There are numerous prestigious colleges and universities in the United States, and its diverse and multicultural environment makes it a prime destination for students all over the world. International students, however, may find the cost of education in the U.S. high. Students may pursue their education without the burden of heavy financial obligations thanks to numerous scholarships covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other related costs.
For international students, scholarships are available in 2024, providing a great opportunity to receive a world-class education. The following is a list of the top ten free scholarships for international students in the USA, their eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
International students can apply for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, one of the most prestigious scholarships available to them. A U.S. government program that offers full scholarships to graduate students, young professionals, and artists from around the world. An amount equivalent to the stipend and tuition, as well as airfare and health insurance, is paid by the scholarship.
• Eligibility: International students from over 160 countries.
• How to Apply: Applications are processed by U.S. embassies or Fulbright Commissions in each applicant’s home country. Depending on your country, deadlines may vary, so be sure to check with your local office.
2. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowships enhance the leadership skills of mid-career professionals from developing countries. The program does not lead to a degree, but fellows spend a year studying and participating in professional development activities in the United States.
• Eligibility: Mid-career professionals with at least five years of experience in their field.
U.S. embassies and Fulbright Commissions manage applications. The deadlines vary from country to country.
3. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University
Among the most generous scholarships for international students is the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University. Stanford provides full funding for graduate-level study at Stanford, including tuition, living expenses, and travel stipends. This is a leadership program designed for students with leadership potential, academic excellence, and a desire to make a positive impact on society.
• Eligibility: International students applying for a graduate program at Stanford.
• Application Process: You must apply to both Stanford’s graduate program and the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program. October is usually the deadline.
4. AAUW International Fellowships
International fellowships are available from the American Association of University Women to women who do not hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. Fellows receive fellowships to study or conduct research full-time at graduate or postgraduate levels.
• Eligibility: Women from countries outside the U.S. with a bachelor’s degree.
• How to Apply: Applications are submitted through the AAUW’s online portal, and the deadline is usually in December.
5. Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)
Scholarships funded by the Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program are available to students from developing countries who want to pursue graduate programs related to development. As part of the scholarship, you will be covered for tuition, living expenses, airfare, health insurance, and travel expenses.
• Eligibility: Citizens of developing countries who have completed a bachelor’s degree and have at least three years of experience in the development sector.
• How to Apply: Applicants must apply through a partner university. Depending on the institution, deadlines may differ.
6. Rotary Peace Fellowships
Some universities in the United States offer Rotary Peace Fellowships, which are fully funded opportunities for students to obtain master’s degrees in peace and conflict resolution. Tuition, accommodation, transportation, and internship expenses are covered by the scholarship.
Eligibility: Candidates must demonstrate experience and commitment to peacebuilding.
Applicants must apply through their local Rotary club. May is typically the deadline.
7. Yale Young Global Scholars Program (YYGS)
The Yale Young Global Scholars Program (YYGS) is a summer enrichment program for outstanding high school students from around the world. A full or partial scholarship for attendance at this prestigious program is offered by YYGS, though it is not a traditional college scholarship.
• Eligibility: High school students aged 16-17.
• How to Apply: Applications are submitted online, with financial aid offered to those in need. January is typically the deadline.
8. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
A scholarship program provided by the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation supports Indian students studying environmental studies, law, fine arts, and business at the graduate level in the U.S. Students receive tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and one-way airfare.
• Eligibility: Indian nationals under 30 with a first-class degree.
• How to Apply: Applications are submitted online, with deadlines typically in April.
9. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Students from Sub-Saharan Africa studying at select U.S. universities can apply for scholarships through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. There is no tuition charge, no living expenses, no travel cost, and no other academic expense that is not covered by this program.
• Eligibility: Students from Sub-Saharan Africa with demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to contributing to their community.
• How to Apply: Applicants must indicate their interest in the program when applying to a partner university. Deadlines vary by university.
10. Clark University Presidential Scholarships
International students with exemplary academic performance and leadership potential are eligible for Clark University’s Presidential LEEP Scholarship. Up to four years of tuition, room, and board are covered by the scholarship.
• Eligibility: International students with excellent academic records and leadership skills.
• How to Apply: Applicants must apply for admission to Clark University and submit a separate scholarship application. The deadline is usually in January.
In conclusion
For international students who desire to study in the U.S. in 2024, financial aid opportunities will be plentiful. AAUW International Fellowships, Fulbright Foreign Student Program, and Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program are some of the scholarships designed to give students from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to pursue higher education. Students can find the scholarship that best fits their academic and career goals by researching the eligibility criteria and application process.
Don’t wait until the last minute to begin your application, gather all required documents, and stay on top of deadlines in order to maximize your chances of receiving one of these awards. U.S. study abroad offers more than world-class education, it’s also a gateway to cultural exchange and personal development. Studying in the U.S. can be greatly reduced if you have the right scholarship, allowing you to focus on your academic and professional goals.