Fully funded scholarships in the USA are life-changing opportunities for international students, covering tuition, living expenses, and more. These scholarships remove financial barriers, enabling students to access world-class education without incurring heavy debt.
From fully funded master’s programs in the USA for international students to scholarships for Indian students aspiring to study in the USA, these opportunities cater to diverse needs.
Here are the reasons why fully funded scholarships are important for international students:
Rising tuition fees make scholarships essential for pursuing higher education in the USA.
They address financial challenges while promoting academic excellence.
Scholarships ensure education accessibility for international students.
Fully funded programs eliminate the need for part-time jobs, allowing students to focus on their studies.
They enhance career prospects and global opportunities for recipients.
This blog explores fully funded scholarships for international students, especially Indians, in the USA, highlighting opportunities that transform aspirations into reality.
Studying in the USA is a dream for many international students, but the high cost of education can often be a significant barrier. Studying in the USA can be financially challenging for international students. As we mentioned above, fully funded scholarships address this by covering tuition, living expenses, and other costs, enabling students to pursue undergraduate, master’s, MBA, or PhD programs without financial stress.
Below are some of the most impactful scholarships that provide the financial and academic support needed to excel in top US institutions.
Fulbright Foreign Student Program
Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford University)
Yale University Scholarships
Harvard University Scholarships
Fully Funded Scholarships for Bachelors
Pursuing a bachelor's degree in the USA can be a transformative experience, but the cost of education can be a barrier. Fully funded scholarships provide a solution, covering tuition, living expenses, and more, making higher education accessible to talented students worldwide.
Below is a curated list of top scholarships in the USA, including options tailored for Indian students.
Onsi Sawiris Scholarship
The Onsi Sawiris Scholarship is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships for international students in the USA. It provides comprehensive financial support, covering full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
The scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to contributing positively to their communities.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Undergraduate, Master's
Eligibility
Academic excellence, leadership potential
University/Organization
Harvard University, Stanford University, University of Chicago, University of Pennsylvania
Treasure Scholarship at Boise State University
The Treasure Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for international undergraduate students at Boise State University. This scholarship awards an annual stipend of $8,460 ( INR 7 lakhs) significantly reducing tuition costs.
Eligible students are automatically considered for the scholarship upon submitting a complete application and meeting the university's academic criteria. This program aims to attract talented international students to Boise State University and supports them in pursuing a world-class education.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Undergraduate
Eligibility
Meet academic standards
University/Organization
Boise State University
Yale University Scholarship USA
The Yale University Scholarship is a fully funded program for international students, offering financial support for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies. The scholarship is need-based, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $70,000 ( INR 43 lakhs-INR 60 lakhs) annually, depending on the student's demonstrated financial need.
Yale University is one of the Ivy League schools renowned for academic excellence and leadership development, making this scholarship a gateway for international students to access top-tier education and resources.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Undergraduate, Graduate, Doctoral
Eligibility
Academic and financial need
University/Organization
Yale University
ACI Foundation Scholarship
The ACI Foundation Scholarship is a fully funded program for international students pursuing studies in construction-related fields. This scholarship provides a stipend of $10,000 ( INR 8 lakhs) to cover tuition, living expenses, books, and supplies.
The scholarship is designed to support students with outstanding academic records and significant contributions to the field. It aims to foster the next generation of leaders in the construction and materials industries through financial support and recognition.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Undergraduate, Graduate, Doctoral
Eligibility
Academic excellence, field-related achievements
University/Organization
ACI Foundation
Fulbright Student Program at SUNY Brockport
TheFulbright Student Program offers research, study, and teaching opportunities in over 140 countries. It is designed for recent graduates, graduate students, and young professionals. This program supports projects in academic, creative, and teaching fields, fostering cultural exchange and professional development.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Graduate, Postgraduate
Eligibility
U.S. citizens who are graduating seniors, recent graduates, master’s or doctoral candidates, and young professionals
University/Organization
SUNY Brockport (as part of the Fulbright Program)
Tata Scholarship at Cornell University
The Tata Scholarship at Cornell University, funded by India’s Tata Group, is a fully funded scholarship for Indian students pursuing undergraduate studies. It ensures that academically exceptional students from India can access a world-class education without financial barriers.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Undergraduate
Eligibility
Indian nationals pursuing undergraduate degrees at Cornell University
University/Organization
Cornell University (funded by Tata Education and Development Trust)
Pursuing a master’s degree in the USA can be a transformative opportunity for international students. Fully funded scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and other essential costs, making higher education accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides comprehensive funding for master’s programs in various fields. This program emphasizes cultural exchange and academic excellence, supporting students from over 140 countries.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Master’s
Eligibility
International students from 140+ countries
University/Organization
Fulbright Program (multiple U.S. universities)
Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University offers fully funded opportunities for graduate studies. It focuses on leadership development and interdisciplinary education to prepare scholars for addressing global challenges.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Graduate (Master’s, Doctoral)
Eligibility
Open to graduate applicants at Stanford
University/Organization
Stanford University
Yale University Scholarships
Yale University offers need-based and merit-based scholarships for graduate students, including international applicants. The program ensures financial accessibility for academically outstanding students.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Graduate
Eligibility
Open to all graduate students, including international applicants
University/Organization
Yale University
Clark University Scholarships
Clark University provides global scholarships for international students, offering significant financial aid for master’s programs. These scholarships are designed for students with strong academic achievements and leadership potential.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Master’s
Eligibility
International students with strong academic performance
University/Organization
Clark University
SUNY Stony Brook – Graduate International Scholarships
SUNY Stony Brook offers competitive scholarships for international students pursuing master's programs. These scholarships are designed to attract and support academically exceptional students, particularly from underrepresented regions, including India.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Master’s
Eligibility
International students, including Indian nationals
University/Organization
SUNY Stony Brook
Stanford University Scholarships
Stanford University offers fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing master's or doctorate programs. These scholarships cover all living expenses, travel costs, tuition fees, and additional educational costs. The program includes funding for fully funded MBA scholarships in USA, providing an unparalleled opportunity for global students to access world-class education.
Category
Details
Level of Study
Master’s, Doctoral
Eligibility
Open to international students enrolling in graduate programs
Pursuing a PhD in the USA is a transformative experience, and fully funded scholarships make it accessible for international students. These scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and research funding, enabling students to focus on academic and professional growth. Below are some of the top scholarships for international students in the US for a Ph.D., including funding opportunities offered by SUNY colleges and their affiliates.
PhD in Biological Sciences in Public Health at Harvard University
Harvard University offers a fully funded PhD program in Biological Sciences in Public Health. The program focuses on disease prevention and treatment, covering areas like AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria, and tuberculosis. It provides comprehensive funding, including full tuition, a stipend, and health insurance for five years.
Category
Details
Level of Study
PhD
Eligibility
Maintain satisfactory academic progress; international students receive the same benefits
University/Organization
Harvard University, T.H. Chan School of Public Health
PhD in Business at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT’s PhD in Business program at the Sloan School of Management offers fully funded opportunities in organization studies, accounting, and information technology.
Students receive full tuition, a monthly stipend of $4,654 ( INR 4 lakhs), medical insurance of $3,237 ( INR 3 lakhs) laptops of $2,000 ( INR 2 lakhs), and $4,500 ( INR 4 lakhs)for conference travel over five years.
Category
Details
Level of Study
PhD
Eligibility
Maintain good academic standing
University/Organization
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sloan School of Management
PhD in Business at Rice University
Rice University’s fully funded PhD program in Business supports research and teaching in fields like accounting, finance, and strategic management. The program includes a tuition waiver and an annual stipend of $40,000 ( INR 34 lakhs)
Category
Details
Level of Study
PhD
Eligibility
Maintain satisfactory academic progress and full-time student status
University/Organization
Rice University, Jones Graduate School of Business
PhD in Business at the University of Lowa
The University of Iowa offers a fully funded PhD in Business program with additional support for research presentations, summer fellowships, and independent study. Students receive tuition and fee waivers, an annual stipend, and comprehensive health insurance.
Category
Details
Level of Study
PhD
Eligibility
Virtually all admitted students receive funding
University/Organization
University of Iowa, Ivy College of Business
PhD in Chemical Engineering at Cornell University
Cornell University provides full funding for its PhD in Chemical Engineering program through assistantships and fellowships. Students receive a nine-month stipend of $32,494 ( INR 28 lakhs) or an annual stipend of $43,326 ( INR 37 lakhs) along with tuition waivers and summer support.
Category
Details
Level of Study
PhD
Eligibility
Maintain satisfactory academic progress
University/Organization
Cornell University
Which are the Top Universities Offering Scholarships in the USA?
Many prestigious universities in the USA offer scholarships for international students, including tailored opportunities for Indian students. These scholarships cater to diverse academic levels, fields of study, and financial needs, making higher education accessible to a global audience.
Below is a list of top universities offering scholarships to study in the USA for Indian students.
$1,000 to $7,000 per year( INR 85 thousand - 6 lakhs) Presidential Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria for Fully Funded Scholarships
When applying for scholarships in the USA, understanding the eligibility requirements is crucial. These criteria help determine if you qualify for programs like a scholarship to study in the USA for Indian students, fully funded MBA scholarships for international students in the USA, or a fully funded master's program in the USA.
Below are the essential eligibility factors, categorized for clarity.
General Requirements
Criteria
Details
Citizenship
Must be a citizen of an eligible country; many programs focus on international students.
Education Level
Typically requires a completed undergraduate degree for master’s programs and a master’s for PhDs.
Age Limit
Some scholarships have age restrictions, usually for programs like fully funded master's programs in the USA for international students.
Financial Need
Some scholarships are need-based, especially those targeting economically disadvantaged students.
Academic and Language Proficiency
Criteria
Details
Academic Excellence
High GPA and outstanding academic performance are often required for top scholarships in the USA.
Standardized Tests
GRE, GMAT, or equivalent scores may be necessary, especially for fully funded MBA scholarships for international students in the USA.
Language Proficiency
Proficiency in English demonstrated by TOEFL, IELTS, or similar tests for non-native speakers.
Field-Specific Skills
Relevant academic or professional expertise for specialized scholarships like PhD scholarships in the USA.
Extracurricular and Community Engagement
Criteria
Details
Leadership Roles
Demonstrated leadership in school, university, or community organizations.
Volunteer Work
Active participation in community service or social impact projects, especially for top scholarships for international students in the US.
Awards and Recognition
Achievements in extracurricular activities like sports, arts, or academics can strengthen your application.
Alignment with Program Goals
Engagement in activities that align with the mission of the scholarship program (e.g., development or innovation).
Applying for fully funded scholarships in the USA can be a transformative step in your academic journey. From researching opportunities to crafting a compelling application, every step is crucial. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you successfully apply for top scholarships, including those tailored for Indian students and international applicants.
Researching Scholarships
Begin your journey by identifying the right scholarships for your goals. Look for programs that match your academic background, career aspirations, and eligibility criteria.
Steps to Take:
Explore reliable databases and university websites for scholarships in USA, such as the Fulbright Program or fully funded master's programs in the USA for international students.
Search for opportunities tailored to specific needs, like a scholarship to study in the USA for Indian students or funding for PhD programs.
Shortlist scholarships based on funding coverage, eligibility, and deadlines.
Preparing Your Application Package
A complete and well-organized application package increases your chances of securing a scholarship. Focus on ensuring each document meets the specific requirements.
Key Components:
Academic Transcripts: Ensure they are updated and meet the requirements for programs like fully funded MBA scholarships for international students in the USA.
Test Scores: Submit standardized test results (e.g., GRE, GMAT, TOEFL) if required.
Resume/CV: Highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and relevant experience.
Proof of Financial Need: Some scholarships, like need-based scholarships in the USA, may require this documentation.
Writing Strong Personal Statements
A personal statement is your chance to showcase why you deserve the scholarship. It should reflect your academic passion, career goals, and how the scholarship aligns with your aspirations.
Tips for Success:
Clearly state your goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them, especially for programs like fully funded master's programs in the USA.
Highlight your achievements and unique qualities that make you a strong candidate for top scholarships for international students in the US.
Tailor your statement to the specific scholarship, whether it's for an MBA, a PhD, or an undergraduate program.
Securing Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation provide insight into your academic potential and character. Select recommenders who know you well and can write compelling letters.
Steps to Follow:
Choose mentors, professors, or employers familiar with your work.
Share details about the scholarship and your achievements to help them write specific and impactful letters.
For competitive programs like a scholarship to study in the USA for Indian students, ensure the letter emphasizes your academic and professional potential.
Navigating Deadlines and Follow-Ups
Meeting deadlines is critical when applying for scholarships. A well-organized timeline helps you stay on track and ensures a complete application.
Best Practices:
Create a calendar for application deadlines and prioritize submissions for high-value scholarships like fully funded MBA scholarships for international students in the USA.
Follow up with the scholarship committee to confirm receipt of your application.
Track ongoing communication for updates, especially for prestigious programs like the Fulbright or PhD scholarships.
Fully funded scholarships are transformative opportunities for students, especially those pursuing higher education in the USA. They reduce financial stress, provide professional advantages, and enable students to focus entirely on their academic and personal growth.
Covering Tuition and Living Expenses
On average, college students graduate with around $30,000 ( INR 26 lakhs) in student loans, a figure that has increased by 25% over the past decade, according to U.S. News & World Report. Fully funded scholarships minimize this burden by covering tuition and living expenses, ensuring students can pursue their education without accumulating debt.
Post-COVID-19, budget cuts in public colleges and universities have led to rising tuition fees. Scholarships help bridge these gaps, allowing students access to quality education. Unlike students who rely on part-time jobs, scholarship recipients have the freedom to focus fully on their studies, leading to better academic outcomes.
Networking Opportunities
Fully funded scholarships often come with access to exclusive networks of alumni, mentors, and peers, opening up a world of opportunities. Programs like Fulbright and other top scholarships for international students in the US provide recipients with workshops, seminars, and cultural exchange programs that enhance professional growth.
Networking with industry leaders, fellow scholars, and global professionals creates lifelong connections and opportunities, particularly in specialized programs like fully funded MBA scholarships for international students in the USA.
Gaining Global Recognition
Scholarships do more than offer financial support—they enhance a student’s academic profile and global credibility. Merit-based scholarships, which often require a high GPA and strong personal statements, highlight a recipient’s academic and personal excellence.
Such accolades make resumes stand out to future employers. Adding achievements like scholarships in USA or fully funded master's programs for international students to your portfolio signals to employers that you are a high-caliber candidate with proven dedication and leadership potential.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Scholarship Applications
Applying for scholarships can be a transformative opportunity, but even minor mistakes can reduce your chances of success. Avoiding these common errors is crucial to securing scholarships in the USA, whether for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD programs.
Missing Deadlines
One of the most common and preventable mistakes is missing application deadlines. Scholarships, especially competitive ones like fully funded master's programs in the USA for international students, have strict timelines, and late submissions are rarely accepted.
To avoid this:
Create a calendar with all scholarship deadlines and set reminders.
Submit applications early to avoid technical issues or last-minute errors. Staying organized ensures you don’t miss out on opportunities like a scholarship to study in the USA for Indian students or programs like the Fulbright.
Submitting Incomplete Applications
An incomplete application can instantly disqualify you from consideration. Missing documents, such as transcripts or letters of recommendation, can be a costly oversight.
To prevent this:
Carefully review each scholarship’s requirements and use a checklist to ensure all materials are included.
Double-check that all forms are filled out correctly and completely before submission. Scholarships like fully funded MBA scholarships for international students in the USA often have detailed documentation requirements, so thorough preparation is key.
Overlooking Scholarship-Specific Guidelines
Not tailoring your application to the specific scholarship requirements is another common mistake. Generic applications or ignoring instructions can hurt your chances, even if you are otherwise qualified.
To avoid this:
Read the scholarship guidelines carefully and follow instructions, such as essay prompts or formatting rules.
Highlight how your background aligns with the scholarship’s mission or focus, whether for top scholarships for international students in the US or need-based funding programs.
Neglecting the Personal Statement
A poorly written or rushed personal statement can undermine an otherwise strong application. This is your opportunity to showcase your personality, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.
To excel:
Craft a compelling narrative that demonstrates your academic achievements, leadership potential, and alignment with the scholarship’s objectives.
For programs like how to get a full scholarship for PhD in USA, emphasize your research aspirations and contributions to the field.
Edit and proofread multiple times to ensure clarity and impact.
If you're looking for opportunities to study in Australia, you can also read Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia for a detailed guide on available programs and application processes.
Smart Ways to Reduce Study Abroad Costs Beyond Scholarships
Look, scholarships are great, but they come with strict eligibility criteria, and not everyone qualifies. So, what if you don’t fit the criteria for a scholarship? Does that mean you can’t achieve your dream of studying abroad? Absolutely not!
Here’s the good news: there are alternative ways to reduce your study abroad costs. One of the best options is through SUNY universities. By taking advantage of their programs, you can access scholarships more easily and benefit from a range of cost-saving opportunities. Here’s how SUNY makes it possible:
Customized Study Programs
Customized study programs offered by SUNY colleges allow you to save significant costs by starting your education in India and later transferring to top universities in the USA. This approach not only helps reduce the cost of tuition during your initial years but also ensures you get the same quality education when you transition to a US university.
These programs are designed to provide flexibility and a smooth transition while helping you cut down on unnecessary expenses. This option is ideal for students looking to balance affordability with global education goals.
Collaboration with Top US Universities
SUNY colleges collaborate with some of the best universities in the USA, including Ivy League institutions, to provide seamless transfer options for students. These partnerships ensure that you gain access to top-notch education without having to bear the high costs from day one.
By starting your education at a SUNY college, you set yourself up for success while enjoying significant cost savings. This collaboration bridges the gap between affordability and academic excellence, making it easier to achieve your study abroad dreams.
Expert Guidance
Navigating the complexities of studying abroad can be challenging, but SUNY’s expert counselors make it easier. From personalized guidance on scholarships to crafting impactful SOPs and understanding the admission process, they ensure you don’t miss any opportunity to save costs or enhance your application.
Whether you’re aiming for scholarships in the USA or seeking help with a scholarship to study in the USA for Indian students, their tailored support ensures you’re on the right track to success. You can also connect with our expert academic counselors here for personalized guidance on scholarships, SOPs, and the admission process to achieve your study abroad goals.
Cost-Efficient Transition
One of the most attractive aspects of SUNY programs is the ability to save up to ₹50 lakh by completing your first-year credits in India. By reducing your initial tuition and living expenses, the State University of New York Bachelor's Year 1 Program allows you to focus on your academic journey without the stress of mounting financial pressure.
Once you’ve completed your initial coursework, you can transition seamlessly to a US university and enjoy the full benefits of an international education. By choosing SUNY, you not only make studying in the USA affordable but also gain access to high-quality education and world-class opportunities.
Fully funded scholarships in the USA open doors for international students to achieve their academic goals without the stress of financial constraints. They offer a chance to study at top institutions, explore innovative fields, and gain valuable global exposure.For aspiring students in fields like Computer Engineering, these scholarships offer a chance to pursue their dreams at prestigious institutions without worrying about the cost.
As the great Nelson Mandela once said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." Fully funded scholarships empower talented individuals to unlock their potential and make a meaningful impact.
If you’re interested in pursuing Computer Engineering (BS) at Binghamton University one of the most prestigious SUNY colleges, this program offers you a unique mix of theoretical foundations and practical applications to address real-world challenges. With advanced resources, mentorship, and a comprehensive curriculum, Binghamton University is the perfect place to kickstart your journey in computer engineering.
Don’t let financial constraints hold you back. Download the brochure for Binghamton University’s Computer Engineering (BS) program and take the first step toward a brighter future today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How to get a fully funded scholarship in the USA for international students?
To secure a fully funded scholarship in the USA, research opportunities like the Fulbright Program, Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, and university-specific scholarships. Maintain a strong academic record, craft compelling personal statements, and prepare for standardized tests like GRE, GMAT, or TOEFL/IELTS.
2. Can I get a 100% scholarship in the USA?
Yes, many institutions offer 100% scholarships covering tuition and living expenses. Programs like the Gates Scholarship, Yale University Scholarships, and Harvard College Scholarships are excellent options for international students.
3. Can international students get full scholarships in USA?
Absolutely! Scholarships like the Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program provide full funding for international students, covering tuition, stipends, and other costs.
4. Which scholarship is fully funded in the US for international students 2024 without IELTS?
The Fulbright Program and some university-specific scholarships waive IELTS requirements if students provide proof of prior education in English or alternate language proficiency certifications.
5. What GPA is required for fully funded scholarships in the USA?
Most fully funded scholarships require a GPA of at least 3.0–3.5 on a 4.0 scale. Merit-based scholarships may demand even higher GPAs, so academic excellence is crucial.
6. Are there scholarships in the USA specifically for Indian students?
Yes, scholarships like the Tata Scholarship at Cornell University and need-based aid at universities like Harvard and Yale are tailored for Indian students.
7. Can I get a fully funded MBA scholarship as an international student in the USA?
Yes, programs like the Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford and the Harvard Business School MBA Scholarship offer full funding for MBA students.
8. Are fully funded scholarships in the USA available for undergraduate programs?
Scholarships like the Gates Scholarship, Yale University Scholarships, and Onsi Sawiris Scholarship offer full funding for undergraduate students.
9. Do I need work experience for fully funded scholarships in the USA?
Work experience is not mandatory for all scholarships, but programs like MBA scholarships may prefer candidates with professional experience.
10. Can I apply for a fully funded scholarship without GRE/GMAT in the USA?
Yes, some programs, including the Fulbright Program, waive GRE/GMAT requirements depending on the institution or course.
11. Are there scholarships in the USA without an application fee?
Yes, some universities and programs waive application fees for scholarships. Always check specific program requirements before applying.
With over a decade of expertise in international education, Jyotsna has held impactful roles at the British Council, Unilodgers, a prominent UK university, and IDP Education, empowering countless students by not only enhancing their educational experiences but also by offering them guidance in securing essential scholarships and financial aid. She is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals through tailored guidance and financial support.
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