Fully Funded Scholarships in The US
Surely you see your future in the US and that's why you’re reading this article. So let's know about fully funded scholarships that will help your path easy.
The United States has been a top destination for higher education, attracting students from all over the world. To help make this world-class education more accessible, many American universities and organizations offer scholarship programs designed to support the brightest minds, no matter their financial situation. Fully funded scholarships, which cover everything from tuition to living expenses, are a game-changer, allowing talented international students to chase their academic dreams in the U.S. without worrying about the cost.
These scholarships have a rich history, often rooted in philanthropy, government support, and university endowments. Take the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, for example—it’s been around since 1946 and has awarded over 400,000 scholarships to students and professionals from more than 160 countries. Each year, over 4,000 Fulbright scholarships are handed out worldwide, making it one of the most prestigious scholarship programs out there.
Fully Funded vs Partially Funded Scholarships
When it comes to scholarships for international students in the U.S., it's important to know the difference between fully funded and partially funded options, as well as how common they are and what they mean for students.
Fully Funded Scholarships
These cover all your educational expenses—tuition, living costs, travel, and sometimes even books and health insurance.
- Stat: They're pretty rare and super competitive. For example, the Fulbright Program offers about 4,000 scholarships annually, which is a small number compared to the over 1 million international students in the U.S.
- Impact: With these, you can focus entirely on your studies without stressing over money.
Partially Funded Scholarships
These only cover part of your costs, like just tuition or living expenses. You'll need to find other ways to cover the rest—through personal savings, loans, or other scholarships.
- Stat: More common than fully funded scholarships. Many schools offer partial scholarships, covering anywhere from 10% to 50% of tuition. A survey showed that around 70% of scholarships for international students are partially funded.
- Impact: While helpful, these still leave you with significant financial responsibilities, which might mean extra stress and needing to find other funding, like part-time work or loans.
Statistics About Fully Funded Scholarships
Top universities like Yale, Stanford, and MIT also have awesome financial aid programs for both U.S. and international students. Yale, for instance, has a super generous need-based financial aid system that ensures all admitted students can afford to attend, no matter their financial background. During the 2023-2024 academic year, Yale awarded over $210 million in scholarships, benefiting more than half of its students. Meanwhile, Stanford’s Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, which started in 2016, fully covers tuition and living expenses for up to 100 new students from around the globe every year.
Other scholarship programs, like the Rotary Peace Fellowships and AAUW International Fellowships, target specific fields such as peace and conflict resolution or supporting women in higher education. These programs offer hundreds of scholarships each year, contributing to global efforts in peace, equality, and development.
More About These Scholarships
Some universities, like Berea College and Soka University, have even made full scholarships a central part of their mission, offering full funding to every international student they admit. Berea College has been doing this since 1855, focusing on students with limited financial resources. They fully fund around 1,500 students each year.
These scholarships don’t just provide financial support—they also help create a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive academic environment, encouraging cross-cultural exchange and global collaboration. The growing number of fully funded scholarships in the U.S. shows the country’s commitment to making its top-notch education system accessible to students from all walks of life.
What is Scholarships, Grant and Fellowship
Before seeing the list you must know the difference between scholarships, grants, and fellowships which are described below:
Scholarships
Free money for school, is given out based on things like good grades, sports skills, or financial needs.
Scholarships can range from a few hundred dollars to full tuition coverage. For example, the Gates Millennium Scholars program offers up to $30,000 per year. According to Scholarship America, there are more than 1.7 million scholarships available in the U.S.
Types:
- Merit-Based: For students who shine academically, athletically, or artistically.
- Need-Based: For those who need a little extra help with their school bills.
- Specific: For students studying certain subjects or belonging to certain groups.
Success Rate: The average success rate for scholarship applications can vary widely, but many are competitive with rates as low as 5-10% for large, prestigious scholarships.
Repayment: Nope, you don’t have to pay it back!
Grants
Financial help for school that you don’t have to repay, is usually given to those who need it.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, about 60% of undergraduate students receive some form of federal grant aid.
Types:
- Federal Grants: Like the Pell Grant, which helps out if your family doesn’t make a lot of money.
- State Grants: From your state government, often based on need or academic performance.
- Institutional Grants: Offered by your college or university to help with the costs.
Success Rate: Over 7 million students receive federal grants each year.
Repayment: Nope, you’re good—no repayment required!
Fellowships
Financial support for doing advanced study or research, often aimed at grad students or those with a bit more experience.
Fellowships can range from $5,000 to over $50,000, depending on the program and its scope. For instance, the Fulbright Program offers grants that cover living expenses, travel, and sometimes tuition.
Types:
- Research Fellowships: For working on cool research projects.
- Teaching Fellowships: For teaching while you’re studying.
- Professional Fellowships: For gaining experience in a specific field.
Success Rate: Fellowships are highly competitive, with acceptance rates often ranging from 5% to 20%.
Repayment: Not required—just enjoy the support!
Fully Funded Scholarships for Undergrad Students
Here is a list of the top 10 fully funded scholarships for undergrad students in the US especially for international students:
1. Clark Global Scholarship Program
Clark University has always emphasized making education accessible, which is why they established the Clark Global Scholarship Program. This scholarship is all about recognizing your academic excellence and leadership potential, making sure talented students from around the world can afford a quality education. Clark University typically awards around 15-20 of these scholarships each year, covering full tuition and other essential expenses.
- Eligibility: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Clark University.
- Coverage: This scholarship covers full tuition (worth up to $25,000 per year), living expenses, and travel costs, depending on financial need.
- Application Details: Submit both a scholarship application and an admission application to Clark University.
- Website: Clark Global Scholarship Program
2. Yale University Scholarship
Yale has a long-standing tradition of providing generous financial aid to ensure that students from all economic backgrounds can afford their education. Each year, Yale awards need-based financial aid to over half of its undergraduate students. With a focus on making education accessible to all, Yale’s financial aid can fully cover tuition, room, and board, depending on your demonstrated financial need.More than $210 million in scholarships each year.
- Eligibility: Open to international students applying for undergraduate studies at Yale University.
- Coverage: Yale’s need-based financial aid covers full tuition, room, board, and other expenses (totaling over $80,000 per year for students with significant financial need).
- Application Details: Submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile along with your Yale application.
- Website: Yale University Scholarship
3. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
American University is committed to developing global leaders, and the Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is designed to support international students who have demonstrated leadership potential and a dedication to social change. Every year, one outstanding student is selected for this prestigious award, which covers full tuition, room, and board.
- Eligibility: International students who have demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to positive social change.
- Coverage: This scholarship covers full tuition (worth $54,000 per year), room, board, and fees for undergraduate studies.
- Application Details: Apply for admission to American University and submit a separate scholarship application.
- Website: American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship
4. Brandeis University Wien International Scholarship Program
The Wien International Scholarship Program at Brandeis University has been supporting high-achieving international students for more than 60 years. This program recognizes your academic excellence and contributions to your community. Each year, around 15-20 students receive full funding, which includes tuition and support for living expenses.
- Eligibility: High-achieving international students applying for undergraduate programs at Brandeis University.
- Coverage: The scholarship provides full funding, including tuition (worth around $60,000 per year) and living expenses.
- Application Details: Apply for admission to Brandeis University and indicate your interest in the Wien Scholarship.
- Website: Brandeis University Wien International Scholarship Program
5. University of Memphis Scholarship
The University of Memphis offers a generous scholarship program designed to attract talented international students. This scholarship provides full tuition coverage and additional support to help with living expenses, making a Memphis education more accessible.
- Eligibility: International students pursuing undergraduate studies at the University of Memphis.
- Coverage: This scholarship covers full tuition (worth up to $24,000 per year) and additional living expenses.
- Application Details: Apply for admission to the University of Memphis and submit a scholarship application.
- Website: University of Memphis Scholarship
6. University of Southern California (USC) International Merit Scholarship
USC is committed to recognizing academic excellence, and the International Merit Scholarship is designed to support top-performing international students. Each year, USC awards several merit-based scholarships, with some covering the full cost of tuition.
- Eligibility: International undergraduate students with outstanding academic records applying to USC.
- Coverage: Scholarships vary, with some covering full tuition (worth up to $64,000 per year).
- Application Details: Apply for admission to USC and indicate your interest in merit scholarships.
- Website: USC International Merit Scholarship
7. Davis United World College Scholars Program
The Davis UWC Scholars Program was created to support graduates of United World Colleges who are pursuing their higher education at U.S. institutions. This program is one of the largest privately funded international scholarship programs, providing full tuition scholarships to thousands of students each year.
- Eligibility: International students who have completed their education at a United World College.
- Coverage: Full tuition scholarships (worth up to $50,000 per year) for students attending participating U.S. colleges.
- Application Details: Apply to a participating college and indicate your UWC background.
- Website: Davis UWC Scholars Program
8. Alfred University International Student Scholarships
Alfred University offers a variety of scholarships for international students, with their top awards covering full tuition. These scholarships are designed to recognize your academic achievements and help you pursue your education at Alfred.
- Eligibility: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Alfred University.
- Coverage: Awards can be up to $20,000 annually, with some scholarships covering full tuition (worth around $35,000 per year).
- Application Details: Apply for admission to Alfred University and indicate your interest in scholarships.
- Website: Alfred University International Student Scholarships
9. Soka University of America International Students Scholarship
Soka University of America is dedicated to making education accessible to students from all over the world. Their international student scholarship provides full tuition, room, and board, allowing you to focus on your studies without financial worry.
- Eligibility: International students seeking a liberal arts education at Soka University of America.
- Coverage: Full tuition, room, and board (worth approximately $45,000 per year).
- Application Details: Apply for admission to Soka University and indicate your international status.
- Website: Soka University of America International Students Scholarship
10. Berea College Scholarship
Berea College is unique in that it covers full tuition for every student it admits, including international students. In addition to tuition, Berea provides work-study opportunities that help cover living expenses, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed.
- Eligibility: International students accepted for enrollment at Berea College.
- Coverage: Full tuition (worth around $44,000 per year), plus work-study opportunities to cover living expenses.
- Application Details: Apply for admission to Berea College and indicate your interest in financial aid.
- Website: Berea College Scholarship
Fully Funded Scholarships for Master's/PhD Students
You are older than that! Ok now for you here is a list of the top 10 fully funded scholarships for Master's/PhD Students in the US:
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships worldwide, offering full funding for international students to pursue graduate studies in the U.S. Established in 1946, the program has helped over 400,000 students and professionals from more than 160 countries. Each year, over 4,000 Fulbright scholarships are awarded, covering everything from tuition to living expenses.Fulbright Foreign Student Program: Over 4,000 scholarships globally.
- Eligibility: International students pursuing a master’s or PhD in the U.S.
- Coverage: The scholarship covers full tuition, airfare, a living stipend, and health insurance.
- Application Details: Apply through your home country’s Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy.
- Website: Fulbright Foreign Student Program
2. Rotary Peace Fellowships
The Rotary Peace Fellowships have been around since 2002, supporting peace and conflict resolution efforts globally. This fellowship funds graduate studies in peace and conflict resolution at select universities. Each year, Rotary awards up to 130 fellowships, covering full tuition, room, board, and travel expenses.
- Eligibility: Graduate students pursuing master’s degrees in peace and conflict resolution.
- Coverage: Full tuition, fees, room, board, and travel expenses (worth up to $50,000 per year).
- Application Details: Apply through a Rotary club in your home country.
- Website: Rotary Peace Fellowships
3. East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowships
The East-West Center, founded in 1960, has been promoting regional cooperation and understanding between Asia, the Pacific, and the U.S. for decades. Their Graduate Degree Fellowships provide funding for up to 24 months of study, covering everything from tuition to living expenses. Each year, the East-West Center awards around 50 fellowships.
- Eligibility: Graduate students from Asia and the Pacific.
- Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs (worth up to $50,000 per year).
- Application Details: Apply for admission to a participating university and indicate your interest in the fellowship.
- Website: East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowships
4. AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) has been supporting women through education since 1881. Their International Fellowships provide funding to women pursuing graduate studies in the U.S., with awards of $18,000 to $30,000 annually.
- Eligibility: International women pursuing graduate or postgraduate studies in the U.S.
- Coverage: Funding ranges from $18,000 to $30,000 per year, covering tuition, fees, and living expenses.
- Application Details: Apply directly to AAUW with your academic and professional information.
- Website: AAUW International Fellowships
5. ACI Foundation Scholarship
The American Concrete Institute (ACI) Foundation supports graduate students in civil engineering and related fields. Their scholarship program provides full tuition coverage and living expenses, helping you advance your studies without financial worry.
- Eligibility: Graduate students in civil engineering or related fields.
- Coverage: Full tuition and living expenses, worth approximately $40,000 per year.
- Application Details: Apply through the ACI Foundation’s online portal.
- Website: ACI Foundation Scholarship
6. University of Oregon International Graduate Student Scholarships
The University of Oregon is dedicated to supporting international graduate students through various scholarships and fellowships. Each year, a number of full tuition scholarships are awarded, helping make a graduate education at Oregon more affordable.
- Eligibility: International students pursuing graduate studies at the University of Oregon.
- Coverage: Full tuition scholarships (worth up to $30,000 per year).
- Application Details: Apply for admission to the University of Oregon and indicate your interest in scholarships.
- Website: University of Oregon International Graduate Student Scholarships
7. University of Chicago International Student Scholarships
The University of Chicago is committed to making a world-class education accessible, and their international student scholarships provide full funding for selected graduate students. These scholarships can cover tuition and living expenses, ensuring you can focus on your studies.
- Eligibility: International students pursuing graduate studies at the University of Chicago.
- Coverage: Full tuition and living expenses (worth up to $60,000 per year).
- Application Details: Apply for admission to the University of Chicago and indicate your interest in scholarships.
- Website: University of Chicago International Student Scholarships
8. Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University is designed to support the best and brightest students from around the world. With an endowment of $750 million, this program funds up to 100 scholars each year, providing full tuition and living expenses.
- Eligibility: International graduate students pursuing studies at Stanford University.
- Coverage: Full tuition and living expenses (worth approximately $80,000 per year).
- Application Details: Apply for admission to Stanford and separately apply for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program.
- Website: Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
9. MIT Graduate Fellowships
MIT offers various graduate fellowships to help you pursue advanced studies in science, technology, and engineering. These fellowships provide full tuition coverage, as well as living stipends, supporting your research and academic pursuits at one of the world’s top institutions.
- Eligibility: Graduate students pursuing studies at MIT.
- Coverage: Full tuition and living stipends (worth up to $70,000 per year).
- Application Details: Apply for admission to MIT and indicate your interest in fellowships.
- Website: MIT Graduate Fellowships
10. University of Wisconsin-Madison Graduate School Fellowships
The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers various fellowships to support international graduate students. Each year, a number of full tuition fellowships are awarded, providing living stipends and making your graduate education at Wisconsin more accessible.
- Eligibility: International students pursuing graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
- Coverage: Full tuition and living expenses (worth up to $50,000 per year).
- Application Details: Apply for admission to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and indicate your interest in fellowships.
- Website: University of Wisconsin-Madison Graduate School Fellowships
FAQs
What is a fully funded scholarship?
- A fully funded scholarship covers all costs associated with your education, including tuition, living expenses, travel, and sometimes even books and health insurance. It aims to eliminate the financial burden on students, allowing them to focus solely on their studies.
How competitive are fully funded scholarships?
- Fully funded scholarships are highly competitive due to their comprehensive coverage and limited availability. For instance, the Fulbright Program, which is one of the most prestigious, offers about 4,000 scholarships annually but competes with over 1 million international students in the US.
Are there fully-funded scholarships available for undergraduate and graduate students?
- Yes, fully funded scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate students. Examples include the Clark Global Scholarship Program for undergraduates and the Fulbright Foreign Student Program for graduate students.
What are the main differences between fully funded and partially funded scholarships?
- Fully funded scholarships cover all educational expenses, while partially funded scholarships only cover part of the costs. For example, partially funded scholarships might cover only tuition or living expenses, leaving you to find additional funds.
How can I apply for a fully funded scholarship?
- To apply, you generally need to apply for admission to the university or program and separately submit a scholarship application. Specific requirements and application processes vary by scholarship, so be sure to check the details on each program's website.
What types of fully funded scholarships are available?
- There are various types, including merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and fellowships for specific fields or purposes. Examples include the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University and the Rotary Peace Fellowships.
Are fully funded scholarships available for international students?
- Yes, many fully funded scholarships are specifically designed for international students. Programs such as the Davis UWC Scholars Program and the AAUW International Fellowships support students from around the world.
Can I combine fully funded scholarships with other forms of financial aid?
- This depends on the scholarship’s terms and the policies of the institution providing the aid. Some fully funded scholarships may restrict you from combining them with other financial aid, while others might allow it. Always check the specific guidelines of each scholarship.