The United States remains one of the most sought-after destinations for higher education, attracting students from across the globe with its prestigious universities and diverse academic programs. However, the cost of education in the US can be prohibitive for many international students. Fortunately, numerous scholarships are available to help offset these expenses. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the top scholarships for international students for the 2024-2025 academic year.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships globally, offering full funding for international students to pursue a Master’s or Ph.D. degree in the US. The program covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and health insurance. It aims to foster mutual understanding between nations and supports students from over 160 countries.
2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program provides mid-career professionals from designated countries with an opportunity to enhance their leadership skills through a non-degree program. The fellowship covers tuition, fees, living allowance, and travel expenses. It is intended for professionals committed to public service in their countries.
3. Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
This scholarship is open to students from developing countries who are enrolling in development-related programs. The scholarship covers tuition, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and travel allowance. It is a collaborative effort between the World Bank and the Government of Japan to support future leaders in development fields.
4. AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers International Fellowships for women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies in the US. The fellowship amounts vary from $18,000 to $30,000 and are awarded to women who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and a commitment to the advancement of women and girls.
5. PEO International Peace Scholarship
The PEO International Peace Scholarship Fund provides scholarships for women from countries other than the US and Canada who are pursuing graduate study in the US. The maximum amount awarded to a student is $12,500. This scholarship aims to promote peace and understanding through education.
6. Clark University Scholarships
Clark University offers several merit-based scholarships for international students, including the Global Scholars Program. This program provides scholarships ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 per year, along with a guaranteed $2,500 taxable stipend for a paid internship or research assistantship.
7. The University of Oregon Scholarships
The University of Oregon offers the International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) Scholarship, which awards tuition-waiver scholarships of up to 15 credits per term to selected students who demonstrate financial need and exceptional merit. Recipients perform 80 hours per year of cultural service as part of the scholarship.
8. Harvard University Scholarships
Harvard University offers need-based financial aid to international students, ensuring that all admitted students can afford their education regardless of their financial background. The Harvard Financial Aid Initiative provides comprehensive support that can cover tuition, room, and board based on the family’s financial situation.
9. Amherst College Scholarships
Amherst College follows a need-blind admission policy for international students, meaning that a student’s financial need does not affect their admission decision. Once admitted, Amherst meets 100% of the demonstrated financial need of all students through scholarships, grants, and student employment.
10. Yale University Scholarships
Yale University offers a need-based financial aid program for international students, similar to its program for US students. The Yale Scholarship can vary from a few hundred dollars to over $70,000 per year, depending on the student’s financial need.
The availability of scholarships makes the dream of studying in the US a reality for many international students. These scholarships not only provide financial assistance but also open doors to a wealth of opportunities for academic and personal growth. Prospective students should carefully research and apply to the scholarships that best fit their academic goals and financial needs for the 2024-2025 academic year.