1. Fulbright Scholarship Program
The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious U.S. government-sponsored scholarships. It offers fully funded opportunities for graduate students, young professionals, and artists to study, conduct research, or teach abroad. Administered by the U.S. Department of State, the scholarship covers tuition, travel, living stipend, and health insurance. Each year, students from over 160 countries benefit from this program.Who Can Apply: Graduate students, professionals, and researchers.
Coverage: Tuition, airfare, living allowance, and health insurance.
2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
The Humphrey Fellowship is another initiative funded by the U.S. government for mid-career professionals from developing countries. It provides a non-degree program that focuses on leadership development and professional collaboration with U.S. institutions.Who Can Apply: Mid-career professionals with leadership potential.
Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, travel costs, and professional development.
3. The Gates Scholarship
Founded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly competitive, last-dollar award for outstanding, low-income, minority high school seniors in the U.S. It provides full financial support throughout undergraduate studies.Who Can Apply: U.S. citizens, high school seniors from minority backgrounds.
Coverage: Full cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, housing, and books.
4. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University)
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University offers full funding to the world’s best students to pursue graduate degrees across all disciplines at Stanford. The program focuses on leadership development, interdisciplinary education, and global collaboration.Who Can Apply: Graduate students from all countries.
Coverage: Full tuition, stipend, academic expenses, and travel allowance.
5. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is designed for high-achieving international students who wish to pursue an undergraduate degree in the United States. It aims to promote diversity and leadership in global communities.Who Can Apply: International students committed to positive civic and social change.
Coverage: Full tuition, room, and board (excluding non-billable expenses).
6. AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers scholarships to women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies in the U.S. These fellowships support women who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to improving the lives of women and girls.Who Can Apply: Non-U.S. women pursuing graduate or postdoctoral studies.
Coverage: $20,000–$50,000 depending on degree level.
7. Yale University Scholarships
Yale University provides need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate students. International students are equally eligible for financial assistance based on demonstrated need.Who Can Apply: Domestic and international undergraduate/graduate students.
Coverage: Up to full tuition and living costs based on financial need.
8. Harvard University Scholarships
Harvard offers generous financial aid packages to both domestic and international students. The university ensures that admitted students can afford education regardless of their financial background.Who Can Apply: Undergraduate and graduate students demonstrating financial need.
Coverage: Up to 100% tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
9. Rotary Peace Fellowship
The Rotary Peace Fellowship supports graduate-level studies for students committed to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and global development. Fellows study at select partner universities in the U.S. and abroad.Who Can Apply: Professionals with experience in peace and development work.
Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, travel, and field-study costs.
10. Obama Foundation Scholars Program
Hosted by universities such as Columbia University and the University of Chicago, the Obama Foundation Scholars Program brings together emerging leaders from around the world to study and develop solutions to global challenges.Who Can Apply: Emerging leaders from around the world with proven community impact.
Coverage: Full tuition, housing, travel, and a living stipend.
Final Thoughts
The United States offers countless opportunities for students to pursue higher education with financial support. Whether you’re an undergraduate seeking your first degree or a graduate student aiming for research or leadership excellence, these top U.S. scholarships provide a pathway to success.
To increase your chances of winning a scholarship:
- Start your application early.
- Focus on your academic excellence and community involvement.
- Prepare strong recommendation letters and personal statements.
Advertisement