Explore the ultimate guide to scholarships for international students in the USA. Discover merit-based and need-based opportunities, eligibility tips, and strategies to fund your studies at top American universities. Each year, the United States attracts a vibrant and expanding community of learners from across the globe, transforming campuses into hubs of cultural exchange, innovation, and opportunity while increasing demand for scholarships for international students in USA.
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According to the Institute of International Education, more than 1.05 million international students were enrolled in U.S. institutions during the 2022 23 academic year, reflecting a strong recovery in global mobility and renewed interest in scholarships for international students in USA. Historically, the contrast is striking, as the mid-1950s saw fewer than 35,000 international students studying in the United States of America, highlighting decades of exponential growth.
Navigating eligibility requirements and intense competition makes securing scholarships for international students in USA both challenging and strategic. For this reason, this guide brings together the top 20 scholarships for international students in USA, offering clarity, direction, and opportunity for ambitious students ready to take the next step.
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Scholarship Types in the USA for International Students
For a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, there are numerous scholarships for international students in USA. To better understand how to obtain a scholarship to study in the United States, let’s examine each one individually:
1. Merit-based Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships in the USA reward international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and achieve high SAT or ACT scores. These awards often extend beyond academics to include sports scholarships, designed to recognize talent in specific disciplines. Additionally, the Average Academic Scholarship considers a student’s overall achievements, providing another avenue to support their educational journey.
2. Need-based Scholarships
Need-based scholarships focus on students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, offering essential financial support to pursue higher education. Prestigious institutions such as Cornell University and Harvard University provide various need-based scholarships to eligible international students, helping cover tuition and related expenses.
3. Country-based Scholarships
Country-based scholarships target students from underdeveloped or developing nations, aiming to expand access to quality education. These scholarships encourage talented students from such regions to pursue opportunities that might otherwise be beyond their reach.
4. University Scholarships
University scholarships in the USA are designed to support students throughout their academic journey. These awards are based on factors such as academic excellence, financial need, specific fields of study, or extracurricular achievements, tailored to meet the institution’s criteria.
5. Privately Funded Scholarships
Privately funded scholarships cater to specific groups, including women, minorities, and other underrepresented communities. Often referred to as private or external scholarships, these opportunities provide additional financial support for international students seeking higher education in the USA.
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Top 20 Scholarships for International Students in USA
Thousands of students choose the US for world-class education each year. Scholarships for international students in USA ease financial burdens, offering merit-based, need-based, and private awards. Top programmes like Fulbright and Gates, along with universities such as Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, cover tuition and living costs. Understanding eligibility, deadlines, and requirements unlocks these opportunities. Let’s explore the best scholarships for international students in USA.
1. US Fulbright Scholar Program
- Host University: Various U.S. universities
- Level of Study: Master’s or PhD
- Award Amount: $35,000 for Master’s students; funding for PhD students varies
- Type: Fully Funded
- Deadline: September 15, 2026
- Fields of Study: All disciplines
The Fulbright Scholar Program is among the top scholarships for international students in USA, designed to promote cross-cultural understanding and professional development. Participants gain access to fully funded opportunities, research collaborations, internships, and a network of over 400,000 alumni. Scholars develop leadership skills while contributing to global knowledge exchange.
2. Fulbright Foreign Students Scholarship
- Host University: Various US universities
- Level of Study: Master’s or PhD
- Award Amount: $35,000 for Master’s students
- Type: Fully Funded
- Deadline: April 30, 2026
- Fields of Study: All except medical studies involving patient care
This Fulbright award provides exceptional scholarships for international students in USA. Students gain the chance to pursue advanced study and research, foster international cooperation, and develop professionally. The program empowers students to build global networks while making impactful contributions to their fields of study.
3. Onsi Sawiris Scholarship
- Host University: Partner US universities
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Award Amount: Full tuition, living allowance, travel, and health insurance
- Type: Fully Funded
- Deadline: July 31, 2026
- Fields of Study: Business Administration & Engineering
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship is a distinguished option among scholarships for international students in USA, supporting Egyptian students pursuing advanced degrees. It covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and insurance while promoting leadership, innovation, and career readiness. Students gain international exposure and professional networks to contribute to Egypt’s development.
4. Freedom Foundation Scholarship
- Host University: Various US universities
- Level of Study: Non-degree programs
- Award Amount: Up to $30,000 for internships in the US
- Type: Fully Funded
- Deadline: March 31, 2026
- Fields of Study: Public Policy, Public Health, Education
The Freedom Foundation Scholarship offers mid-career professionals fully funded training, mentorship, and internships in the US. Recognized among top scholarships for international students in USA, it develops leadership potential, enhances career trajectories, and equips participants with practical skills to drive positive change in their home countries.
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5. Knight-Hennessy Scholarship
- Host University: Stanford University
- Level of Study: Master’s/PhD
- Award Amount: Up to $300,000 covering tuition, living, and academic costs
- Type: Fully Funded
- Deadline: October 2026
- Fields of Study: All graduate programs
The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship is a leading fully funded award for international students in USA. It nurtures future global leaders through mentorship, leadership training, and access to Stanford’s academic and networking resources. Scholars collaborate to solve complex global challenges while building lifelong connections.
6. The Gates Scholarship Program
- Host University: Various US universities
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Award Amount: Multiple awards covering full tuition, fees, room, board, books, and transportation
- Type: Fully Funded (last-dollar grant)
- Deadline: September 15, 2026
- Fields of Study: All undergraduate programs
The Gates Scholarship Program is a transformative opportunity among scholarships for international students in USA. Designed for minority high school seniors, it removes financial barriers, covers full educational costs, and empowers students to pursue undergraduate studies. Recipients gain mentorship, leadership training, and resources to achieve academic and personal excellence.
7. Clark Global Scholarship Program
- Host University: Clark University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Award Amount: $15,000–$25,000 per year
- Type: Partially Funded
- Deadline: May 10, 2026
- Fields of Study: Various undergraduate programs
The Clark Global Scholarship Program is one of the most competitive scholarships for international students in USA, recognizing exceptional academics and global leadership potential. Awardees receive substantial financial support while engaging in programs that develop skills, foster intercultural understanding, and promote long-term academic and professional success.
8. Yale University Scholarships
- Host University: Yale University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s, & PhD
- Award Amount: Up to $70,000 per year (need-based)
- Type: Fully Funded
- Deadline: December 15, 2026
- Fields of Study: All fields
Yale University Scholarships are highly regarded among scholarships for international students in USA. They provide fully funded financial support based on need and merit, covering tuition and living expenses. Recipients benefit from Yale’s prestigious academic environment, access to alumni networks, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
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9. Treasure Scholarship at Boise State University
- Host University: Boise State University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Award Amount: $8,460 per year
- Type: Partially Funded
- Deadline: May 1, 2026
- Fields of Study: All undergraduate programs
The Treasure Scholarship at Boise State University helps reduce tuition costs for international students. Recognized as one of the practical scholarships for international students in USA, it rewards academic excellence while enabling first-year and transfer students to pursue a bachelor’s degree with financial support and access to career development opportunities.
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10. Boston University Presidential Scholarship
- Host University: Boston University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Award Amount: $25,000 per year
- Type: Partially Funded
- Deadline: December 1, 2026
- Fields of Study: All undergraduate programs
Every year, entering first-year students who exhibit academic achievement are given the Presidential Scholarship by the Board of Admissions. Presidential Scholars are among the most intellectually gifted children, perform well outside of the classroom, and lead their communities and schools. The four-year renewable scholarship grant helps lower undergraduate students’ tuition expenses. For high-achieving students, it significantly lowers financial obstacles even though it does not pay the entire cost of tuition.
11. Berea College Scholarships
- Host University: Berea College
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Award Amount: Average aid package of $54,004
- Type: Fully Funded
- Deadline: January 2, 2026
- Fields of Study: Various undergraduate programs
All international students at Berea College receive full funding for their first year. This support, among the leading scholarships for international students in USA, covers tuition, accommodation, and board. Students are encouraged to save approximately $1,000 per year for additional expenses, while work-study opportunities can provide around $2,000 in earnings during the first year.
12. Cornell University Financial Aid
- Host University: Cornell University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Award Amount: $62,442 (varies)
- Type: Need-Based
- Deadline: February 15, 2026
- Fields of Study: All undergraduate programs
It offers financial aid to international students based on need and is one of the top scholarships for international students in the United States. This completely financed grant is only available for undergraduate study. Typically, the aid package consists of low-interest loans, grants, and work-study options. Cornell University (CU) strives to fulfill 100% of demonstrated financial need.
13. Illinois Wesleyan University Scholarships
- Host University: Illinois Wesleyan University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Award Amount: $16,000–$30,000 per year
- Type: Merit-Based
- Deadline: March 1, 2026
- Fields of Study: All undergraduate programs
Illinois Wesleyan University provides merit-based and need-based awards for international students. High-achieving students can receive scholarships ranging from $15,000 to $38,000 per year. Two exceptional first-year international students may earn the full-tuition President’s Scholarship. Additional support may include campus jobs, loans, or university-funded grants.
14. Tulane University Scholarship
- Host University: Tulane University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Award Amount: $1,000 to full tuition or cost of attendance
- Type: Merit-Based
- Deadline: February 15, 2026
- Fields of Study: All undergraduate programs
Tulane University provides a variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students studying in the United States. If they haven’t already received a merit scholarship worth at least $30,000, eligible candidates are eligible for need-based financial help. Students must reapply every year for need-based funding, providing the CSS profile and any necessary supporting documentation. Additionally, candidates who submit the Common Application for Admission are immediately eligible for partial merit awards.
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15. Radford University Scholarship
- Host University: Radford University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Award Amount: $12,000
- Type: Partially Funded
- Deadline: February 5, 2026
- Fields of Study: All undergraduate programs
Students with leadership and academic accomplishments are eligible to apply for the partially funded Radford University Scholarship. Students must apply for the scholarship and fulfill the university’s admission standards in order to be eligible. High-achieving students might receive significant tuition aid through this award for international students studying in the US. To increase their chances of receiving the scholarship, the college advises students to apply as soon as possible and provide all necessary paperwork.
16. Stanford University Scholarship
- Host University: Stanford University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate, Graduate
- Award Amount: Need-based, covers tuition and other costs
- Type: Fully Funded (for eligible students)
- Deadline: February 1, 2026
- Fields of Study: All programs
Based on eligibility, merit, and need, Stanford University offers a number of scholarships to students. Tuition, lodging and board, and other educational costs are covered by these scholarships for international students studying in the United States. Stanford uses a combination of grants, scholarships, work-study options, and low-interest loans to meet all of the demonstrated financial needs. Tuition is not required for students whose families make less than $100,000 a year. Students must finish the CSS Profile and the Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application in order to be eligible.
17. Marconi International University Scholarships
- Host University: Marconi International University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate, Graduate
- Award Amount: 20%–60% of tuition fees
- Type: Partially Funded
- Deadline: March 4, 2026
- Fields of Study: All programs
Additionally, MIU provides qualified students with a number of scholarships for international students studying in the United States. The scholarships, which partially cover tuition, are available to both domestic and international students. These scholarships are highly likely to be awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, financial need, and noteworthy accomplishments. Depending on their eligibility, one may receive full or partial tuition aid. Students must apply for the scholarship and fulfill the university’s admission standards in order to be eligible for the MIU award.
18. Frostburg State University
- Host University: Frostburg State University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate, Graduate
- Award Amount: $15,400 per year
- Type: Partially Funded
- Deadline: March 1, 2025
- Fields of Study: All programs
Scholarships for international students who excel academically and engage in community service are available from Frostburg State University in the United States. Depending on the candidate, these US scholarships for international students may pay for all or part of the tuition. Before the deadline, which falls between February and June, interested candidates must fulfill the requirements for admission and submit a scholarship application.
19. University of New Haven
- Host University: University of New Haven
- Level of Study: Undergraduate, Graduate
- Award Amount: $21,000–$26,000 per year
- Type: Partially Funded
- Deadline: June 1, 2026
- Fields of Study: All programs
Numerous scholarships for international students studying in the United States are offered by the University of New Haven in Connecticut to deserving undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships are given out in the USA on the basis of outstanding accomplishments in a variety of professions, leadership potential, and academic distinction. The award is renewable for a maximum of four years and ranges from $21,000 to $26,000 annually.
20. The HAAA Scholarship
- Host University: Harvard University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate
- Award Amount: Partial funding (varies)
- Type: Partially Funded
- Deadline: May 31, 2026
- Fields of Study: All fields
HAAA is collaborating closely with Harvard on two parallel programs aimed at addressing the historical underrepresentation of Arabs and increasing understanding of the Arab world. As part of Project Harvard Admissions, Harvard College students and alumni tour Arab institutions and high schools to share their educational experiences and help students with the Harvard application process. The goal of these scholarships for international students studying in the United States is to raise $10 million.
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Eligibility Requirements for Scholarships for International Students in USA
Before applying, it is essential to prepare a complete checklist for scholarships for international students in USA to ensure no step is overlooked. The first step is understanding the eligibility requirements, which vary across universities and scholarship programmes. Let’s explore how to successfully apply for scholarships for international students in the US.
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Application Process: Misinterpreting application guidelines is a common mistake among applicants. Securing a scholarship for international students in USA requires careful attention to deadlines, as scholarship timelines often differ from general university admissions dates. Planning ahead is key to submitting a strong application.
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Admission Requirements: Review the specific scholarship criteria of your target university before applying. Most applications require essential documents such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and proof of financial capacity, all submitted within the stated deadlines.
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Academic Requirements: Many scholarships for international students in USA include subject preferences or require standardized test scores such as SAT or ACT. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is typically expected, while some scholarships demand outstanding academic performance. Additionally, English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS are often mandatory for non-English-speaking applicants to demonstrate language competency.
Securing a prestigious scholarship in the United States demands strategy, preparation, and persistence. While the process may seem challenging, following the right approach can significantly improve your chances. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help international students navigate scholarship applications successfully:
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Expand Your Application Horizons: Research and apply to scholarships offered by multiple universities, foundations, and organizations across the US to maximize your opportunities.
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Leverage Expert Guidance: Consult your university’s study abroad office, academic advisors, and financial aid departments to gain valuable advice and support throughout the process.
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Obtain Impactful Recommendation Letters: Request letters from professors or mentors who can effectively highlight your academic performance, leadership skills, and unique qualities.
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Stay Organized and Respect Deadlines: Maintain a detailed schedule of scholarship deadlines and requirements to ensure every application is submitted promptly and accurately.
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Build Meaningful Connections: Engage with professors, scholars, and professionals in your field. Attend conferences, webinars, and networking events to uncover scholarship opportunities.
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Showcase Achievements and Ambitions: Highlight both academic and extracurricular accomplishments while clearly articulating your long-term goals in applications.
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Perfect Your Application Materials: Prepare your transcripts, essays, and statement of purpose meticulously, ensuring they meet each scholarship’s specific criteria and standards.
In conclusion
Lastly, after carefully reviewing the available scholarships for international students in USA, it is important to note that some awards are exclusively merit based while others focus on financial need. Each scholarship comes with specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet to qualify.
Beyond funding, the United States remains a global hub for world-class universities, offering unparalleled academic opportunities across diverse fields of study. While tuition fees can be significant, scholarships for international students in USA provide a pathway to access top-tier education without compromising financial stability.
With thoughtful planning, preparation, and determination, these opportunities can transform your academic journey and open doors to a successful global career. As you set your sights on studying in the USA, remember that the right scholarship not only eases financial burdens but also empowers you to fully embrace the educational and cultural experiences that await.
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