Pursuing a higher education in the USA can be both a rewarding and expensive endeavor for international students. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships available that can significantly ease the financial burden. This article will explore some of the top scholarships for international students who are aiming to pursue degrees in the USA.
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
One of the most prestigious scholarships available to international students is the Fulbright Foreign Student Program. Sponsored by the U.S. government, the Fulbright Program offers scholarships to students from around the world to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Recipients of this scholarship benefit from full tuition coverage, a living stipend, and health insurance, making it financially viable for students from diverse backgrounds to study in the USA.
Aker Scholarship for International Students, 2018
Another invaluable resource for international students is the Aker Scholarship. Established by the Norwegian industrialist and philanthropist Kjell Inge Røkke, the Aker Scholarship aims to support talented students from Norway and other countries to pursue advanced degrees at top universities in the USA and the UK. Although this scholarship was established in 2018, it continues to provide full tuition and living expenses, making it an attractive option for those aiming for elite educational institutions.
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is designed for students from developing countries who wish to pursue a degree in development-related fields. This scholarship supports students in obtaining master’s degrees at various universities in the USA and other major countries. The program covers tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance. This scholarship makes it easier for students to return to their home countries equipped with the knowledge and skills to contribute to development.
$750 Youth Volunteer Service Scholarship in Norway, 2025
While the $750 Youth Volunteer Service Scholarship in Norway is distinct in that it provides support for volunteer service rather than academic study, it is still an excellent resource for students with an international perspective. This scholarship, which will be available starting in 2025, encourages young individuals to engage in volunteer work in Norway and develop leadership skills. While not directly applicable to studying in the USA, volunteer experience can strengthen scholarship applications and CVs for further academic opportunities abroad.
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
Geared towards mid-career professionals, the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program offers full scholarships for non-degree study at various American universities. This fellowship encourages professional development through practical work, academic studies, and networking. Participants gain valuable experience that can be directly applied in their home countries, and the program offers full coverage for tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
The American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (AU EGLS) is designed for high-achieving international students who demonstrate leadership potential and are committed to making a positive impact in their home countries. This scholarship covers all billable expenses including full tuition, room, and board. The AU EGLS is ideal for students who are not only academically exceptional but are also passionate about promoting civic and social change.
Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University is another prominent scholarship for international students. This program provides full funding to pursue any graduate degree at Stanford, including master’s, PhD, or joint-degree programs. In addition to financial support, scholars are offered leadership training, mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities. The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program aims to develop a community of future global leaders.
Rotary Peace Fellowships
Rotary Peace Fellowships are designed for professionals who want to pursue a graduate degree focused on peace and conflict resolution. These fellowships cover tuition, living expenses, and other academic costs, and are available at selected universities around the world, including the USA. The program equips fellows with the skills needed to promote peace and resolve conflicts, making it a valuable opportunity for those committed to global peace.
Gates Millennium Scholars Program
Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Millennium Scholars Program is one of the most comprehensive scholarships available to international students. It aims to provide outstanding minority students with an opportunity to complete their undergraduate education at any U.S. college or university. The scholarship covers tuition, fees, books, and living expenses, thereby removing financial barriers to education for students from underrepresented communities.
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships support Indian students who wish to study in the United States. These scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and one-way travel expenses. They are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and are pursuing degrees in a variety of fields including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers International Fellowships to women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents. These fellowships support full-time graduate or postgraduate study in the United States and cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. The AAUW aims to advance educational and professional opportunities for women worldwide.
Summary
In conclusion, numerous scholarships are available to international students pursuing degrees in the USA. From the Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the Aker Scholarship to the Gates Millennium Scholars Program and the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, these scholarships provide essential financial support and open doors to some of the world’s best academic institutions. Additional scholarships such as the JJ/WBGSP, $750 Youth Volunteer Service Scholarship in Norway, and AAUW International Fellowships offer diverse opportunities tailored to various fields of study and career aspirations. By exploring these options, international students can significantly reduce the financial barriers to achieving their educational and professional goals in the USA.
