Top 20 Scholarships for International Students in the USA in 2025!

Are you searching for the best scholarships for international students in the USA to make your dream of studying abroad more affordable and accessible? A vibrant influx of international students arrives in the US each year, bringing with it a fusion of possibilities, ideas, and cultures. Many institutions in the United States receive thousands of applications from students worldwide.

The Institute of International Education (IIE) reports that during the 2022–2023 academic year, more than 1.05 million international students were enrolled at American colleges. Global student mobility has been steadily improving, particularly after the epidemic. Less than 35,000 foreign students were enrolled in American universities in the middle of the 1950s; this figure has significantly increased over the years.

Due to eligibility requirements and the overwhelming volume of applications, obtaining US scholarships for international students can be difficult and competitive. Bringing you the top 20 scholarships for international students in the United States is the reason we are here. Explore them all by reading on!

Table of Contents

Types of US Scholarships For International Students

The United States offers a variety of scholarships for international students for a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Let’s break each one down individually to better understand the steps to securing a scholarship for studying in the U.S.:

1. Merit-based Scholarships

U.S. scholarships for international students support various aspects of a student’s academic journey. They are typically awarded to those who excel academically and achieve strong SAT or ACT scores. Alongside merit-based awards, there are also athletic scholarships tailored to specific sports. Another notable opportunity is the Average Academic Scholarship, which evaluates a student’s all-around performance, not just test results

2. Need-based Scholarships

Students from economically challenged backgrounds are the only ones taken into consideration when creating this. Numerous universities in the United States, including prestigious institutions like Harvard and Cornell, offer need-based scholarships for international students. These scholarships are designed to support eligible students by covering part or all of their tuition expenses, making higher education more accessible regardless of financial background.

3. Country-based Scholarships

Students from impoverished or underdeveloped nations are the target audience for this international student scholarship in the United States. It was founded to encourage students from these countries to have access to high-quality education.

4. University Scholarships

The goal of the top scholarship institutions in the United States is to assist students in their academic endeavors. These American institutions that grant scholarships usually base their decisions on a number of criteria, such as financial need, academic merit, or other requirements established by the school, like extracurricular activities or a given topic of study.

5. Privately Funded Scholarships

These US international scholarships for international students prioritize certain demographics, such as women and minorities. These scholarships are frequently referred to as external or private scholarships in the United States.

Top Scholarships for International Students in the United States

A significant number of overseas students travel to the United States each year to receive the greatest education possible. But before making big changes, one should find out why studying in the US is necessary. International students’ financial load might be considerably reduced by navigating scholarships in the United States.

In 2025, there will be merit-based, need-based, and privately sponsored scholarships for international students. Notable programs include the Gates Scholarship, which supports 300 students annually, and the Fulbright Scholarship, which provides over 4,000 scholarships annually. Targeted US scholarships for international students are offered by prestigious universities like Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, which frequently include living expenses, tuition, and housing.

Understanding eligibility, application dates, and necessary documentation can help students take advantage of opportunities to receive a top-notch education in the United States. Let’s explore some of the United States’ available scholarships for international students.

1. US Fulbright Scholar Program

Host University: Various U.S. universities
Level of Study: Master’s or PhD
Award Amount: For master’s students, $35,000 is awarded. Funding for PhD students varies.
Type: Fully Funded
Valid Till: One academic year (renewable)

The Fulbright Scholar Program stands out as one of the premier scholarships for international students in the United States. As a key cultural exchange initiative backed by the U.S. government, the Fulbright Program is designed to foster mutual understanding and global cooperation. It aims to bridge cultural and academic divides by facilitating the exchange of people, ideas, and expertise between the U.S. and other nations, promoting diplomacy and intercultural awareness through education and shared experiences.

It gives US residents the chance to teach, conduct research, and work on professional projects abroad by offering more than 400 grants in 135 countries. Additionally, these fully financed scholarships for international students in the USA allow one to become one of the more than 400,000 Fulbright graduates.

2. Fulbright Foreign Students Scholarship

Host University: Various US universities
Level of Study: Master’s or PhD
Award Amount: $35,000 for Master’s students
Type: Fully Funded
Valid Till: Duration of study program

The Fulbright Foreign Students Scholarship allows artists, young professionals, and graduate students from throughout the world to study and conduct research in the United States. More than 160 countries offer these full scholarships for international students studying in the US. It is given to more than 4,000 overseas students annually and is administered by US Embassies or binational Fulbright Commissions/Foundations.

3. Boston University Presidential Scholarship

Host University: Boston University
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Award Amount: $25,000 per year
Type: Partially Funded
Valid Till: 4 years (renewable)

The Board of Admissions awards the Presidential Scholarship each year to new students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement. Presidential Scholars are among the most gifted kids in the academic community, excel outside of the classroom, and hold leadership positions in their schools and communities.

The scholarship grant amount is renewable for four years, which lowers undergraduate students’ tuition expenses. It significantly lowers financial obstacles for high-achieving students, even though it does not cover full tuition.

4. Stanford University Scholarship

Host University: Stanford University
Level of Study: Undergraduate, Graduate
Award Amount: Tuition and other educational expenses are covered by need-based financial aid.
Type: Fully Funded
Valid Till: Program duration

Stanford University offers a variety of scholarships to students based on their eligibility, merit, and need. Tuition, lodging and board, and other educational costs are covered by these scholarships for international students studying in the United States. Stanford provides low-interest loans, work-study options, grants, and scholarships to cover all of the demonstrated financial needs. Students from families earning less than $100,000 annually are exempt from paying tuition. Students must fill out the CSS Profile and the Federal Student Aid Application (FAFSA) to be eligible.

5. Yale University Scholarships

Host University: Yale University
Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s, & PhD
Award Amount: Up to $70,000 per year
Type: Fully Funded (need-based)
Valid Till: Duration of the program

Yale offers one of the greatest scholarships for international students in the United States. To assist both domestic and foreign students, the university provides a variety of need- and merit-based scholarships. Need-based scholarships range in value from a few hundred dollars to over $70,000 annually, with an average of more than $50,000. Additionally, endowment scholarships, local Yale Club awards, and other gift assistance from Yale’s alumni and donors may be available to recipients.

Many Yale students are eligible for merit awards from outside groups, such as nonprofits, employers, and private companies, even though the university does not grant merit scholarships. These scholarships are given out based on scholastic accomplishment, athletic prowess, musical ability, or other specialized abilities.

6. Tulane University Scholarship

Host University: Tulane University
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Award Amount: From $1,000 to the entire cost of tuition or attendance
Type: Merit-Based
Valid Till: 4 years (renewable)

Tulane University provides several scholarships for international students studying in the United States. Eligible students who have not previously received an equivalent or greater amount in merit scholarships are eligible for need-based financial help up to $30,000. Students must reapply each year for need-based funding by sending in the CSS profile together with any necessary supporting documentation. Additionally, the Common Application is used to automatically evaluate applicants for partial merit awards.

7. Knight-Hennessy Scholarship

Host University: Stanford University
Level of Study: Master’s/Ph.D.
Award Amount: Covers up to $300,000 in living expenses, tuition, and academic expenditures.
Type: Fully Funded Scholarship
Valid Till: Duration of the program

The Knight-Hennesy Scholarship at Stanford University is a fully financed prize and is among the top American scholarships for international students. Its goal is to create a community of future world leaders who can work together and be creative to solve difficult problems. The scholarship provides access to leadership development training, mentorship, and international networking opportunities in addition to paying for tuition, living expenses, and travel expenses.

Students are chosen through a very competitive procedure and evaluated on their academic standing, leadership capacity, and steadfast dedication to having a positive influence. The opportunity to participate in leadership seminars at Stanford’s Denning House is another benefit of this top scholarship in the United States for international students.

8. Freedom Foundation Scholarship

Host University: Various US universities
Level of Study: Non-degree programs
Award Amount: Complete scholarship, up to $30,000 for US internships
Type: Fully Funded
Valid Till: 10 months

The Freedom Foundation Scholarship is among the top scholarships for international students in the United States. It is designed for seasoned professionals who want to further their leadership skills by exchanging knowledge and insights on issues that are significant to both the United States and the fellows’ home countries. Through a variety of academic courses, networking opportunities, conference participation, and practical job experiences, this non-degree program provides advantageous professional growth options.

International students must demonstrate excellent leadership, civic involvement, and a dedication to democratic values to be eligible for this award in the United States. Tuition, books, and other educational costs are covered by the scholarship. Additionally, one receives leadership training, networking opportunities, and mentorship to hone their abilities and contribute significantly to society.

9. The Gates Scholarship Program

Host University: Various US universities
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Award Amount: The Gates Millennium Award is one of several awards of different amounts
Scholars Program and the Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Type: Fully Funded
Valid Till: 4 years

Last-dollar grants, known as the Gates Scholarship, are given to deserving minority high school seniors from low-income households. Every year, outstanding student leaders in the United States receive these scholarships for international students. The entire cost of participation, including books, transportation, lodging and board, tuition, and fees, is covered by the program.

The Student help Index (SAI), as established by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and other financial help are taken into consideration before doing this. These students must comprehend the procedures, regulations, and costs associated with obtaining a USA student visa as they get ready to study there. These scholarships are awarded to about 300 overseas students in the United States each year.

10. Berea College Scholarships

Host University: Berea College
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Award Amount: The average amount of help awarded at Berea College is $54,004.
Type: Fully Funded
Valid Till: Duration of the undergraduate program

All registered international students at Berea College receive full financing for the first academic year. In the United States, making it one of the best scholarships for international students, this combination of financial aid and scholarships helps to cover some of the costs of tuition, housing, and board. To help with their expenses in the following years, international students are advised to set aside $1,000 annually. Students can utilize their earnings of roughly $2,000 in their first year to cover personal expenses.

11. Onsi Sawiris Scholarship

Host University: Partner US universities
Level of Study: Master’s
Award Amount: Full tuition, housing expenses, health insurance, and travel
Type: Fully Funded
Valid Till: 2 years

Since its inception in 2000, these scholarships for international students in the United States have assisted 91 worthy people in pursuing their academic objectives. By offering full tuition scholarships to Egyptian students pursuing degrees at prestigious American colleges, Orascom Construction’s Onsi Sawiris Scholarship initiative aims to boost Egypt’s economic competitiveness.

This scholarship is highly likely to be awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding academic success, leadership potential, and a dedication to aiding Egypt’s growth. It includes health insurance, living expenditures, travel charges, and tuition.

12. Treasure Scholarship at Boise State University

Host University: Boise State University
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Award Amount: $8,460 per year
Type: Partially Funded
Valid Till: 4 years (renewable)

Boise State University offers one of the greatest scholarships for international students in the United States: the Treasure Scholarship. The $8,460 annual scholarship, which is renewable for a maximum of four years, helps students drastically reduce their tuition costs. To be eligible for this scholarship, students must have a strong academic record and achieve competitive GPA requirements.

Incoming first-year and transfer students who wish to begin their bachelor’s degree journey in the United States can apply for these scholarships for international students. You are rewarded when you meet the minimal standards and dates defined by the institution.

13. Clark Global Scholarship Program

Host University: Clark University
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Award Amount: $15,000 to $25,000 per year
Type: Partially Funded
Valid Till: 4 years (renewable)

The Clark Globe Award Program was established in 1887 is one of the best scholarships for international students and is intended for international students who exhibit outstanding academic achievement, character traits, and a dedication to world change. Financial need is not taken into account while making the scholarship choice; it is solely based on the facts submitted in the entrance application.

Additionally, foreign students must demonstrate that they can afford to pay for a significant amount of their study. Please be aware that transfer students are not eligible for this. Approval is required for renewal. Reviewing this guide to US intakes may also help you better grasp when and how to apply if you’re unfamiliar with the country’s educational system.

14. Radford University Scholarship

Host University: Radford University
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Award Amount: $12,000
Type: Partially Funded
Valid Till: 4 years

The partially financed Radford University Scholarship is open to students who have excelled academically and shown leadership. Students must fill out a scholarship application and fulfill the university’s admission standards to be eligible for the award. High-achieving students might receive significant tuition aid through these scholarships for international students studying in the US. To increase their chances of receiving the scholarship, the school advises students to apply as soon as possible and to send in all necessary paperwork.

15. University of New Haven

Host University: University of New Haven
Level of Study: Undergraduate, Graduate
Award Amount: $21,000 to $26,000 per year
Type: Partially Funded
Duration: The program’s duration

Numerous scholarships for international students are available via the University of New Haven in Connecticut. These US scholarships are given out on the basis of outstanding accomplishments in a variety of professions, leadership potential, and academic distinction. The award amount, which varies from $21,000 to $26,000 annually, is renewable for a maximum of four years.

16. The HAAA Scholarship

Host University: Harvard University
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Award Amount: Partial funding (varies)
Type: Partially Funded
Duration: The program’s duration

HAAA is working closely with Harvard on two free initiatives to address the historical underrepresentation of Arabs and increase awareness of the Arab world. As part of Project Harvard Admissions, Harvard College students and alumni go to Arab high schools and universities to help students with the Harvard application process and to discuss their educational experiences. They are hoping to raise $10 million to provide these scholarships for international students in the United States.

17. Marconi International University Scholarships

Host University: Marconi International University
Level of Study: Undergraduate, Graduate
Award Amount: 20% to 60% of tuition is covered.
Type: Partially Funded
Valid Till: Program duration

MIU also offers some scholarships for international students studying in the United States to qualified students. Both domestic and foreign students are eligible for the scholarships, which partially pay for tuition. These scholarships are highly likely to be awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, financial need, and noteworthy accomplishments. Depending on their eligibility, a person may receive full or partial tuition aid. Students must fill out a scholarship application and fulfill the university’s admission standards to be eligible for the MIU scholarship.

18. Frostburg State University

Host University: Frostburg State University
Level of Study: Undergraduate, Graduate
Award Amount: $15,400 per year
Type: Partially Funded
Duration: Renewable annually

Scholarships for international students who excel academically and engage in community service are available from Frostburg State University in the United States. Depending on the candidate, these US scholarships for international students may pay all or a portion of the tuition costs. Before the deadline, which falls between February and June, interested candidates must fulfill the requirements for admission and submit a scholarship application.

19. Illinois Wesleyan University Scholarships

Host University: Illinois Wesleyan University
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Award Amount: $16,000 to $30,000 per year
Type: Merit-Based
Valid Till: 4 years (renewable)

Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU) also continues to offer the best American university scholarships for international students. If you’re a foreign student planning to start the first year of the university’s bachelor’s degree program, you can apply for merit-based scholarships, president’s scholarships, and need-based financial help excellent achievers who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and excellent test scores on the necessary entry tests are eligible to apply for the merit-based scholarships.

The award ranges from $15,000 to $38,000 annually and can be renewed for a maximum of four years. Every year, two full-tuition scholarships for the President’s scholarship are awarded to outstanding first-year overseas students. Academic achievement, skills, and distinctive hobbies are taken into consideration when awarding it. Together with merit scholarships in the USA, students may also be eligible for loans, campus jobs, and IWU-funded scholarships.

20. Cornell University Financial Aid

Host University: Cornell University
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Award Amount: $62,442 (can vary)
Type: Need-Based
Valid Till: 4 years (renewable)

It offers financial aid to international students based on need and is one of the top scholarships for international students in the United States. This completely financed grant is only available for undergraduate study. In order to satisfy 100% of verified financial need, Cornell University offers low-interest loans, work-study options, and grants as part of its aid package.

Qualification Requirement for Scholarships for International Students in USA

Before applying, make sure your checklist for obtaining an international student scholarship in the United States is ready. The prerequisites for scholarship eligibility in the United States are the first item on this list. Let’s examine the process of applying for a scholarship for international students in the United States in more detail.

1. Application Process: Many students in the United States make the error of misinterpreting the information while applying for a scholarship. Keep in mind the deadline while applying for scholarships for international students in the US. Keep in mind that the scholarship dates differ from the application deadlines for the best US universities.

2. Admission Requirements: It is advisable to study the scholarship requirements of the university you plan to attend before submitting an application. Students are required to submit their financial records, personal essays, recommendation letters, and transcripts before the scholarship deadline.

3. Academic Requirements: Certain scholarships offered by American universities could have preferences or requirements related to particular subjects. Find out if any results from standardized tests, such the SAT or ACT, are needed. Many entrance exam guides are available to assist you with your exam preparation, covering everything from eligibility requirements to efficient study techniques.

A minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher is frequently required, while certain US scholarships for international students call for exceptional achievement. Some scholarships require English proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, for students from non-English speaking countries.

Extra Conditions for Specific Scholarships in the United States

Certain scholarships for international students in the United States come with additional conditions that are customized to particular student populations or goals.

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: These American scholarships for international students need exceptional academic achievement in addition to creative or athletic accomplishments. For instance, eligibility can be greatly increased by having excellent SAT or ACT scores (usually above 1300 for SAT or 28 for ACT).

2. Need-Based Scholarships: Students must provide proof of financial need, such as tax returns, family income statements, FAFSAs, or other family financial information, to be considered for these scholarships for international students in the United States.

3. Country-Specific Scholarships: These USA fellowships, which are targeted at students from particular countries, particularly developing ones, promote educational access for underserved areas.

4. Field-Specific Scholarships: Certain US college scholarships for international students are intended for certain professions, including the arts or STEM, and may call for extra supporting documentation, such as research ideas or portfolios.

Advice on How International Students Can Apply for Scholarships in the US

It’s not simple to win some of the top scholarships in the United States; it takes rigorous preparation. We can assist you in preparing to apply for scholarships for international students in the United States, so don’t worry. The following fantastic advice will make your journey easier:

Expand Your Application Scope: To increase your chances of success, research and apply for scholarships in the USA that are provided by various schools and organizations.
Seek Guidance and Support: Never be afraid to ask for help from your university’s academic counselors, teachers, financial aid office, and study abroad office.
Secure Strong Recommendation Letters: Get letters of recommendation from instructors or professors who can successfully emphasize your skills, accomplishments, and other pertinent qualities.
Stay Organized and Adhere to Deadlines: Make a special calendar to keep track of the due dates for various US scholarships. This will guarantee that you fulfill all standards and submit your applications on time.
Network Effectively: To find out about scholarship opportunities, establish relationships with academics, professionals, and instructors in your field of study. To increase your network and discover possible financing sources, go to pertinent conferences and events.
Highlight Your Goals and Achievements: Highlight your extracurricular and academic accomplishments in addition to your long-term objectives when applying for scholarships.
Prepare for Application Documents: Verify that the essays, statement of purpose, and academic transcripts you submit with your application for a scholarship in the United States are ready and fulfill the standards of each scholarship.

Finally, it is important to note that some of the aforementioned scholarships for international students in the United States are exclusively based on merit or need. Students must fulfill certain requirements to be eligible for a scholarship in the United States. Going forward, there is no denying that the United States of America is home to some of the best colleges in the world, but these are frequently expensive. Having said that, we hope your future activities are filled with success.