We have curated an extensive compilation of fully-funded scholarships available for international students. While this list is not exhaustive, it offers a comprehensive overview of the scholarship opportunities that exist.
What are Fully Funded Scholarships?
We define fully funded scholarships as scholarships that cover full tuition and living expenses. If a scholarship meets this criterion, we consider it fully funded. It’s important to note that this differs from full-tuition scholarships, which only cover tuition fees.
Certain fully funded scholarships for international students, including those offered by governments, may also provide additional benefits such as airline tickets and language programs. These additional perks will be included in the scholarships mentioned in this article.
Is there a Difference Between Full-Ride and Fully Funded Scholarships?
No, both terms mean the same thing. Full-ride and fully funded scholarships indicate that the scholarships cover full tuition, room, and board for undergraduate students, and full tuition and a living stipend for master’s and Ph.D. students. While the term full-ride scholarships is often used for undergraduate scholarships, there is no distinction between these two terms.
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How Do International Students Qualify for Fully Funded Scholarships?
The eligibility requirements for these scholarships vary depending on the specific scholarship. However, most scholarships require applicants to achieve high scores on English proficiency exams such as TOEFL and IELTS, as well as relevant standardized tests like SAT/ACT for prospective undergraduate students and GRE for prospective graduate students. Additionally, excellent grades and strong recommendations are usually necessary.
It’s important to note that only a fraction of international students who meet these criteria actually receive fully funded scholarships. Often, there are more qualified students than available seats, so it is advisable to apply for multiple scholarships to increase the chances of securing a fully funded scholarship.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
1. Harvard University Scholarship
– Scholarship Amount for Master’s and Ph.D.: Full tuition and a living stipend
Harvard University is a prestigious private Ivy League research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Established in 1636, it is renowned globally and boasts an acceptance rate of only 5.4%. The university has produced numerous notable alumni, including eight U.S. presidents and numerous Nobel Laureates.
Full-time resident doctoral students at the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences at Harvard University receive comprehensive financial support, including a fully funded scholarship that covers tuition, a stipend, health insurance, and other benefits for a duration of five years. Master’s and Ph.D. students can also apply for research and teaching assistantships, which cover tuition and provide a living stipend. This scholarship presents an excellent opportunity for international students aiming to study at Harvard.
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2. University of Toronto Scholarships
– Scholarship Amount for Bachelor’s: Full tuition, book cost, and accommodation
The University of Toronto is a public research university situated in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It was founded as King’s College in 1827, making it the first institution of higher learning in Upper Canada. In 1850, it became a secular institution and adopted its present name. The university comprises eleven colleges and schools, with an enrollment of approximately 50,000 students.
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is a prestigious fully funded scholarship awarded to first-entry students nominated by their high schools. To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must have excellent academic standing and a history of leadership roles in extracurricular and community activities.
3. Yale University Scholarships
– Scholarship Amount for Ph.D.: Full tuition and basic health coverage
Yale University is a renowned private Ivy League research university located in New Haven, Connecticut. Founded in 1701, it is the third-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. As a member of the Association of American Universities, Yale
4. Princeton University Scholarships
Princeton University, a renowned private Ivy League research university located in Princeton, New Jersey, is recognized as one of the top 20 universities worldwide. The university is dedicated to ensuring accessibility to higher education for students from all corners of the globe. It extends its need-based financial aid program to international students, making it possible for applicants, regardless of their financial circumstances, to pursue their studies at Princeton.
Princeton University offers comprehensive scholarships that typically cover the entire cost of tuition and accommodation for undergraduate programs. For Master’s and Ph.D. students, the scholarships provide full tuition coverage and a living stipend, enabling students to focus on their academic pursuits without financial burdens.
Furthermore, graduate students have the opportunity to qualify for assistantships in instruction, which are forms of scholarships offered by Princeton University to international graduate students. These assistantships encompass various roles such as teaching assistantships, lab assistantships, and grading positions. The number of available assistantships and the hours assigned are determined based on the needs of each department and the students’ preferences.
5. Duke University Scholarships
Duke University, a prestigious private research university located in Durham, North Carolina, was established by Methodists and Quakers in the late 19th century. In 1924, the institution was renamed Duke University to honor its benefactor, James Buchanan Duke, a prominent figure in the tobacco and electric power industries.
Duke University offers several scholarships to support international students in their educational pursuits. The Karsh International Scholarship, available to qualifying international students, covers full tuition expenses along with room and board fees, and additional payments required by the university. It also provides research funding for three summers, offering valuable opportunities for academic development.
The Robertson Scholarship, open to both local and international applicants, recognizes individuals who demonstrate purposeful leadership, intellectual curiosity, strength of character, and a collaborative spirit. This scholarship, which requires a separate application, covers full tuition expenses.
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The Chancellor’s Scholarship, administered by the Duke University School of Medicine, rewards outstanding students pursuing Biomedical Sciences. In addition to tuition remission, this scholarship includes a stipend, health insurance coverage, and a one-time $5,000 signing bonus.
The Hung Taiwan-Duke University Fellowship is an exclusive scholarship program designed for Taiwanese students who aspire to study at Duke University. Through this fellowship, students can explore courses in disciplines such as Cell & Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Genetics & Genomics, and Cancer Biology.
6. MIT Scholarships
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a renowned private research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, emphasizes scientific and technological education and research. MIT comprises five schools and one college, encompassing 32 academic departments.
To apply for the Financial Need MIT scholarship for international students, prospective students must complete the College Board’s CSS Profile. Additionally, the College Board requires the submission of parents’ tax returns or wage statements, bank statements, investment records, and records of untaxed income.
MIT offers numerous fully funded scholarships to Master’s and Ph.D. students through graduate assistantships. These scholarships cover full tuition expenses and provide a monthly stipend. The number of scholarships awarded varies across different programs.
The Presidential Graduate Fellowship, recognized as MIT’s most prestigious fellowship, offers a tuition waiver and additional benefits to a select number of Ph.D. students. To be eligible for this honor, students must apply early, as the application deadline varies by department.
7. Agnes Scott College Marvin B. Perry Presidential Scholarships
Agnes Scott College, a small liberal arts college located in Decatur, Georgia, was founded in Atlanta in 1873 and relocated to its current location in 1895.
Through the Agnes Scott Presidential Scholarship, the college offers exceptional first-year students a full scholarship covering tuition, room, and board for
up to four years of study. Eligible students receive detailed information about the next steps in their admission letter.
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8. Hendrix College Hays Memorial Scholarship
Hendrix College, established in 1876, is a small liberal arts college situated in Conway, Arkansas. As the first higher education institution in Arkansas, Hendrix prioritizes intellectual engagement and personal growth over career-focused training, providing a distinctive educational experience for its students.
The Hays Memorial Scholarship, awarded to four incoming students annually, offers comprehensive financial support for four years of study at Hendrix College. This scholarship covers full tuition, room and board, and mandatory fees. Recipients of this scholarship exhibit exceptional potential for intellectual vitality and academic success.
9. Barry University Stamp Scholarships
Barry University, a private co-educational institution in Miami, Florida, offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines. Founded in 1940, Barry University’s main campus is situated on Biscayne Bay, featuring historical buildings used for classes and offices.
The Stamps Scholars Program at Barry University provides a multi-year, merit-based scholarship to students interested in pursuing their educational interests and developing leadership skills. This program offers financial aid that covers full tuition, room and board, and other educational expenses. Scholars can utilize this support for study abroad programs, cultural exchanges, research projects, and other enriching educational experiences.
10. Stanford University Scholarships
Stanford University, a renowned private research university located in Stanford, California, holds a prominent position within the Association of American Universities. It boasts highly regarded schools in business, engineering, law, medicine, and other sciences. Stanford University was founded in 1885 by Leland and Jane Stanford as a tribute to their deceased child.
While Stanford University offers some scholarships for international students, the majority of financial aid is provided based on demonstrated financial need. To qualify, applicants must submit a social security number or an individual taxpayer identification number with their admission application. Eligibility for financial aid is determined once the student is enrolled as a full-time student.
The Knight-Hennessy scholarship program aims to identify the most promising graduate students worldwide. Applicants must have completed their undergraduate degree after January 2015, be enrolled as full-time students, and intend to pursue graduate programs at Stanford. Priority is given to applicants planning to spend a minimum of two years studying at Stanford.
11. DAAD Scholarships
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers study opportunities in Germany for students from around the world. The DAAD Scholarship program encourages international mobility among students and researchers by providing funding for studies, research activities, and internships in Germany.
DAAD Scholarships are available to students accepted at German universities offering international programs. Students planning to study abroad in Germany should consider applying for a DAAD Scholarship. These fully funded scholarships cover tuition fees, provide a monthly stipend, and support other expenses associated with studying and living in Germany.
12. Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office and administered by British embassies worldwide, is a prestigious award bestowed upon international students pursuing studies in the United Kingdom.
To apply for a Chevening Award, students must first select a course and then choose from one of the three eligible programs, each lasting nine to twelve months and commencing in early autumn.
Chevening Scholarships are granted to exceptional students worldwide who aspire to study or conduct research in any subject at a UK university. These scholarships cover full tuition fees and provide an allowance for living expenses, visa costs, and arrival and departure allowances.
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