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Scholarships in the USA: Funding Options for International Students

If you are an international student looking to study in the US, exploring the wide range of scholarships available to you from universities and organisations is crucial. While earning a degree in the United States can be expensive, numerous scholarships are designed to support international students financially.

Why Pursue Scholarships in the US?

Almost all US universities have scholarship programmes, many of which are open to international students. According to the Fulbright Commission, over 600 American universities offer scholarships worth $20,000 or more. These scholarships are often awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or extracurricular achievements. Additionally, private organisations and donors provide scholarships with diverse eligibility criteria, creating even more opportunities.

For students unsure about their field of study, it is worth noting that some scholarships are targeted at high-demand fields like nursing or healthcare. Researching scholarship opportunities can also guide your decision on what to study.

Types of Scholarships in the US

  1. University Scholarships: Most universities offer financial aid to international students, making them the first place to check for funding options.

  2. Financial Scholarships: These are based on students' financial needs. While many are reserved for US residents, some universities extend them to international students.

  3. Merit Scholarships: Awarded to students with exceptional academic achievements, athletic talent, or notable community contributions.

  4. Country-Based Scholarships: Targeted at students from specific countries, particularly developing nations.

  5. Government-Funded Scholarships: Various scholarship programmes funded by the US government cater to international students.

  6. Privately-Funded Scholarships: Sponsored by private businesses or donors, these often focus on specific fields of study or minority groups.

  7. Part Scholarships: These provide partial funding, ranging from small one-off payments to significant contributions towards tuition or living expenses.

Notable Private and Government Scholarships

  • The Fulbright Commission: Offers scholarships for UK citizens pursuing postgraduate and doctoral studies in any discipline. These scholarships cover first-year fees and health insurance, with some applicants eligible for full funding.

  • The American Association of University Women (AAUW): Provides fellowships for non-American women pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees, offering awards of $18,000–$30,000. Priority is given to women dedicated to advancing women and girls.

  • The Next Gen Scholarship: Grants $1,000+ to students studying in Maryland, Washington, or Virginia with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

  • P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship: Awards up to $12,500 to female international students pursuing graduate studies.

  • Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship: Provides 50% grant and 50% loan scholarships for postgraduate students from developing countries.

University-Specific Scholarships

  • American University (Washington DC): Offers free tuition and board for one international undergraduate student for four years. Partial scholarships are also available.

  • University of Arkansas: Provides various funding opportunities for international students.

  • Brandeis University: Covers full demonstrated financial need for its international scholarship recipients, including a round-trip air ticket each year.

  • Berea College: Fully funds 100% of international students’ expenses for their first year and offers summer jobs to help meet yearly savings targets.

  • Clark University: Offers merit-based grants and scholarships ranging from $20,000 to $25,000 per year.

  • Dartmouth College: Provides scholarships and loans for international students, including travel expenses to the US.

  • Harvard University: Offers fellowships covering tuition, health insurance, and living costs for graduate-level Britons.

  • Iowa State University: Awards merit-based scholarships of $2,000–$10,000 annually.

  • University of Minnesota: Provides grants of $5,000 and $10,000 annually to international students.

  • University of Oregon: Awards 30–40 scholarships covering tuition, with amounts ranging from $7,500 to $30,000 annually. Recipients give cultural presentations about their home countries.

  • Wesleyan University: Freeman Asian Scholars Programme offers full tuition scholarships to 11 exceptional Asian undergraduate students annually.

How to Find Scholarships

  1. Research Thoroughly: Explore scholarship opportunities online and on university websites.

  2. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for the scholarships you’re applying for.

  3. Focus on Your Strengths: Highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, or leadership potential.

  4. Contact Universities: Reach out to university financial aid offices for guidance on available scholarships.

  5. Stay Organised: Keep track of deadlines, required documents, and application processes.

Conclusion

This is not an exhaustive list, but it serves as a starting point for international students seeking scholarships in the US. Remember to check with your institution of choice for additional funding opportunities. By leveraging the right scholarship, you can turn your dream of studying in the US into a reality.