If you’re an international student aiming to study in the United States, you might be curious scholarship opportunities available to you. Thankfully, there is an extensive range of scholarships tailored specifi cally to international students who wish to study in the States.
This guide explore five premier scholarships in the U.S. that international students should consider.
The United States is home to several premier institutions for higher learning, providing substantial scholarships designed to support the educational pursuits of students from abroad. Below, you will find a list of five leading scholarships in the U.S. that are worth considering for international students.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is a global educational exchange initiative funded by the U.S. government. This program awards scholarships to international students enabling them to undertake graduate-level studies, engage in research, and participate in teaching opportunities across the United States.
This program operates under auspices of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau Educational and Cultural Affairs (CA) and receives its funding from both the U.S. government and cooperating countries worldwide. Globally, the program is managed by 54 Bi-National Fulbright Commissions/Foundations or through U.S. Embassies in various countries.
Scholarships are awarded to graduate students, emerging professionals, and artists from across the globe to conduct research, pursue studies, or teach in the U.S. for one academic year. Selection criteria include academic merit, leadership capabilities, and a dedication to fostering mutual understanding among cultures.
The program covers round-trip airfare to the U.S., living expenses for the study period, tuition, fees, textbooks, health insurance, as well as funds for language courses (when needed), an initial settling-in grant, pre-academic orientation (if required), and other applicable allowances.
To qualify for this opportunity, candidates must be nationals of a country participating in the Fulbright program, hold at least a bachelor’s degree, demonstrate proficiency in English, maintain an excellent academic record, exhibit leadership qualities, and show a commitment to cultural exchange.
For more information: Fulbright Foreign Student Program
2. Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program
The Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program represents a remarkable opportunity for mid-level professionals from emerging and developing nations to acquire valuable experience in the U.S and enhance their professional capabilities. This yearly sponsorship, backed by the U.S. Department of State and managed by the Institute of International Education, enriches fellows with hands-on exposure in their respective fields.
Selection criteria for candidates focus on leadership potential within their professions, dedication to public service, and fostering understanding between their home nations and the U.S. The initiative covers all associated costs including academic fees, books, travel, and living expenditures.
Successful applicants are hosted at American universities or research centers, where they engage in specialized courses related to their expertise. Through internships, these professionals not only gain practical skills but also establish valuable connections within their sectors.
The selection process for this fellowship is rigorous, requiring candidates to possess at least five years of professional experience in their domain, citizenship of a participating country, a proven commitment to public service, and a robust academic foundation. Additionally, they need to provide recommendation letters, a personal essay, and a proposal for a research project or plan.
For more information: Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program
3. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, established through a collaboration with Stanford University and generously funded by philanthropists John A. and Susan Sobrato, along with business magnate Philip H. Knight, aims to assist up to 100 outstanding students yearly who are pursuing advanced degrees at Stanford University.
This initiative is sustained by a substantial endowment of $750 million and aims to draw the most exceptional talents globally to Stanford’s Graduate School of Business and its other academic divisions.
Financial backing from the program covers three to four years of postgraduate study and living expenses, encompassing tuition, fees, a living allowance, plus allowances for global travel and professional growth activities. Scholars benefit from career advice, professional development opportunities, and mentorship provided by faculty, staff, and alumni.
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program welcomes candidates from any country and diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the creation of a varied cohort of Scholars. Selection criteria focus on leadership capabilities, scholarly achievements, dedication to service, the ability for self-directed study, and the capacity to engage deeply with an intellectually challenging academic environment.
For more information: Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
4. Rotary Peace Fellowship
Rotary International’s Rotary Peace Fellowship is accessible to individuals across the globe who are dedicated to peace. This initiative includes educational programs, training sessions, and professional growth exercises in the areas of peacekeeping and conflict management.
Every year, the Rotary Peace Fellowship grants as many as 50 fellowships to candidates abroad who are actively engaged in the promotion of peace and mutual understanding. Scholars will study at one of three, participating in two-year programs in the United States or one-year programs in Sweden and Japan. The fellowship encompasses full tuition, room and board, round-trip travel costs, and all expenses related to internships and field studies.
The application process for this fellowship is stringent and demands the demonstration of an outstanding academic background and extensive experience in the relevant professional field. Prospective fellows should be endorsed by two credible referees and must exhibit robust leadership qualities and the necessary linguistic proficiency to undertake studies in a foreign country.
Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in a pertinent field such as international relations, public management, or policy science, and show a deep-seated dedication to the domains of peace and conflict resolution.
For more information: Rotary Peace Fellowship
5. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is a highly respected award aimed at international students who exhibit leadership qualities, academic prowess, and a dedication to serving others. The scholarship is provided through the School of International Service at American University and seeks to draw exceptionally talented students from around the globe to its campus.
This scholarship offers a full financial package and an opportunity to significantly impact the international community. It is granted for a duration of up to four years, renewable each semester for a total of eight semesters. Recipients of this scholarship must uphold a minimum 3.0 GPA to continue their eligibility.
Complete coverage of tuition, accommodation, meals, and assorted fees at American University are included in the scholarship. Beneficiaries also receive an allowance for housing and a budget to cover expenses such as textbooks, materials, and travel.
Candidates for the Emerging Global Leader Scholarship need to have achieved at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale and must have scored a minimum of 600 on the SAT or 26 on the ACT. Additionally, they must show a robust commitment to international service and potential for leadership.
For more information: American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
These five premier scholarships in the U.S. offer international students a chance to undertake their educational pursuits in the United States, equipping them with essential knowledge and skills to thrive as global leaders. These scholarships are each highly sought after and provide opportunities for international students to study in the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some top scholarships available for international students in the USA?
Some of the top available for international students include the Ful Foreign Student Program, United World Colleges International Youthships, the Rotary International Peace Fellowships, the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, and the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program.
Who is eligible for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program?
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is open to graduate students, young professionals, and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the United States. Eligibility varies by country, so it’s important to check the specific requirements for your country.
Can undergraduate students apply for any scholarships on this list?
Yes, undergraduate students can apply for the United World Colleges International Youth Scholarships, which focus on helping high-school students from around the globe attend United World Colleges located in several countries, including the USA.
What kind of support does the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program provide?
This program provides comprehensive support which includes tuition fees, accommodation, books, and other scholastic materials, as well as access to mentoring, counseling, and internship opportunities.
What are the academic requirements to apply for these scholarships?
Academic requirements vary by scholarship. Generally, a strong academic record is essential. Specific GPA requirements, if applicable, can be found on each scholarship’s official website or by contacting the scholarship provider directly.