Top 10 USA Scholarships for International Students in 2024

The USA remains one of the top destinations for international students, offering world-class education and numerous scholarship opportunities. Securing a scholarship can significantly ease the financial burden for international students. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to the top 10 USA scholarships available in 2024.

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships globally, providing fully funded scholarships to international students in over 155 countries. It covers tuition, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance for the duration of the study.

• Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing a master’s or PhD.
• Field of Study: Available for all academic fields except medicine.

2. Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

Administered by the World Bank and the Japanese government, this scholarship is aimed at students from developing countries who wish to study development-related fields.

• Eligibility: Citizens of World Bank member developing countries.
• Field of Study: Includes programs related to economic development, public policy, and more.
• Benefits: Covers tuition, travel, and living expenses.

3. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

This non-degree program is designed for mid-career professionals interested in bolstering their leadership skills. Participants take part in graduate-level academic courses and professional development activities.

• Eligibility: Professionals from developing countries with five years of work experience.
• Field of Study: Leadership and professional development across various sectors.
• Benefits: Full funding, including stipends, tuition fees, and travel expenses.

4. AAUW International Fellowships

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers fellowships to women pursuing full-time graduate or postgraduate study in the U.S.

• Eligibility: Women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
• Field of Study: All fields of study are eligible.
• Benefits: The award varies between $18,000 and $30,000, depending on the program level.

5. The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

Stanford University offers the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program to develop a multidisciplinary community of future global leaders.

• Eligibility: Open to students enrolling in any graduate program at Stanford.
• Field of Study: All disciplines.
• Benefits: Full funding for tuition, living expenses, and academic endeavors.

6. Yale Young Global Scholars Program

Although not a university scholarship, this highly selective program for pre-college students offers a unique opportunity to experience college life at Yale. Scholarships are available for students from low-income families.

• Eligibility: High school students from around the world.
• Field of Study: Various academic sessions including humanities, social sciences, and STEM.
• Benefits: Need-based financial aid is available.

7. PEO International Peace Scholarships

This program offers scholarships to women from outside the U.S. and Canada who are pursuing graduate studies in North America.

• Eligibility: Open to women from international countries.
• Field of Study: All fields of study.
• Benefits: Scholarships of up to $12,500 are awarded based on financial need.

8. Clark Global Scholarship Program

Clark University offers merit-based scholarships to international students. These scholarships are renewable for four years based on academic performance.

• Eligibility: First-year international students with excellent academic records.
• Field of Study: All undergraduate programs.
• Benefits: Scholarships range from $15,000 to $25,000 per year.

9. Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD)

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, this program offers scholarships to outstanding undergraduate students from around the world to study in the U.S.

• Eligibility: Undergraduate students from underrepresented backgrounds.
• Field of Study: Various academic fields.
• Benefits: Full tuition, travel, living stipends, and health insurance.

10. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships

This scholarship is targeted at students from India who want to pursue studies at top U.S. universities.

• Eligibility: Indian students applying for master’s or doctoral programs.
• Field of Study: Includes fields like arts, science, and humanities.
• Benefits: Full or partial tuition fees, along with living expenses and travel allowances.

Applying for USA Scholarships

General Eligibility Requirements

International students aiming to study in the USA need to meet several general criteria, including:

• Academic Excellence: High academic records and strong recommendations.
• English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS scores are usually required.
• Field of Study: Some scholarships are limited to specific fields, such as STEM or public policy.

Application Process

1. Research: Start early by researching scholarships suitable for your profile.
2. Prepare Documents: Most scholarships require transcripts, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency.
3. Apply: Submit applications before the deadlines, ensuring all requirements are fulfilled.
4. Follow-Up: Be prepared for interviews or additional steps in the selection process.

Common Challenges for International Students

Financial Constraints

While some scholarships cover full tuition, others provide partial funding. It’s essential to have a financial plan in place for any remaining costs, including living expenses.

Visa Application

International students must navigate the visa process, which often requires proof of admission and sufficient financial resources.