Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students, but the high cost of tuition and living expenses can often feel overwhelming. The good news? There are plenty of scholarships available to help international students make their study-abroad goals more affordable.
From government-funded programs to university-specific grants and private foundations, scholarships can significantly reduce your financial burden and open doors to world-class education.
Here’s a list of the top scholarships for international students in the US that you should know about.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
One of the most prestigious scholarships in the world, the Fulbright Program offers funding to international students for graduate studies and research in the US. It covers tuition, airfare, health insurance, and a living stipend.
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Level: Master’s and PhD
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Covers: Full tuition, living costs, travel, health insurance
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Who Can Apply: Students from over 160 countries
2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
This fellowship is designed for professionals from developing countries who want to enhance their leadership skills through non-degree academic study and professional experiences in the US.
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Level: Non-degree (professional development)
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Covers: Tuition fees, living allowance, health insurance, travel
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Focus Areas: Public policy, human rights, education, sustainable development
3. AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) provides scholarships for women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies in the US.
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Level: Master’s, PhD, Postdoctoral
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Covers: $20,000–$50,000 depending on the level of study
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Who Can Apply: Women from any country except the US
4. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
This program supports students from developing countries who want to pursue graduate studies in fields related to economic development.
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Level: Master’s degree
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Covers: Tuition, monthly living stipend, airfare, health insurance
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Who Can Apply: Citizens of World Bank member developing countries
5. Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford University
One of the most generous scholarships in the US, this program supports students across all disciplines at Stanford University.
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Level: Master’s and PhD
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Covers: Full tuition, living stipend, travel grant
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Highlights: Leadership development training, mentorship, and global networking
6. Yale University Scholarships
Yale offers need-based financial aid to international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Awards can range from a few thousand dollars to full coverage depending on financial need.
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Level: Undergraduate, Graduate
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Covers: Partial to full tuition + living expenses
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Who Can Apply: All international applicants admitted to Yale
7. University of Oregon International Student Scholarships
The University of Oregon offers scholarships to international students based on academic merit and financial need.
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Level: Undergraduate, Graduate
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Covers: $7,500–$30,000 per year
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Who Can Apply: International students with strong academic records
8. Clark University Global Scholars Program
This program provides financial support and leadership opportunities to first-year international students.
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Level: Undergraduate
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Covers: $15,000–$25,000 per year (renewable for four years)
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Extras: A guaranteed $2,500 stipend for a paid internship or research assistantship
9. AAU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (American University, Washington, D.C.)
This award supports international students dedicated to positive civic and social change.
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Level: Undergraduate
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Covers: Full tuition, room, and board (not including other expenses)
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Who Can Apply: International students committed to leadership and service
10. Berea College Scholarships
Berea College is one of the few US institutions that provides 100% funding for international students for their first year of study.
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Level: Undergraduate
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Covers: Tuition, room, board, and fees for the first year (partial funding in following years)
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Who Can Apply: Students with strong academic and financial need
Tips for Applying to Scholarships
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Start Early – Many scholarships have deadlines 8–12 months before the academic year begins.
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Prepare Strong Essays – Scholarship committees often look beyond grades—they want to see leadership, vision, and impact.
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Get Recommendations – Strong reference letters from professors or employers can boost your application.
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Apply Widely – Don’t rely on just one scholarship; apply to multiple opportunities to increase your chances.
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Stay Organized – Keep track of deadlines, requirements, and documents with a spreadsheet or planner.
Final Thoughts
Funding your education in the United States may seem daunting, but scholarships make it possible for thousands of international students each year. Whether you’re aiming for a fully funded program like Fulbright or a partial tuition grant from a university, there are opportunities out there waiting for you.
With careful planning, persistence, and strong applications, you can reduce your financial burden and focus on what really matters—gaining knowledge, building experiences, and creating lifelong memories in the US.