Securing a scholarship for master’s or PhD studies in the United States can be transformative, opening doors to world-class education and research opportunities. As the global hub of innovation and academic excellence, the U.S. attracts thousands of international students each year seeking to further their education in diverse fields ranging from engineering to humanities. Scholarships play a pivotal role in making this dream a reality, offering financial support that can significantly alleviate the cost of tuition, living expenses, and research endeavors.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore ten prestigious scholarships available for international students pursuing advanced degrees in the United States. These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but also provide stipends for living expenses and research grants, fostering an environment conducive to academic growth and professional development. Each scholarship has unique eligibility criteria and application processes, designed to identify and support the most talented and promising scholars from around the world.

From Fulbright scholarships that promote cultural exchange to institution-specific awards offered by top universities, these opportunities cater to a wide range of academic disciplines and career aspirations. Beyond financial aid, these scholarships often provide access to mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and academic resources that enrich the student experience and prepare scholars for impactful careers in their respective fields.

Whether you aspire to conduct groundbreaking research, pursue advanced studies in your field of interest, or contribute to global scholarship, navigating the landscape of scholarships in the United States requires careful planning and preparation. Join us as we delve into these ten scholarships, each representing a gateway to academic excellence and a promising future in American higher education.

10 Scholarships for Master’s & PhD Studies in the United States

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program stands as a beacon of academic exchange and cultural diplomacy, offering transformative opportunities for international students pursuing master’s and PhD studies in the United States. Established in 1946 under the auspices of Senator J. William Fulbright, this prestigious scholarship program is administered by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. It embodies the principles of mutual understanding and global cooperation by supporting scholars from over 160 countries.

Open to students across all academic disciplines, the Fulbright Foreign Student Program caters to individuals with outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to promoting cross-cultural understanding. Applicants are selected based on their academic merit, proposed field of study, and the potential impact of their research or professional goals.

The benefits of the Fulbright scholarship are comprehensive, covering tuition expenses, airfare to and from the United States, a living stipend to cover room and board, and health insurance. These provisions ensure that scholars can focus wholeheartedly on their academic pursuits without financial burden, fostering an environment conducive to intellectual growth and cultural exchange.

Application deadlines for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program vary by country, typically falling between February and October each year. Prospective applicants are encouraged to check with the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country for specific details and deadlines.

Beyond financial support, Fulbright scholars become part of a global alumni network renowned for its impact on international relations and scholarly achievements. Alumni often go on to occupy leadership positions in academia, government, and various sectors worldwide, embodying the program’s commitment to fostering lasting connections and advancing global understanding through education.

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program not only provides unparalleled financial support but also cultivates a transformative educational experience that transcends borders, equipping scholars to make significant contributions to their fields and communities globally.

AAUW International Fellowships

The AAUW (American Association of University Women) International Fellowships represent a vital opportunity for women worldwide seeking to pursue master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral studies in the United States. Established in 1917, this prestigious fellowship aims to empower women by providing financial support and fostering leadership through education.

Eligible applicants include women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, regardless of their field of study. This inclusivity encourages applicants from diverse academic backgrounds to apply, whether in STEM fields, humanities, social sciences, or the arts.

The fellowship offers substantial financial assistance tailored to the academic level pursued: $18,000 for master’s degree studies, $20,000 for doctoral studies, and $30,000 for postdoctoral research. This funding covers tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs, ensuring recipients can focus on their academic and professional growth without financial strain.

For the upcoming cycle, the application deadline is November 15, 2024. Applicants must submit a comprehensive application package that includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a detailed proposal of their study or research plan, and a personal statement outlining their career goals and commitment to women’s empowerment through education.

The AAUW International Fellowships not only provide financial support but also foster a community of women scholars committed to advancing gender equity and social change through their academic pursuits. Recipients join a prestigious network of alumnae who have gone on to make significant contributions in their respective fields, further highlighting the impact and legacy of the AAUW fellowship program.

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program stands as a prestigious opportunity for mid-career professionals from designated countries to enhance their leadership skills and professional development through a year of non-degree academic study and practical work-related experiences in the United States. Established in 1978 to honor the legacy of the late Senator and Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey, the program is funded by the U.S. Department of State and administered by the Institute of International Education (IIE).

Eligible applicants include professionals with substantial experience in fields such as public policy, public health, communications, education, and more. Participants are selected based on their demonstrated leadership potential and commitment to public service in their home countries. The fellowship program aims to cultivate a cadre of global leaders equipped with the knowledge and networks necessary to address critical challenges facing their societies.

Benefits provided under the Humphrey Fellowship are comprehensive, covering tuition fees for academic courses, a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, health insurance, and travel costs to and from the United States. These provisions ensure that fellows can fully focus on their academic and professional endeavors without financial concerns.

Application deadlines for the Humphrey Fellowship Program vary by country, typically falling between April and September each year. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission in their home country for specific deadlines and application procedures.

Beyond financial support, the fellowship experience includes professional affiliations and networking opportunities with colleagues in their field of expertise and exposure to American society and culture through enrichment activities, conferences, and workshops. Alumni of the Humphrey Fellowship Program join a distinguished global network of over 6,000 professionals who have made significant contributions to their countries and fields, embodying the program’s commitment to fostering mutual understanding and collaboration across borders.

Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans

The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans offer a transformative opportunity for immigrants and children of immigrants, including international students, pursuing graduate education in the United States. Established by philanthropists Paul and Daisy Soros in 1997, this fellowship program aims to support outstanding individuals who have demonstrated creativity, originality, and dedication to the American society.

Eligible applicants come from diverse backgrounds and fields of study, reflecting the program’s commitment to inclusivity across academic disciplines. Whether in STEM fields, humanities, social sciences, or the arts, fellows are selected based on their potential to make significant contributions to their respective fields and society at large.

The fellowship provides up to $90,000 over two years, covering tuition and living expenses, allowing recipients to focus entirely on their academic and professional goals. This financial support empowers fellows to pursue innovative research, engage in meaningful community service, and leverage their unique perspectives to effect positive change.

For the upcoming cycle, the application deadline is October 26, 2024. Prospective applicants must submit a detailed application package, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays detailing their achievements and goals, and evidence of their status as new Americans.

Beyond financial assistance, Soros Fellows join a prestigious network of scholars and professionals who share a commitment to advancing knowledge, fostering diversity, and contributing to the fabric of American society. Alumni of the program have gone on to excel in various fields, from academia and research to entrepreneurship and public service, embodying the values of innovation, leadership, and community engagement upheld by the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University represents a prestigious opportunity for graduate students across all academic disciplines to pursue their studies with full financial support. Established in 2016, the program is named in honor of benefactors Phil Knight and John Hennessy, former Stanford president, and offers a transformative educational experience aimed at developing future global leaders.

Eligibility for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is open to students applying to any of Stanford University’s graduate programs, including master’s, PhD, JD, MD, and MBA programs. Applicants are selected based on their academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to addressing complex global challenges.

The program covers all tuition costs and provides a generous stipend to cover living expenses and academic-related expenses, ensuring that scholars can fully immerse themselves in their studies and extracurricular activities without financial burden.

For the upcoming application cycle, the deadline is October 11, 2024. Prospective applicants must submit a comprehensive application package that includes academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if required by their chosen program), letters of recommendation, and essays outlining their personal experiences, achievements, and aspirations.

Beyond financial support, Knight-Hennessy Scholars benefit from a unique leadership development program that includes mentorship opportunities, workshops, and seminars aimed at enhancing their leadership skills, global perspective, and ability to make a positive impact in their respective fields and communities.

Joining the Knight-Hennessy Scholars community means becoming part of a diverse cohort of scholars from around the world who are committed to collaboration, innovation, and service. Alumni of the program are equipped to tackle complex societal challenges and contribute meaningfully to society, embodying the program’s mission to prepare future leaders who will shape a better world.

The Presidential Scholarship at Harvard University

The Presidential Scholarship at Harvard University stands as a prestigious award aimed at attracting exceptional new PhD students across all fields to its renowned academic community. This scholarship, offered to incoming doctoral students, exemplifies Harvard’s commitment to supporting scholarly excellence and fostering groundbreaking research.

Eligibility for the Presidential Scholarship is reserved for new PhD students admitted to Harvard University, regardless of their academic discipline. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic achievements, research potential, and alignment with Harvard’s mission of academic excellence and innovation.

The benefits of the Presidential Scholarship are comprehensive, covering full tuition costs for the duration of the PhD program. Additionally, recipients receive a generous living stipend, enabling them to focus intensively on their studies and research without financial concerns. The scholarship also includes substantial funding for research-related expenses, such as conference attendance, fieldwork, and academic materials, further enhancing scholars’ academic pursuits.

Application deadlines for the Presidential Scholarship vary by department within Harvard University. Prospective applicants are advised to consult their respective departments for specific deadlines and application procedures, ensuring they meet all requirements and submit their applications on time.

Beyond financial support, recipients of the Presidential Scholarship join a vibrant academic community at Harvard University, known for its intellectual rigor, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global impact. Scholars benefit from access to world-class faculty, state-of-the-art research facilities, and a network of peers and alumni who are leaders in their fields worldwide.

The Presidential Scholarship not only recognizes academic excellence but also empowers scholars to contribute significantly to their fields of study and society at large, reflecting Harvard’s enduring commitment to advancing knowledge and preparing future leaders and innovators.

Gates Millennium Scholars Program

The Gates Millennium Scholars Program stands as a transformative initiative aimed at supporting minority students, including international students, who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential across all fields of study. Established in 1999 and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this prestigious scholarship program aims to promote diversity and equity in higher education by providing comprehensive financial support and fostering community engagement.

Eligibility for the Gates Millennium Scholars Program is open to minority students from various ethnic backgrounds who have achieved outstanding academic performance and exhibit strong leadership qualities. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to community service and overcoming adversity, embodying the program’s values of academic excellence and social responsibility.

The benefits of the program are extensive, covering full tuition expenses for undergraduate and graduate studies, including master’s and doctoral programs. Additionally, scholars receive support for living expenses, textbooks, and other educational costs, enabling them to focus on their studies and personal development without financial burden.

The application deadline for the Gates Millennium Scholars Program for the upcoming cycle is January 15, 2025. Prospective applicants must submit a comprehensive application package, which typically includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays detailing their achievements and goals, and a description of their community service and leadership experiences.

Beyond financial assistance, Gates Millennium Scholars become part of a supportive network of alumni and mentors who provide guidance and opportunities for professional growth. This community-driven approach empowers scholars to make a meaningful impact in their communities and fields of study, reflecting the program’s commitment to fostering inclusive excellence and preparing future leaders who will contribute to positive societal change on a global scale.

Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships

The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships provide a unique opportunity for international students to pursue graduate-level coursework or research in fields aligned with Rotary’s areas of focus. Established by Rotary International, these scholarships aim to foster international understanding and collaboration in addressing global challenges.

Eligible applicants include students from around the world who are committed to making a positive impact in one of the following areas: peace and conflict prevention/resolution, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, and economic and community development. This broad scope allows applicants to align their academic pursuits with Rotary’s humanitarian priorities.

The benefits of the Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships include funding for tuition, fees, and other educational expenses related to coursework or research. Scholars may also receive support for living expenses, travel costs, and international educational experiences, depending on the specific terms of the grant.

Application deadlines for these scholarships vary, typically depending on the local Rotary club or district through which the applicant applies. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact their local Rotary representatives or visit the Rotary International website for detailed information on deadlines and application procedures.

Beyond financial support, Global Grant Scholars become part of Rotary’s extensive network of professionals, leaders, and volunteers dedicated to humanitarian service. Scholars are encouraged to participate in Rotary activities and engage with local communities to apply their academic knowledge and skills in meaningful ways, fostering sustainable development and global cooperation.

By supporting graduate-level study and research in critical areas of global need, the Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships empower scholars to contribute effectively to Rotary’s mission of advancing goodwill and peace worldwide.

PEO International Peace Scholarship

The PEO International Peace Scholarship is a significant opportunity for women from countries outside the United States and Canada to pursue graduate study in any field at accredited institutions in those countries. Established in 1949 by the PEO Sisterhood, a philanthropic organization dedicated to empowering women through education, this scholarship aims to promote international understanding and peace through education.

Eligible applicants must be female citizens of a country other than the United States or Canada, with demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to contributing positively to their communities and countries upon completion of their studies. The scholarship supports graduate-level study in any field of the recipient’s choice, enabling women to advance their education and careers regardless of academic discipline.

The benefits of the PEO International Peace Scholarship include up to $12,500 annually, which can be used to cover tuition fees, books, living expenses, and other educational costs associated with the recipient’s study program. This financial support alleviates financial burdens and allows scholars to focus on their academic and professional development.

The application deadline for the PEO International Peace Scholarship for the upcoming cycle is December 15, 2024. Applicants must submit a comprehensive application package, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose outlining their educational and career goals, and evidence of their commitment to serving their communities.

Beyond financial assistance, recipients of the PEO International Peace Scholarship join a network of women leaders and scholars committed to promoting educational opportunities and fostering global understanding. This network provides mentorship, professional development opportunities, and a supportive community that encourages lifelong connections and contributions to peace and equity worldwide.

Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program represents a pivotal opportunity for citizens from World Bank member countries to pursue graduate studies in development-related fields at renowned universities around the world. Established in 1987 through the partnership between the Government of Japan and the World Bank, this scholarship aims to cultivate future leaders who can contribute effectively to the development efforts in their home countries and beyond.

Eligible applicants must be nationals of a World Bank member country, with a strong commitment to addressing development challenges through their academic pursuits. The program prioritizes fields such as economics, health, education, sustainable development, and governance, equipping scholars with the knowledge and skills needed to drive social and economic progress in their communities.

The benefits of the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program are comprehensive, covering tuition fees, a monthly living stipend to cover accommodation and day-to-day expenses, round-trip airfare to the host university, health insurance, and a travel allowance for attending conferences and other educational activities. These provisions ensure that scholars can fully focus on their studies and research without financial concerns.

Application procedures and deadlines for the scholarship program vary annually, typically involving a competitive selection process based on academic merit, professional experience, and potential for impact in development practice. Prospective applicants are advised to consult the official program website for detailed eligibility criteria and application instructions.

Beyond financial support, scholars benefit from access to a global network of professionals and experts in development, as well as opportunities for internships and practical experience with the World Bank Group. This comprehensive approach not only enhances scholars’ academic and professional growth but also prepares them to make meaningful contributions to sustainable development efforts worldwide, embodying the program’s commitment to fostering global prosperity and equity.