Top Scholarships in US Universities for International Students: Timelines and How to Apply

 Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students, but it comes with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, numerous scholarships in US universities can help ease the financial burden, offering students the chance to focus on their education without worrying as much about expenses. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best scholarships for international students, the amounts they provide, and their timelines, helping you plan your journey to studying in the US.

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

The Fulbright Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships for international students pursuing graduate or Ph.D. degrees in the US. Managed by the US government, it offers full funding, covering tuition, airfare, living stipends, and health insurance.

• Amount: Full tuition and other expenses.
• Eligibility: Open to students from 160+ countries. You must have a strong academic record and a clear research plan.
• Timeline: Applications generally open in February and close by October of the previous year before your intended study (e.g., for Fall 2025, apply between February and October 2024).

Given its competitiveness, early preparation and a strong research proposal are key to success.

2. AAUW International Fellowships

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers fellowships for women pursuing full-time graduate or postgraduate studies in the US. This program focuses on women who are not US citizens or permanent residents and supports leadership development and gender equality.

• Amount: $18,000 to $30,000, depending on the level of study.
• Eligibility: Must be a woman holding a non-immigrant visa and planning to return to your home country after completing your degree.
• Timeline: Applications open in August and close by November for the following academic year.

This fellowship is a fantastic opportunity for women committed to advancing their careers and empowering their communities.

3. Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford University

One of the most sought-after programs in the world, the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University is designed to build a multidisciplinary community of future global leaders. It supports up to three years of graduate study at Stanford in any field.

• Amount: Full tuition, living expenses, and a travel stipend.
• Eligibility: Open to all international students with leadership potential. You must apply to a graduate program at Stanford separately.
• Timeline: Applications open in April and the deadline is usually in October of the year before you plan to enroll.

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program places a strong emphasis on leadership and community service, so applicants with a vision for positive change are encouraged to apply.

4. The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program

The Humphrey Fellowship provides 10 months of non-degree academic study and professional development in the US. The program targets mid-career professionals from around the world, offering them an opportunity to enhance their skills in leadership, public service, and policy.

• Amount: Full coverage of tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance.
• Eligibility: Open to mid-career professionals with at least five years of work experience in public service or a related field.
• Timeline: The application cycle typically begins in April and closes in September for the next academic year.

This fellowship is unique in that it’s not focused on earning a degree but instead on leadership development and professional growth.

5. Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)

The JJ/WBGSP offers scholarships to students from developing countries to pursue a master’s degree in development-related fields at selected universities in the US, including Harvard, Columbia, and the University of Chicago.

• Amount: Full tuition, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, and health insurance.
• Eligibility: Must be from a developing country and hold a bachelor’s degree. You should also have at least three years of professional experience in a development-related field.
• Timeline: Applications generally open in March and close by May for programs starting in the fall.

This program focuses on empowering students to contribute to the socio-economic development of their home countries.

6. Yale University’s Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) Program

Although not a full scholarship for undergraduate or graduate studies, the Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) is an intensive academic program for high school students worldwide. It offers partial scholarships to selected students, providing an early introduction to top-level university learning.

• Amount: Need-based scholarships, covering 100% of program tuition for selected students.
• Eligibility: Open to high school students from all over the world.
• Timeline: Applications open in September and close by January for the summer program.

While this is not a scholarship for university study, it offers a unique academic experience for high school students aspiring to attend prestigious universities like Yale.

7. University-Specific Scholarships

Many US universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. Here are some notable ones:

• Harvard University: Harvard offers need-based scholarships, covering full tuition and living costs based on demonstrated financial need.

  • Amount: Full financial need coverage.
  • Timeline: Apply for financial aid along with your university application, typically by December 1 for regular admissions.

• Columbia University – International Student Financial Aid: Columbia offers financial aid packages to international students, based on need and merit.

  • Amount: Varies based on need.
  • Timeline: Submit your financial aid application with your university application, by January 1.

• University of Southern California – Merit Scholarships: USC offers merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students, with full or partial tuition coverage.

  • Amount: Up to full tuition.
  • Timeline: Apply by December 1 for merit scholarship consideration.

8. Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD)

The Global UGRAD program offers one-semester scholarships to undergraduate students from certain countries for non-degree study in the US. It's an exchange program funded by the US government.

• Amount: Covers tuition, travel, housing, and living expenses.
• Eligibility: Open to students from eligible countries with strong academic records and leadership potential.
• Timeline: Applications generally open in November and close in December.

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Conclusion: Start Early for the Best Results

Securing a scholarship in US universities can be a life-changing opportunity for international students, but preparation is key. Be sure to start researching scholarships early, pay attention to deadlines, and tailor your applications to highlight your achievements, aspirations, and financial need. With numerous options like the Fulbright, Knight-Hennessy, and university-specific scholarships, international students have many opportunities to make their dreams of studying in the US a reality.

Good luck, and may the stars align for your academic journey!