Scholarship Options for International Students Studying In the US

Your guide to funding study in America as an international student!

The United States remains one of the most popular destinations for international students, offering world-renowned institutions, diverse programmes, and an immersive academic environment. However, the cost of studying in the US can be a barrier for many. 

Fortunately, there is a wide range of scholarships available specifically for international students. Whether you are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate study, seeking funding for a specific subject area, or applying from a particular country or region, there may be options available to support your studies.

Below is a curated list of US scholarships and fellowships for international students, including government programmes, institutional aid, and private awards. 

Government-Funded US Scholarships for International Students

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program
• One of the most prestigious US government scholarships, Fulbright offers funding for graduate students, young professionals, and artists from over 160 countries to study or conduct research in the United States. It covers tuition, living expenses, and travel. Note that Fulbright does not fund medical studies.
• Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
• A non-degree program for experienced professionals from designated countries. It focuses on leadership development, academic coursework, and professional collaboration at host US universities.

Non-Governmental and University-Specific Scholarships

• #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship
• Available at over 50 participating US institutions, this scholarship supports international students from any academic background who demonstrate leadership skills and a commitment to intercultural exchange. Applicants must submit an essay or video as part of their application.
• Civil Society Leadership Awards
• Fully funded scholarships for master's degree students who demonstrate a commitment to social change. The awards are for students from eligible countries who wish to pursue graduate studies in the US.
• Rotary Peace Fellowships
• Each year, Rotary Peace Fellowships are awarded to dedicated leaders seeking to pursue a master's degree at one of their Rotary Peace Centers. The fellowships cover tuition, fees, room and board, transportation, and internship and field-study expenses.

Private and Special Interest Scholarships.

• Surfshark Privacy and Security Scholarship
• Open to high school, undergraduate, or graduate students of any nationality. Applicants must submit an essay on the topic of digital privacy. The scholarship prize is $2,000.
• Tortuga Backpacks Study Abroad Scholarship
• This scholarship is awarded twice a year to international students who are passionate about studying abroad. The award is valued at $1,000, plus a travel backpack.
• David P. Shapiro Autism Scholarship
• A $1,000 scholarship open to US-based students who have been diagnosed with autism. It supports current or prospective college students.

Regional and National Scholarships

For Asian Students

• East-West Center Scholarships and Fellowships
• Provides funding for students from the Asia-Pacific region to study at select US institutions.
• Japan–United States Friendship Commission
• A bilateral program offering grants to Japanese students studying in the US, focusing on arts, culture, and education.
• Wesleyan Freeman Asian Scholars Program
• Covers full tuition and fees for 11 exceptional Asian students attending Wesleyan University in Connecticut.

For Australian Students

• Fulbright Program (Australia)
• A scholarship program funded by the Australian-American Fulbright Commission. It offers opportunities for Australians to undertake research or study in the US across a wide range of disciplines and career stages.

Scholarships for Women

• AAUW International Fellowships
• These fellowships support women from outside the US who are pursuing full-time graduate or postgraduate study at accredited US institutions.
• Bat and Ball Game Women’s Sports Scholarship
• A $1,000 scholarship for women studying sports-related subjects at any US university.
• MIT-Zaragoza Women in Logistics and SCM Scholarship
• For female students interested in pursuing a Master’s in Supply Chain Management at MIT-Zaragoza in Spain or online. Open to students of all nationalities.

Scholarships for Students from Developing Countries

• Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme
• Provides postgraduate funding for students from select developing countries. The award is offered on a 50% grant, 50% loan basis.
• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
• Supports academically talented African students with financial need. The program offers full scholarships and leadership training in partnership with universities in the US and Africa.
• International Scholarships for Developing Countries
• A curated list of scholarships targeting students from developing nations. This resource lists government, university-based, and private scholarships for students seeking to study in the US.

Application Tips

• Start early – Many US scholarship deadlines close 8–12 months before your intended programme start date.
• Tailor your applications – Reflect the mission of each scholarship in your essays or statements.
• Prepare your documents carefully – A well-written personal statement or essay can set you apart.
• Stay organised – Create a spreadsheet to track deadlines, eligibility, required documents, and contacts.

There are a range of scholarships available for international students, depending on country or subject, so before applying, be sure to check online to see what options are available for your specific criteria.