For international students, studying in the United States offers access to world-class education, but the cost can be a significant barrier.
Scholarships serve as a crucial resource to bridge this financial gap, offering opportunities to high-achieving students worldwide.
Did you know that over 1 million international students in the U.S. benefit from scholarships annually?
Here, we outline ten scholarships provided by leading universities in the U.S., detailing their eligibility requirements, benefits, and application processes to help you make an informed decision.
1. Harvard University Scholarships
Overview: Harvard University, known for its academic excellence, offers need-based scholarships to international students across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. For example, over 60% of Harvard students receive financial aid annually.
Eligibility:
- Academic excellence.
- Demonstrated financial need.
- Enrollment in a degree program at Harvard.
Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition coverage.
- Stipends for living expenses.
- Access to research and travel grants.
Application Process:
- Complete the financial aid application via the CSS Profile or Harvard Financial Aid Application.
- Provide supporting documents, including income statements and tax returns.
2. Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Overview: The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program at Stanford University funds graduate-level education for outstanding students with leadership potential. It is one of the most competitive programs, accepting only about 100 scholars annually.
Eligibility:
- Admission to a Stanford graduate program.
- Strong leadership qualities and civic mindset.
- Academic and extracurricular achievements.
Benefits:
- Full tuition and fees.
- Living stipends.
- Additional funds for academic enrichment.
Application Process:
- Submit an online application for the Knight-Hennessy program alongside your Stanford graduate program application.
- Provide a leadership essay and reference letters.
3. Yale University Scholarships
Overview: Yale University provides need-based financial aid to international students in undergraduate and graduate programs. Recent reports show Yale awards over $140 million in scholarships annually.
Eligibility:
- Admission to Yale University.
- Demonstrated financial need.
- Exceptional academic performance.
Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition coverage.
- Financial aid tailored to individual needs.
Application Process:
- Complete the CSS Profile and provide supporting financial documents.
- Meet the specific deadlines for undergraduate or graduate programs.
4. University of Chicago International Merit Scholarships
Overview: The University of Chicago offers merit-based scholarships to international students based on academic and extracurricular excellence. This program has funded thousands of students worldwide.
Eligibility:
- Outstanding academic records.
- Significant extracurricular achievements.
- Admission to an undergraduate or graduate program.
Benefits:
- Partial tuition coverage ranging from $5,000 to full tuition.
- Renewable annually based on academic performance.
Application Process:
- No separate application; all applicants are automatically considered.
- Submit a comprehensive application showcasing achievements.
5. Columbia University Scholarships
Overview: Columbia University provides financial aid and scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies. This includes need-based and merit-based options, benefiting thousands annually.
Eligibility:
- Admission to Columbia University.
- Financial need and academic merit.
Benefits:
- Partial to full tuition coverage.
- Additional stipends for housing and research opportunities.
Application Process:
- Complete the financial aid application via the CSS Profile or specific Columbia forms.
- Include detailed financial information and supporting documents.
6. University of Pennsylvania (Penn) Scholarships
Overview: Penn offers need-based financial aid to international students in undergraduate programs and specific scholarships for graduate students. This university has a strong commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need.
Eligibility:
- Admission to Penn.
- Demonstrated financial need and academic excellence.
Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition coverage.
- Additional funding for living and academic expenses.
Application Process:
- Submit a financial aid application via the CSS Profile.
- Provide tax returns, income statements, and any other required documentation.
7. MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) Scholarships
Overview: MIT provides need-based scholarships for international students, focusing on undergraduate programs. Approximately 58% of MIT students receive financial aid annually.
Eligibility:
- Admission to MIT.
- Demonstrated financial need.
- High academic achievements.
Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition funding.
- Additional support for housing and other expenses.
Application Process:
- Complete the CSS Profile.
- Submit required financial documents, including tax returns and income verification.
8. Princeton University Scholarships
Overview: Princeton University offers generous need-based financial aid to international undergraduate students, with all aid provided as grants rather than loans.
Eligibility:
- Admission to Princeton University.
- Demonstrated financial need.
Benefits:
- Full tuition and additional support for living expenses.
- No loans; all aid is grant-based.
Application Process:
- Submit the Princeton Financial Aid Application or the CSS Profile.
- Include all required financial documentation.
9. Duke University Karsh International Scholarship
Overview: This merit-based scholarship is awarded to exceptional international undergraduate students. The program emphasizes leadership and global impact.
Eligibility:
- Admission to Duke University.
- Demonstrated leadership and academic excellence.
Benefits:
- Full tuition.
- Research and summer internship funding.
- Mentorship opportunities.
Application Process:
- No separate application; candidates are considered automatically.
- Submit a compelling undergraduate application highlighting achievements.
10. University of California, Berkeley Scholarships
Overview: UC Berkeley provides a variety of scholarships for international students, including merit-based and need-based options. It is one of the most inclusive programs in the U.S.
Eligibility:
- Admission to UC Berkeley.
- Academic excellence and/or financial need.
Benefits:
- Partial to full tuition coverage.
- Access to research funding and academic resources.
Application Process:
- Complete the UC Application for Admission and Scholarships.
- Provide all necessary financial and academic documents.
Tips for Securing a Scholarship
- Start Early: Research and begin the application process at least a year before your intended start date.
- Tailor Your Application: Highlight your unique strengths, achievements, and goals.
- Follow Instructions: Ensure all forms, essays, and documents meet the specific requirements.
- Seek Guidance: Consult academic advisors or professionals to refine your application.
- Prepare for Interviews: Some scholarships may require an interview, so practice articulating your goals and experiences.
Pursuing higher education in the United States is an investment in your future, and scholarships make it more accessible. Each university on this list offers unique opportunities to support international students financially and academically. Explore these scholarships today and take the next step toward securing your educational journey!