Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in USA
Studying in the United States is a dream for countless international students, but the high cost of education often stops them from achieving it. Fortunately, numerous opportunities exist to make this goal achievable.
After exploring a variety of scholarships tailored for international students, we’ve curated a list of the best fully funded scholarships available, designed to make studying in the United States more accessible.
1. Yale University
Yale University, established in 1701, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the U.S. Located in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale offers a diverse range of programs across its 14 schools.
The university is renowned not only for its academic rigor but also for its vibrant campus life, filled with a wealth of cultural activities and extracurricular activities that enrich the student experience.
- Scholarship: Yale University Scholarships
- Coverage: Varies widely; many students receive substantial support covering tuition, living costs, and health insurance.
- Eligibility: Need-based financial aid available for undergraduate and graduate students.
2. Stanford University
Stanford University, located in California’s renowned Silicon Valley, offers fully funded scholarships to support undergraduate and graduate students pursuing excellence. With a rich history dating back to 1885, the university spans an impressive 8,180-acre campus and is home to more than 7,000 undergraduate students and 9,000 graduate students.
Known for its academic excellence and innovation, Stanford consistently ranks as one of the top universities globally, producing numerous Nobel laureates and successful entrepreneurs.
- Scholarship: Stanford University Scholarships
- Coverage: Fully funded for tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and travel allowances.
- Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students with excellent academic merit and financial need.
3. Duke University
Duke University, founded in 1838 and situated in Durham, North Carolina, is renowned for its strong programs in law, business, medicine, and public policy. Combining rigorous academics with a vibrant campus life, it offers international students an exceptional environment for both professional and personal growth.
- Scholarship: Karsh International Scholarship
- Coverage: Full tuition and living expenses.
- Eligibility: For international undergraduate students with outstanding academic records.
4. Columbia University
Columbia University, established in 1754 and located in the heart of New York City, is a distinguished member of the Ivy League, celebrated for its rigorous academics and a diverse student body.
The university offers a wide array of programs spanning various disciplines, making it an ideal destination for international students seeking world-class education and opportunities.
- Scholarship: Columbia University Scholarships
- Coverage: Merit-based scholarships that can cover full tuition for qualifying students.
- Eligibility: Open to both undergraduate and graduate students based on academic performance.
5. University of Chicago
The University of Chicago, established in 1890, is celebrated for its rigorous academic programs and dedication to fostering critical thinking. With a strong emphasis on research across various fields, it provides an intellectually stimulating environment for students seeking innovative and interdisciplinary learning opportunities.
- Scholarship: The Stamps Scholarship
- Coverage: Full tuition, room and board, plus an enrichment fund.
- Eligibility: Awarded to high-achieving undergraduate students demonstrating leadership qualities.
6. Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University, founded in 1873 and located in Nashville, Tennessee, is renowned for its strong academic programs and a vibrant campus life.
It offers a wide variety of undergraduate programs and graduate programs across various fields, including education, engineering, and business, making it a leading choice for international students seeking both academic rigor and a dynamic campus experience.
- Scholarship: Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship
- Coverage: Full tuition plus a stipend for summer study abroad or research experiences.
- Eligibility: Awarded based on academic achievement and leadership potential.
7. Brandeis University
Brandeis University, established in 1948 and located in Waltham, Massachusetts, is a distinguished private research university that balances a commitment to social justice with a dedication to academic excellence.
- Scholarship: Wien International Scholarship Program
- Coverage: Full tuition waiver.
- Eligibility: For high-achieving international students committed to community service.
8. Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Tech, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a renowned institution famous for its cutting-edge engineering and technology programs. Since its founding in 1885, it has established itself as a leading research university, with a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship.
This dynamic environment creates numerous opportunities for students, especially those interested in pursuing a career in these rapidly evolving fields, offering a transformative education and research experience.
- Scholarship: Stamps President’s Scholars Program
- Coverage: Full tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, and $15,000 in enrichment funding.
- Eligibility: Awarded to top students showing leadership and service dedication.
9. Boston University
Boston University (BU), a private research university located in Boston, Massachusetts, was founded in 1839 and is renowned for its wide range of undergraduate programs and graduate programs.
The university offers an engaging and dynamic learning environment with a vibrant campus community and numerous diverse student organizations that contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.
- Scholarship: Presidential Scholarship
- Coverage: Up to $25,000 per year.
- Eligibility: For incoming first-year students with outstanding academic records.
10. Clark University
Clark University, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, is widely known for its dedication to liberal arts education and a strong emphasis on research.
Since its establishment in 1887, the university has continuously offered a range of undergraduate programs that prioritize experiential learning, allowing students to gain practical knowledge alongside theoretical concepts. With a clear focus on creating an enriching academic experience, Clark fosters a well-rounded environment for students to thrive in.
- Scholarship: Clark Global Scholarship Program
- Coverage: $15,000 to $25,000 per year.
- Eligibility: For first-year international undergraduate students demonstrating strong academic performance.
How to Improve Your Chances of Securing a Scholarship?
To improve your chances of securing a scholarship, a well-thought-out strategic approach is essential. Start with thorough research to identify relevant opportunities that align with your academic goals and personal background.
Begin your preparation early and create a well-organized system to help you track deadlines, eligibility criteria, and required materials for each application. Customizing your essays to reflect the mission and values of the scholarship is crucial—ensure that your essays highlight relevant experiences that resonate with the scholarship’s criteria.
Seek feedback from teachers and mentors to help you refine your essays, ensuring they are polished and error-free. Secure strong references to speak positively about your qualifications, which will significantly enhance your application. Applying to multiple scholarships, both large and small awards, increases your chances of receiving funding for your education. A dedicated and organized approach will significantly improve the likelihood of success in the scholarship application process.