The United States is a popular destination for international students seeking high-quality education. However, the cost can be prohibitive. To assist with this, many scholarships are available specifically for international students. Here are the top 10 scholarships currently available:
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
Description: The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships, offering opportunities for students from over 155 countries to pursue Master’s or Ph.D. degrees in the United States. The program covers tuition, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees
- Airfare
- Living stipend
- Health insurance
Eligibility:
- Applicants must have completed their undergraduate education and have a strong academic record.
- Proficiency in English.
- Demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to improving cross-cultural relations.
Application Link: Fulbright Foreign Student Program
2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
Description: This program provides ten months of non-degree academic study and related professional experiences in the United States. It is intended for experienced professionals interested in strengthening their leadership skills.
Benefits:
- Tuition and fees
- Living allowance
- Accident and health insurance
- Travel expenses
Eligibility:
- An undergraduate degree.
- A minimum of five years of substantial professional experience.
- Demonstrated leadership qualities and a record of public service.
Application Link: Humphrey Fellowship Program
3. AAUW International Fellowships
Description: The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers International Fellowships for full-time study or research in the United States to women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Benefits:
- Master’s/first professional degree: $18,000
- Doctoral: $20,000
- Postdoctoral: $30,000
Eligibility:
- Applicants must have earned the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
- Must intend to return to their home country to pursue a professional career.
- Proficiency in English.
Application Link: AAUW International Fellowships
4. The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Description: This scholarship is available to students from developing countries who have relevant professional experience and a history of supporting their countries’ development efforts. The program enables students to pursue development-related courses in the USA.
Benefits:
- Tuition
- Monthly living stipend
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
Eligibility:
- Must be a national of a World Bank member developing country.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree.
- At least 3 years of relevant professional experience.
Application Link: Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
5. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program
Description: The Aga Khan Foundation provides a limited number of scholarships each year for postgraduate studies to outstanding students from developing countries who have no other means of financing their studies.
Benefits:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
Eligibility:
- Must be a resident in one of the countries where Aga Khan Foundations have their operations.
- Preference is given to students under 30 years of age.
Application Link: Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships
6. Rotary Peace Fellowships
Description: Rotary Peace Fellowships are awarded for Master’s degree programs and professional development certificate programs related to peace and conflict resolution at one of Rotary’s Peace Centers.
Benefits:
- Tuition and fees
- Room and board
- Round-trip transportation
Eligibility:
- Proficiency in English.
- Strong commitment to international understanding and peace.
- Excellent leadership skills.
Application Link: Rotary Peace Fellowships
7. Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
Description: This program annually awards up to 100 high-achieving students with full funding to pursue any graduate degree at Stanford University. Scholars are selected based on independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
Benefits:
- Full funding for tuition, stipend, graduate program, and related academic expenses.
Eligibility:
- Must apply to and be accepted by a full-time graduate degree program at Stanford.
- Demonstrated leadership and civic commitment.
Application Link: Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
8. Yale University Scholarships for International Students
Description: Yale offers various scholarships for international students based on need and merit. The Yale Scholarship can vary from a few hundred dollars to over $70,000 per year.
Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition fees
- Living expenses
Eligibility:
- Demonstrated financial need.
- Strong academic record.
Application Link: Yale Scholarships
9. University of Minnesota International Excellence Scholarships
Description: This scholarship is offered to incoming international students who are admitted as freshmen at the University of Minnesota. It is a merit-based scholarship awarded for outstanding academic performance.
Benefits:
- $25,000 per year for four years.
Eligibility:
- Must be an international student.
- Strong academic performance and standardized test scores.
Application Link: Minnesota International Scholarships
10. University of Oregon International Scholarships
Description: The University of Oregon offers various scholarships to international students, including the ICSP (International Cultural Service Program) scholarship, which requires recipients to complete cultural service hours.
Benefits:
- Tuition waiver scholarships ranging from $9,000 to $30,000 per year.
Eligibility:
- Must be an international student.
- Demonstrated financial need and merit.
Application Link: University of Oregon Scholarships
Conclusion
These scholarships provide significant financial support and valuable opportunities for international students to pursue higher education in the United States. Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria and application processes, so it’s crucial to carefully review the details and prepare your applications accordingly. For more information and to apply, visit the provided links. By securing one of these scholarships, you can take a significant step toward achieving your educational and professional goals in the USA.