Pursuing higher education abroad can be a life-changing experience for many international students. The United States, in particular, is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, making it a highly sought-after destination. However, the cost of studying in the U.S. can be prohibitive—especially for non-U.S. citizens, who often face higher tuition rates and fewer financial aid options.
The good news is that there are numerous scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships help reduce the financial burden and make global education more accessible. Below is a curated list of some of the top scholarships available to non-U.S. citizens, covering undergraduate, graduate, and research-level studies.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious international exchange programs in the world, funded by the U.S. government.
Eligibility:
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Open to students from over 155 countries.
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Applicants must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent.
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Requires strong academic performance and leadership potential.
Coverage:
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Full tuition
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Travel costs
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Living stipend
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Health insurance
Highlights:
The Fulbright Program is ideal for graduate students, young professionals, and artists looking to study or conduct research in the United States.
2. AAUW International Fellowships (American Association of University Women)
AAUW offers fellowships for women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and wish to pursue full-time graduate or postgraduate study in the United States.
Eligibility:
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Female non-U.S. citizens
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Must hold an academic degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree
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Must intend to return to their home country to pursue a professional career
Coverage:
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$20,000 to $50,000 depending on the level of study
Highlights:
This fellowship supports women committed to creating social change in their home communities.
3. Humphrey Fellowship Program
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, this program provides mid-career professionals from designated countries with a year of professional enrichment in the United States.
Eligibility:
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Non-U.S. professionals with a minimum of five years of work experience
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Demonstrated leadership and commitment to public service
Coverage:
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Tuition
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Living expenses
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English language training (if required)
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Professional development support
Highlights:
Unlike traditional degree programs, this fellowship focuses on non-degree academic study and professional collaboration.
4. Clark Global Scholarship Program
Clark University in Massachusetts offers the Clark Global Scholars Program to first-year applicants from outside the United States who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
Eligibility:
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First-year undergraduate applicants from non-U.S. backgrounds
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Strong academic performance and community involvement
Coverage:
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Scholarships range from $15,000 to $25,000 per year
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An additional $2,500 stipend for a research project or internship
Highlights:
This scholarship is renewable for four years, provided that academic standards are maintained.
5. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
This scholarship targets students from developing countries who wish to pursue graduate studies in development-related fields at universities in the U.S. or other participating countries.
Eligibility:
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Nationals of World Bank member developing countries
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A bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years of development-related work experience
Coverage:
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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
Highlights:
Graduates are expected to return to their home countries and contribute to economic development.
6. International Merit Scholarships at American Universities
Many American universities offer merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students. While these vary by institution, they are often awarded based on academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and leadership.
Notable Examples:
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New York University (NYU): Offers Global Pathways Scholarship
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University of Oregon: ICSP Scholarship for students who demonstrate financial need and cultural service
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Illinois Wesleyan University: Merit-based awards for international students ranging from $16,000 to full tuition
Coverage:
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Partial to full tuition
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Renewable annually based on academic performance
Highlights:
Most of these scholarships do not require a separate application—they are awarded automatically upon admission review.
7. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation partners with universities across the United States and globally to provide scholarships to students from Sub-Saharan Africa.
Eligibility:
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Must be a Sub-Saharan African national
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Demonstrated academic talent and leadership
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Financial need
Partner Institutions:
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Arizona State University
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University of California, Berkeley
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Stanford University
Coverage:
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Full tuition and fees
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Accommodation
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Books and materials
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Travel costs
Highlights:
This program is designed not just for academic support, but also for mentorship and leadership development.
8. Rotary Peace Fellowships
The Rotary Foundation offers fellowships for individuals pursuing master’s degrees in peace and conflict resolution.
Eligibility:
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Proven commitment to peace and development work
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Professional experience in related fields
Coverage:
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Full tuition
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Room and board
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Round-trip transportation
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Internship/field-study expenses
Highlights:
Fellowships are offered at select universities around the world, including the U.S., Japan, and the UK.
Tips for Applying to Scholarships as a Non-U.S. Citizen
1. Start Early
Many scholarships have deadlines 6–12 months before the academic term begins. Start researching and preparing your materials early.
2. Pay Attention to Requirements
Each scholarship has different eligibility criteria, documentation, and application procedures. Read instructions carefully and tailor your application accordingly.
3. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your chance to stand out. Highlight your background, goals, and why you're a good fit for both the scholarship and the university.
4. Get Strong Recommendations
Letters of recommendation should come from individuals who know you academically or professionally and can speak to your potential.
5. Demonstrate Impact
Many scholarships look for candidates who will make a positive impact in their field or home country. Be sure to articulate your long-term vision clearly.
Conclusion
While navigating the U.S. education system as a non-citizen can be complex, there is a wealth of scholarship opportunities available for those who are proactive, prepared, and passionate. Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate studies, graduate degrees, or professional development, these scholarships can pave the way for academic and career success on a global scale.
With determination and the right support, your dreams of studying in the United States—or at any top global institution—can become a reality.