Top Scholarships in the USA for International Students (2025 Guide)
Scholarships in the USA for international students are more accessible than ever in 2025. From fully funded fellowships to need-based undergraduate support, these programs make studying in the United States possible — even for students with limited financial resources.
In this guide, you’ll discover the top scholarships in the USA for international students, what they cover, who can apply, and how to improve your chances of getting selected.
🥇 1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships in the world — available to international students in over 160 countries.
✅ What it covers:
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Full tuition
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Living expenses
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Airfare
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Health insurance
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Cultural enrichment activities
🔍 Who can apply:
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Graduate-level students (Master’s or PhD)
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Strong academic record
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Leadership potential
🥈 2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
This is a non-degree scholarship designed for experienced professionals looking to enhance their skills and leadership.
✅ What it includes:
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Full funding for academic training
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Living allowance
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Networking opportunities
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Leadership development
🔍 Eligibility:
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Minimum 5 years of work experience
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Strong English skills
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Demonstrated commitment to public service
👩🎓 3. AAUW International Fellowships (Women Only)
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers graduate and postdoctoral fellowships to women from outside the U.S.
✅ Award Amounts:
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Master’s: $20,000
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Doctoral: $25,000
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Postdoctoral: $50,000
🔍 Requirements:
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Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
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Strong academic background
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Commitment to advancing equity for women and girls
🏫 4. Clark Global Scholarship Program
Clark University offers generous scholarships to international first-year undergraduate applicants.
✅ What it includes:
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$15,000 to $25,000 per year
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Additional financial aid based on need
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Renewable for up to four years
🔍 Who can apply:
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First-year undergraduate applicants
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Academic excellence and leadership potential
🌍 5. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)
Although a joint initiative, many recipients study in the USA in development-related master’s programs.
✅ What it covers:
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Tuition
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Monthly living stipend
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Round-trip airfare
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Health insurance
🔍 Eligibility:
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Bachelor’s degree
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From a World Bank member developing country
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Relevant work experience in development
🏛️ 6. Yale University Scholarships
Yale offers need-based financial aid to both domestic and international students, making a Yale education surprisingly affordable.
✅ What it offers:
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Awards range from a few thousand to over $70,000/year
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Average award is $50,000/year
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Covers tuition, housing, and more
📌 Where to Find More Scholarships in the USA
Here are top websites to search for more scholarships in the USA for international students:
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Individual university websites (check financial aid sections)
🧠 Pro Tips for Getting Selected
✅ Start Early
Most U.S. scholarships have deadlines between October and February.
✅ Customize Your Essays
Tailor each application to highlight your goals and how they align with the scholarship’s mission.
✅ Emphasize Impact
Many scholarships reward students who want to bring change to their home country.
✅ Get Strong Recommendations
Ask teachers, employers, or mentors who know you well to write meaningful letters.
💬 Final Thoughts
There are dozens of scholarships in the USA for international students, and many go unclaimed simply because students don’t apply or don’t know they exist.
With the right preparation and early action, you can reduce or even eliminate your tuition costs — and achieve your dream of studying in the United States.
Don’t wait. Start applying today!
