With college costs continuing to rise, many international students struggle to pay for their education in the United States. However, a wide variety of scholarships are available that can help make a top U.S. university affordable. In this article, you’ll learn about the 10 best scholarships for international students in 2025.
The scholarships highlighted offer substantial awards, are open to international applicants, and have reasonable eligibility requirements. Whether you are an incoming freshman or a graduate student, this guide will provide you with information on competitive scholarships to apply for from organizations, universities, and government agencies.
The application processes and deadlines are explained to help you submit strong applications. With preparation and persistence, these scholarships can help fund your U.S. degree as an international student.
Introduction to Scholarships for International Students
Government-Funded Scholarships
The U.S. government offers several scholarships and grants for international students, including the Fulbright Foreign Student Program. The Fulbright program provides funding for graduate study and research in the U.S. for one year or longer. Candidates must apply through the Fulbright program in their home country. The Humphrey Fellowship Program is another option, providing funding for one year of non-degree graduate study and leadership development in the U.S.
University-Funded Scholarships
Many U.S. colleges and universities offer scholarships and grants for international students. These are often merit-based, meaning they are awarded based on a student’s academic achievements and promise. Some universities also offer scholarships based on a combination of merit and financial need. It is best for students to check with universities they are interested in to determine what scholarships may be available as well as application deadlines and procedures.
Privately-Funded Scholarships
There are also many scholarships offered by private organizations, non-profits, and corporations. These include scholarships like the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, the Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans, and the Schwarzman Scholars program. Qualifications and benefits vary, but most cover at least partial tuition and expenses for undergraduate or graduate study in the U.S. Students should research scholarships that match their background, field of study, and needs.
In summary, there are many scholarship opportunities for international students to study in the U.S. Both merit-based and need-based scholarships are available through various government, university, and private programs. With diligent research and application, international students have a good chance of finding funding to achieve their educational goals in America.
The Full Ride: Top 10 Full Scholarships for International Students
International students seeking undergraduate or graduate degrees in the U.S. have several opportunities to obtain full scholarships that cover tuition, room, and board. The following are 10 of the best full scholarships for international students:
Rhodes Scholarship
The prestigious Rhodes Scholarship funds up to 3 years of study at the University of Oxford in the U.K. It covers all tuition and living expenses. Selection is based on outstanding intellect, character, leadership, and commitment to service. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and be between 18 and 28 years old.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship funds postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge. It covers the full cost of tuition, living expenses, and travel. To be eligible, applicants must have an undergraduate degree and be citizens of any country outside the U.K. Selection is based on intellectual ability, leadership capacity, and a desire to contribute to society through their chosen field of study.
Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program funds graduate study at Stanford University. It covers tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and travel. To be eligible, applicants must have earned or be on track to earn a bachelor’s degree and have a record of intellectual achievement, leadership, and civic responsibility. The program is open to citizens of any country.
Clarendon Scholarship
The Clarendon Scholarship funds graduate study at the University of Oxford. It covers tuition, living expenses, and travel. Applicants must have earned or be on track to earn a bachelor’s degree. Selection is based on academic merit and potential. The scholarship is open to citizens of any country outside the U.K.
In summary, international students have access to several prestigious and generous scholarships that provide full funding for undergraduate and graduate study in the world’s top universities. While the application processes are competitive, for those students who meet the high standards of academic achievement and leadership potential, these scholarships represent an unparalleled opportunity.
Best Merit-Based Scholarships for International Undergrads
Several prestigious universities and organizations offer merit-based scholarships specifically for international undergraduate students to help offset the high cost of U.S. college degrees. These scholarships are awarded based on a student’s academic achievements, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and community service.
Coca-Cola Scholars Program
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program awards 150 college scholarships worth $20,000 each to exceptional high school students across the U.S. Applicants must demonstrate leadership and drive to create positive change. The highly competitive program evaluates students on their grades, community service, and extracurricular activities. International students are eligible to apply.
Prudential Spirit of Community Awards
The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards honor students in grades 5 through 12 for outstanding volunteer service to their communities. The program selects and provides scholarships to the top youth volunteers in each state and U.S. territory. State honorees receive $1,000 awards and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., while national honorees receive $5,000 awards. International students enrolled in U.S. schools can apply.
While college in the U.S. can be expensive, especially for international students, merit-based scholarships provide meaningful opportunities. Exceptional students from around the globe have a chance to attend some of the world’s top universities. By maintaining strong grades, pursuing extracurricular activities, and volunteering to make a difference, international students can set themselves up for success in securing merit-based scholarships to fund their studies in the U.S.
Top University Scholarships for International Graduate Students
As an international student pursuing graduate studies in the U.S., financing your education can be challenging. However, many top universities offer generous scholarships and fellowships for exceptional international applicants. These merit-based awards can fund a significant portion of your tuition and living expenses.
Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
Stanford University’s Knight-Hennessy Scholars program offers up to three years of funding for graduate studies in any field. The award covers tuition, stipend, health insurance and additional enrichment activities. To be eligible, you must apply and be admitted to a graduate degree program at Stanford. Awards are highly competitive, with only up to 100 scholars selected each year from a pool of thousands of applicants worldwide.
Harvard University Presidential Scholarships
Harvard University awards Presidential Scholarships for up to three years of graduate study in any discipline. The award covers full tuition, health insurance and an annual stipend. To qualify, you must first be admitted to a Harvard graduate school. The scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and promise for future achievement. Up to five percent of admitted students may receive this prestigious award each year.
Cornell University Graduate School Fellowships
Cornell University’s Graduate School offers fellowships for international students in all fields of study leading to a Ph.D. The fellowships provide five years of funding, including a full tuition scholarship, health insurance and an annual stipend for living expenses. To be considered, you must apply and be admitted to a Ph.D. program at Cornell. Selection is based on academic merit, letters of recommendation and a personal statement. Cornell aims to support exceptional students who will contribute to diversity and inclusiveness.
In summary, top U.S. universities strive to attract and support talented international graduate students through generous scholarship and fellowship programs. If you are an exceptional applicant, focusing on prestigious, private universities may increase your chances of obtaining full funding for your graduate studies. With vision, hard work, and perseverance, these opportunities can help you achieve your dreams.
Most Generous Private Scholarships for International Students
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University in California offers full funding for up to three years of graduate study at Stanford. The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and healthcare for up to 100 high-achieving students from around the world every year. To be eligible, students must demonstrate outstanding leadership potential and a commitment to solving complex challenges.
The Schwarzman Scholars Program
The Schwarzman Scholars Program provides a one-year master’s degree in global affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. The program covers full tuition, room and board, travel expenses, and provides a stipend. Schwarzman Scholars are selected based on their leadership potential, academic excellence, and desire to build stronger relationships between China and the rest of the world. Up to 200 scholars are selected annually from top universities around the world.
The Yenching Academy of Peking University Fellowship
The Yenching Academy of Peking University offers generous funding for interdisciplinary master’s programs in China Studies and intercultural studies. The fellowship covers full tuition, accommodation, travel, and living expenses for up to 125 students per year. Fellows have opportunities to participate in seminars, learn Mandarin Chinese, conduct fieldwork, and develop mentorship relationships with distinguished faculty. Applications are open to top students worldwide with an interest in China Studies.
In summary, private institutions and philanthropic organizations offer substantial funding for international students through full-tuition scholarships, living stipends, and other benefits. These generous scholarships provide opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to gain access to world-class education at top universities around the globe. With hard work and perseverance, outstanding students worldwide can attain a prestigious education through private scholarships and build connections across borders.
Conclusion
In closing, as you consider the best scholarships for international students, keep the ten options discussed here in mind. While the application processes will certainly require time and effort, the potential rewards make them worthwhile pursuits. Focus on presenting yourself and your academic goals in the most compelling ways possible.
And remember – apply early and fully to maximize your chances. With dedication and perseverance, you can obtain the funding needed to achieve your educational dreams in the United States. Stay optimistic throughout the process and keep striving toward your aspirations. The opportunity awaits you.