ministries globally.
20. International Fellowship of Evangelical Students (IFES) Scholarships
- Overview: IFES supports evangelical students pursuing higher education in Christian values and leadership training worldwide.
- Eligibility: Students actively involved in IFES-affiliated fellowships, pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies.
- Award Amount: Varies by region and program.
- Application Process: Contact your local IFES chapter for application guidelines.
- Highlight: A global network of evangelical Christian students for mentorship and support.
- Pro Tip: Emphasize your commitment to faith-based leadership and community impact.
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Countries Offering Christian Scholarships for International Students
Christian scholarships are widely available in countries with strong faith based educational institutions:
- United States: Home to multiple faith based universities and full funding options
- United Kingdom: Scholarships focus on divinity and theology programs
- Canada: Offers international scholarships for Christian leadership and ministry studies
- Australia: Supports theological and ministry postgraduate students
- Europe and Other Regions: Select institutions provide Christian scholarship opportunities
Conclusion
Christian scholarships for international students in 2026 represent an exceptional opportunity to combine academic excellence with spiritual growth. From fully funded programs in the United States to specialized theological scholarships in the UK and Canada, students can pursue higher education without financial barriers while developing leadership and service skills.
By preparing early, meeting eligibility requirements, and showcasing commitment to Christian values, aspiring students can secure funding that opens doors to world-class institutions and life-changing experiences. These scholarships not only support individual success but also nurture the next generation of faith driven leaders capable of contributing meaningfully to communities worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Christian scholarships?
Christian scholarships are financial aid programs offered by Christian organizations, churches, or faith-based institutions. These scholarships are designed to support students who embody Christian values, demonstrate leadership in their communities, or intend to contribute to faith-based initiatives.
2. Who is eligible for Christian scholarships for international students?
Eligibility criteria vary, but most Christian scholarships require:
- Proof of academic excellence.
- Demonstrated commitment to Christian faith or involvement in church activities.
- Leadership in community or ministry initiatives.
- Enrollment or acceptance at a recognized Christian institution.
3. Are Christian scholarships limited to theological studies?
No, many Christian scholarships support students pursuing diverse fields such as medicine, engineering, arts, business, and more. However, some scholarships specifically focus on theology or ministry-related programs.
4. How can I apply for a Christian scholarship?
The general steps to apply include:
- Research scholarship opportunities suited to your needs and qualifications.
- Prepare required documents like transcripts, proof of faith, recommendation letters, and essays.
- Complete the application form on the scholarship provider’s website.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
5. Can international students apply for Christian scholarships in the USA or Canada?
Yes, many Christian scholarships are open to international students studying in countries like the USA, Canada, the UK, or Australia. Institutions like Liberty University, Calvin University, and Wheaton College specifically welcome international applicants.
6. Do I need to be affiliated with a specific denomination to qualify?
Not always. While some scholarships are denomination-specific (e.g., Baptist, Catholic, Methodist), others are open to any Christian denomination as long as the applicant demonstrates active faith and commitment to Christian values.
7. What documents are required for Christian scholarship applications?
Typical documents include:
- Academic transcripts.
- Personal statement or essay about your faith journey.
- Letters of recommendation (preferably from pastors or faith leaders).
- Proof of enrollment or acceptance at a Christian institution.
- Financial need documentation (if required).
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