Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in the USA 2024 – Submit Application Now

Top Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in the USA

Here are some of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships available to international students wishing to study in the United States:

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program:
   • The Fulbright Program is one of the most well-known and prestigious scholarships globally, offering opportunities for graduate students, young professionals, and artists to study and conduct research in the U.S.
   • Eligibility: Open to participants from over 160 countries worldwide.
   • Coverage: The scholarship covers tuition, airfare, a living stipend, health insurance, and other expenses.
   • Application Process: Applicants must apply through the Fulbright Commission/Foundation or U.S. Embassy in their home country.
2. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program:
   • This scholarship is aimed at students from developing countries who wish to pursue a master’s degree in development-related fields at selected universities in the U.S. and other countries.
   • Eligibility: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and at least three years of related work experience.
   • Coverage: Full tuition, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and other benefits.
   • Application Process: Interested candidates must apply directly through the program’s official website.
3. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program:
   • The Humphrey Fellowship is a non-degree program that brings mid-career professionals from developing countries to the U.S. for a year of professional development and academic enrichment.
   • Eligibility: Professionals with leadership potential and a commitment to public service.
   • Coverage: Tuition, living allowance, insurance, travel expenses, and professional development activities.
   • Application Process: Applications are submitted through U.S. Embassies or Fulbright Commissions in the applicant’s home country.
4. 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 graduate and postgraduate studies at accredited U.S. institutions.
   • Eligibility: Women who demonstrate a commitment to the advancement of women and girls.
   • Coverage: The fellowship provides funding ranging from $18,000 to $30,000, which can be used for tuition, living expenses, and dependent child care.
   • Application Process: Applicants must submit an application through the AAUW’s online portal.
5. The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University:
   • The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program is one of the largest fully funded scholarship programs in the U.S., attracting top students from around the world to pursue graduate studies at Stanford University.
   • Eligibility: Open to all students, regardless of citizenship, who meet the eligibility requirements for the Stanford graduate program they wish to enter.
   • Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, academic expenses, and travel costs.
   • Application Process: Candidates must apply to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program and separately to their chosen Stanford graduate program.
6. The Gates Scholarship:
   • Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, The Gates Scholarship is a highly selective scholarship for outstanding minority high school seniors in the U.S. The program awards scholarships for the full cost of attendance that is not already covered by other financial aid and the expected family contribution.
   • Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents who are Pell-eligible and belong to one of the following minority groups: African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American.
   • Coverage: Covers the full cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, board, books, and transportation.
   • Application Process: Students must apply during their senior year of high school through the Gates Scholarship portal.
7. Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) Program:
   • The YYGS program is an academic enrichment program for high school students from around the world. It provides a fully funded opportunity to study at Yale University, participate in seminars, and engage with leading faculty.
   • Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors from around the world.
   • Coverage: The scholarship covers tuition, travel, and living expenses.
   • Application Process: Students must submit an application, including essays, recommendations, and academic transcripts, through the YYGS website.

Tips for Applying for Fully Funded Scholarships

Applying for fully funded scholarships can be competitive, so it’s essential to approach the process strategically. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

1. Start Early:
   • Scholarship applications often have early deadlines, so start researching and preparing your application materials well in advance. Begin gathering documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores as soon as possible.
2. Tailor Your Application:
   • Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria and selection criteria. Tailor your application to highlight how you meet these criteria, and be sure to include relevant experiences, achievements, and goals.
3. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement:
   • Your personal statement or essay is a critical component of your application. Use this opportunity to tell your story, explain your motivation for pursuing higher education, and demonstrate how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
4. Seek Strong Letters of Recommendation:
   • Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, character, and potential. Provide them with information about the scholarship and your goals to help them write a strong, tailored recommendation.
5. Stay Organized:
   • Keep track of deadlines, required documents, and application instructions for each scholarship. Create a checklist to ensure you complete all the necessary steps on time.
6. Prepare for Interviews:
   • Some scholarships require an interview as part of the selection process. Practice answering common interview questions and be prepared to discuss your academic interests, career goals, and reasons for applying for the scholarship.
7. Apply to Multiple Scholarships:
   • Don’t limit yourself to just one scholarship. Apply to as many relevant scholarships as possible to increase your chances of receiving financial aid.

Which university offers 100% scholarships in the USA?

Several universities in the USA offer full or 100% scholarships to exceptional international students. These scholarships typically cover tuition, fees, room, board, and sometimes even travel and personal expenses. Here are some universities known for offering such scholarships: